Ford Flathead Engines

Although not the first V-8 engine ever produced, Henry Ford's side-valve V-8, launched in 1932, certainly qualified as the first mass-produced V-8 sold to the public. Because of Henry Ford's stubbornness, the first versions were less than ideal. The technology was in its infancy and cost-cutting measures limited the output and reliability of the early models. Over time, however, the "Flattie" became the go-to powerplant for a whole generation of new hobbyists who were called "hot rodders." The engine maintained its position in the hobby well into the 1950s, even when more modern overhead-valve designs started coming out of Detroit. It's hard to overstate the impact that this simple little engine had on a whole generation of enthusiasts. Even today, people choose a flathead for period-correct builds over far more powerful options. The style and sound of a modified flathead is an iconic part of American history. In Ford Flathead Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify, veteran author Tony Thacker and flathead guru of H&H Flatheads, Mike Herman, take you step-by-step through rebuilding a vintage flathead. One of the most important steps is to actually find a good, usable core; many have been sitting for a very long time and the engine design is prone to cracking. Running changes are also an important consideration when selecting a core, and include cooling system, ignition, and transmission mount. After you have selected a core, Thacker and Herman take you through the entire process of a rebuild, including teardown, parts inspection, machine shop processes, replacement part selection, re-assembly, start up, and break-in. Also covered is a unique performance build completed at the H&H shop for legendary race car team manager and all-around enthusiast Ray Evernham. It all adds up to more than 500 color photos and insider tips on building what could be called the most iconic engine ever built, the Ford flathead V-8.

Loved by bootleggers and dirt racers, the V-8 is iconic power. Now you can build and restore your very own hotrod, or just enjoy daydreaming.

This is a follow-up and companion to the successful How to Build a Flathead Ford V-8. This new edition describes the build-up of a 1946-1948 model 59 engine with a 4-barrel carburetor, a blown French flathead engine, and a blown Ardun engine-designed for street use. Many French flathead engines have been purchased by flathead lovers in the United States. There is a strong demand for those engine blocks, and the purchasers are desperate for any build-up information. The popularity of the Ardun is amazing, and this second volume contains a load of new information about the Ardun, as well as information and photographs of the lastest flathead goodies, such as crankshafts, connecting rods, intake manifolds, and cylinder heads.

This handbook is packed with flathead Ford engine building and tuning tips. The book describes proven combinations for both the street and the track. Complete buildups of both normally aspirated and supercharged flatheads are presented with actual results.

Highlights all models from 1932 to 1953. Comprehensive details on restoration to original, and modifications for hot rodding and high performance use. This is the most thorough book about Ford's famous flatmotor. Get the straight scoop on cooling, carburetion and ignition from technical guru Ron Ceridono. Softbound, 8 1/2" x 11", 202 pages, 352 b&w illustrations, 19 diagrams.

Speed tuning theory and practice, costs, horsepower and torque for all 1932 and later Ford & Mercury Flathead V8s. The performance fundamentals: power, cam, carburetion, compression exhaust and ignition are all covered in this 1951 classic handbook. Details planning the modifications, fitting the block, boring an stroking, flathead and over head-valve cylinder head, scams, pistons, rings, intake manifolds, exhaust headers and special ignitions. A special chapter discusses superchargers.

Flathead spoken here. From stock rebuilds to high-horsepower modified engines, this book delivers instructions on every facet of rebuilding your flathead V-8. Crystal-clear photos make every step easy to understand and follow, including block reconditioning, new oil seals, manifolds, superchargers and electronic ignitions. Contains essential details on how to install later-model flatheads into early model chassis, plus where to buy parts.