Flathead V-8
Thread Starter
|
Junior User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 80
Likes: 0
From: Waimalu,Hawaii
Flathead V-8
I know the easy route on my new project,is to install late model running gear. I don't have any running gear in my 35. So I will be buying something. What I was wondering what you guys thoughts were. With today technology,can a 60-70 year old Ford flathead be built. Be dependable and reliable. I am not interested in building a garage show car queen. And trailer cars are not for me. I want to build it to drive local, but if a 1,000 mile rod run comes up. I want to think I have just as much chance to drive in it as one with a later model engine. Its just most things I have had in the past,have been powered by late model V-8s. But I still like the looks and sound of a flathead. I love to have a slightly modified flathead. Whats your input ? Should I forget my thoughts of a flathead V-8 ? Thanks !
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,772
Likes: 551
From: Kalispell, MT
Six years ago when I put my 48 pickup on the road, I made a road trip from nw Montana to eastern Ohio by way of Denver, Wichita and Michigan - approx 3500 miles, then straight back to MT another 2250 miles.
It's been my daily driver since and has made trips to: Lethbridge, AB, Canada; Boise, ID; Spokane WA. So yes, I believe they're reliable and dependable. Keeping up with hwy speeds requires road gears in your rear end and/or transmission. OD is the best, but without it run at least 3.50 gears in the rear.
I run a 51 merc V8 in my 48 F1 pickup, HD 3 spd trans with 9" rear with 3.50:1 gears.
It's been my daily driver since and has made trips to: Lethbridge, AB, Canada; Boise, ID; Spokane WA. So yes, I believe they're reliable and dependable. Keeping up with hwy speeds requires road gears in your rear end and/or transmission. OD is the best, but without it run at least 3.50 gears in the rear.
I run a 51 merc V8 in my 48 F1 pickup, HD 3 spd trans with 9" rear with 3.50:1 gears.
Thread Starter
|
Junior User
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 80
Likes: 0
From: Waimalu,Hawaii
So when you rebuilt your flat head,did you build it back stock. Or did you make changes. I was thinking of using a 50s model flathead also. And being I am not trying for a original,I might go for a od too. Thanks !
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,772
Likes: 551
From: Kalispell, MT
Originally Posted by Magic
So when you rebuilt your flat head,did you build it back stock. Or did you make changes. I was thinking of using a 50s model flathead also. And being I am not trying for a original,I might go for a od too. Thanks !
My engine is stock internally, but has some added external improvements. You can check my gallery to see the mods I've made - I recommend the mods snowking suggested and then some - just for drivability and road speed issues.
When I do rebuild I'll upgrade to a 3/4 cam but I'll stick with the merc crank and EAB heads (52/52 Ford and the highest compression stock heads). I also plan to bore to 3 5/16" - .125 over and an OD tranny would be nice.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
wavetrain75
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
10
Sep 9, 2016 12:54 PM
jreilly57
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
17
Feb 12, 2016 05:18 PM
pezsox
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
12
Nov 7, 2015 09:35 PM
