Looking for some info from those who have or had one of the french flatheads. I've enclosed some pics of the French starter that came on my flatty alongside an original Ford starter which shows the overall length to be about 3 inches shorter. You can also see that the french starter has 2 "ears" that attach the starter to the bell housing whereas the original Ford starter fastens with 2 long bolts that go thru the starter into the block. My question to all of you French flatty owners is this: Did your engine come with the same starter I've got? If not, I'd like to find one of the shorter units that is the same size as the stock Ford starter. The reason I need this shorter unit is that when I try to install my right center dump header it hits the french starter. PLEASE don't suggest using the stock Ford unit. Been down that road & there are too many headaches involved when it comes to finding parts, etc. Besides, I've already had the French starter converted to 12 volts. If I don't get this problem solved in the next few weeks my only recourse will be to cut the header and extend the tubes an inch so I can get this "show on the road." ANY help will be greatly appreciated!
Why dont you change the oilpan? An American Ford oilpan will solve you problem. I have a German Flathead, that has a similar starter problem (To big Bosch starter). But since the Oilpan is Aluminium i had it converted to use an US starter. Still need to cut a hole for the flywheel
i have center dump headers too and they hit with my new powermaster starter...i think to put a ford starter
As said, use the powermaster, But you need to know that the diameter in the pan is abit larger then the diameter on the Powermaster. We solved this by making a aluminium sleeve the starter. You also need to drill and tapper two new holes. I'm gona miss the original Ford starter, The sound when you crank it is priceless! ................................ Taildragger&fenderless
It appears there are various types of starters for the French flatheads around. I was able to use the standard German flathead 6 Volt Bosch starter on my French flattie with rear sump alloy oil pan without any problems. My French 24 Volt starters looks completely different to yours, more like the ordinary black Ford unit with two long bolt thru the housing on your picture.
If you know of anyone needing a french flatty starter I have one that has already been convertd to 12 volt that I'll take $25.00 for + shp
Hi memoree maker, i need a 12v starter for my french flathead! If you still have one please contact me! matthiasoehmichen@gmail.com
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