Most classic Ford enthusiasts have heard of the Ford flathead V8, but many people do not know much about this durable power plant from the past. You can rebuild and restore this classic V8 with vintage Ford car parts from sources like Concours Parts & Accessories. Here are some reasons to consider a classic Ford with a flathead V8 engine for your restoration pleasure.
What is a Flathead?
Most V type engine today have overhead valves placed in the engine head and require different vintage Ford car parts than flatheads. The head fits on top of the engine block, covering the cylinders. However, a flathead engine has the valves in the block. They are to the side as opposed to overtop the cylinders.
Flathead spark plugs fit directly into the top of the head. This is a feature most people immediately notice when looking at a flathead V8 engine. This design is simple yet practical. It was a cost-effective way to mass- manufacture motors and one of the reasons the flathead V8 was in production from 1935 until 1953.
Advantages
The flathead V8 is compact and takes up little space. Its simple design makes it light in weight too. It does not make a lot of noise when running and maintenance is simple. For example, it is easy to get to many vintage Ford car parts like spark plugs, distributor cap, and ignition coil. Because the valves are to the side, if one were to seize up, there is no damage to the piston.
Disadvantages
Flatheads have low compression. This makes them less efficient than overhead valve motors. Fuel is not completely burned, and they create a lot of carbon emissions. This design does not work for diesel motors. However, if you want an original engine in your pre-1954 classic Ford, the V8 flathead is designed to serve you well.
