Flathead vs SBC

Well all I have to say is don't install an engine just to please everyone else. The flatheads were the belly button engines of the 40's and early fifties just like the sbc is the bellybutton engine of this era.

I drive a truck with a small block in it daily, my 48 has a Chev six and I have two flathead Ford V8's and two flathead Ford Sixes along with a Desoto Hemi and two 66 396 Chev engines in the shed so I don't really play favorites. Still I can work on the SBC in my sleep and parts are inexpensive compared to the other engines I have.

Run what you know and what you probably have plenty of pieces stashed away for and then you can decide about maybe building a flathead on the next build.

 

What he said---

 

I totally agree guys.
I`ve had a `46 59a in my `32 roadster for nigh on 30 years now, and it`s never boiled over (it`ll idle all day long and never go over 190) or leaked one ounce of any kind of fluid. It`s totaly dependable in traffic and still runs 14.8s.

If your motor does boil over or leak, you `aint built it right...

 

These kind of threads always seem to create a s#!t storm. Both powerplants are iconic. You should go with whatever engine YOU want. Build it within your budget and drive the hell out of it. Who cares what others opinions are? Life is too short.

 

Have to agree there "coupemerc" ............ but `aint flatties pretty ...

 

"SBC type cars"........

 

Thanks for all the replies to my thread. You have given me the info I need to make the right decision for me.

Thanks again!

 

Just a description......those are cool too.