I have a 1940 Buick Super 8 Coupe. I basically got it for free: bought 2 cars, it and a 1974 Convertible Caddy, and after fixing up and selling the Caddy I am back to even. The buick has been sitting for some time and will need to have all the wiring replaced, along with some welding and what-not. So far, I have primed all the cylinders with marvel and after letting it sit for a day or so, tried to turn it over with the starter. It is definitely engaging, but there is no real movement of the engine components. I would like to give the crank a go with a wrench before ***uming the cylinders are seized up, but wanted to get your guys opinion on what should be my next steps. Seems almost impossible to crank by hand without removing the radiator to get to the crank bolt, so as for now, that is what I am planning on. On the other hand, a guy is selling a rebuilt flathead with aluminum heads for a bit less than $2k. I am thinking as cool as it would be to run the old s-8, that even if the straight-8 isn't locked up, it might be too good a deal to p*** up on this Merc flathead (and avoid the gamble that comes with the unknown condition of the s-8). I know the transmission to block mating will be an issue: any other reasons (concerns) that should be coming to mind?
The Buick engine is much better than the flathead. More power faster + no cooling issues but if you really wanted to run a flatty you could probably get an adaptor from Wilcap they make adaptors for everything. Also try dot3 brake fluid to free up you engine It works
I like Flatheads but putting one in a '40 Buick is strictly ****y. The car is heavy and begs for a big engine-either the one that's in it or somethinglike a 401-425-430 Buick V-8. Certainly you can find a better home for the '53 Merc motor. A day or so in the process of unsking an engine is like nothing-you need to exercise patience and stick with the M.M.O. or ATF+acetone.
I would buy the flattie but put nailhead in the Buick. Straight 8 faster than a merc flattie.... doubtful. Cooling problems.... that's a old wives tale. A properly tuned flattie will give you no problems.
49-53 Mercs were most likely every bit as heavy as a 1940 Buick. I doubt there is a big difference performance wise. I agree that this thing deserves a Nailhead or the original S8.
I agree that the flathead would be ****y. I would remove the starter and try to move the fly wheel with a bar.The inline would be a cool engine. PUT THE CAR IN HIGH GEAR AND TRY PULLING THE CAR. Not all engines are stuck because of the piston. I have had distributors rusted that cause the engine to stick and the bell housings full of mice nests.
Thanks for the input guys. I am going to run with finding out more of what is up with the straight-8. I would love to find a good nailhead for it, but at the same time feel that for what I want, the straight-8 would be more practical (with the exception of parts support). @Dale Fairfax: thanks for the "patience" remark, I needed it I'll let you guys know how it goes after I get the radiator out.
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