March 31, 1932 – Ford introduces the Flathead V8 The Ford Flathead V8 was unveiled to the general public on this day in 1932. While the V8 itself was not new, the way that Ford manufactured it, as a single cast block, and made it affordable to the m***es in the Ford Model 18 was, and it ushered private motoring into a new era. Having long produced a four banger for the Model T and its variants, it is said that Ford first tried to build a 6 cylinder engine to compete with Chevrolet, but numerous problems brought the project to a halt. Henry Ford then pushed development of an affordable V8, framing Ford as an industry leader, not a follower. While the Flathead and a standard 4 cylinder would carry Ford through the 1930s, the company finally introduced a six cylinder engine in 1941, 35 years after the last serious attempt at creating this style of motor. That first six was outfitted to the Model K, which debuted in 1906. While many historians believe the Model K was a poor seller for Ford, it was quite the contrary. In 1907 some 500 Model K’s were sold, making it the highest selling six cylinder in the world at the time. The profits made from the K helped Ford develop the four cylinder Model T, which was introduced in 1908 and largely unchanged through 1927. Above: 1932 Ford V8. By Joe Ross CC2.0 Top: 1932 Ford V8 Cabriolet by Riley CC2.0 The original Ford Flathead was a 221cu in (3.6l) that produced 65 horsepower. After five production variations, the final Ford Flatheads were produced in 1954. Today the engines remain a favorite of hotrodders.
Happy birthday FLATHEAD! Totally been with flatheads—-am 72 years young—have had over 10 early Ford cars all flathead powered over 55 plus years and loved them all. One of the prettiest motors ever built especially with finned aluminum heads and multiple carbs with pretty good low end torque. I am a “horsepower” nut and enjoy the challenges of making close to double the h.p. Of a “stocker”. I have studied,read about others, and enjoy strong,well built Ford power for my Early Ford transporters. I have owned over 30 sets of hot rod heads and 40-50 intakes. I feel confident enuf to p*** on my knowledge to others requesting such knowledge. I am retired with time to “help” Others with similar tastes.Call flatheadJohn in s. Texas if you need help.979-595-7324 cell. My current rides are a Henry 32 cabriolet hiboy that has run 80 mph in the 1/8 and a second English Ford(Prefect)vintage 1947. My 32 is driven almost daily and I enjoy showing off the flathead to others. Flatheads Forever!
I made the 75th celebration in Dearborn. Seems like a long time ago now. Ford did an excellent job for the celebration. It’s amazing how an old outdated engine has survived and remained popular for 88yrs.
Here's another video I found strictly about the engine itself. I couldn't seem to find it on YouTube so I hope the link works. https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=231846061347742
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