To keep my flathead or not?
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New User
Joined: Jun 2005
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To keep my flathead or not?
I own a 57 Ford Truck with a flathead. The engine needs work and I am undecided about whether to replace it or not. My goal is to fix the truck up and sell it. I enjoy piddling on older cars and trucks so I guess I need advice on which would help it sell best, a different engine or the flathead. It would seem to me that unless I restore the entire truck to original, the flathead would not be something most kids or adults would want in their vehicle simply because of parts and maintenance. Any advice from others who have done this or would consider buying a truck would be appreciated.
Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 3,730
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From: Waynesville, OH
Can you give us a little more info on the truck? A little history, or better yet, the VIN so we can get a good idea what you are working with.
As merc mentioned, if you do have a 1957 and it has the flathead in it, the engine is a transplant.
As merc mentioned, if you do have a 1957 and it has the flathead in it, the engine is a transplant.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 7,493
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From: Erie, pa
Flatheads are absolutly no use what-so-ever. I am making it my lifes goal to rid the world of these engines by collecting as many of them as I can and thereby removing the temptation from others. If you would like to help support my efforts please let me know and I will send you information on where to ship it to. 
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 27,294
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From: NM
...so you have a Y-block, or it did when it was made. Personal opinion, I'd be amazed if you could actually make money fixing it up and selling it unless you got it at a rock-bottom price, and it only needed minor repairs to make it run perfectly, the body was already cherry, etc.
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Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2000
Posts: 3,730
Likes: 13
From: Waynesville, OH
I agree with Ross. It would probably be hard to recover any money you put into the truck to get the engine situation fixed properly unless it's something fairly minor. Might be best to try to sell it as-is since most folks who buy these trucks are going to fiddle around themselves anyway. You might find someone that needs the rest of the truck and already has an old Y-block or another engine.
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Thread Starter
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New User
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Well, I learned several things today. How VIN# help one determine information about a vehicle, to check more thoroughly on what I am buying (although I only paid 800). Thanks for each of your observations. I'll try to sell it like it is and do a better job next time of what I choose.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 27,294
Likes: 1,055
From: NM
There's certainly nothing wrong with a Y-block. Is the body in good shape? Most importantly, do you like the truck? These old trucks aren't money-makers, but they're a lot of fun! Maybe it isn't what you thought, but that doesn't mean it isn't a keeper, all depends on what you like. If you only paid $800, and it doesn't need much to be on the road, in safe running condition (if not a beauty queen), why not give it a shot? The experience might be worth it if nothing else.
