1953 Ford Flathead V8 bolts !!!

I am rebuilding my 1953 V8 Ford Flathead and when I torn down my engine I notice that they heads had bolts instead of the studs. I would like to install the studs as they had done in the past years will this be a problem to change over. When did Ford changed from the studs to the bolts. Any feedback is appreciated on this subject.

Thanks

Frenchy

 

The head won't care, why don't you want to use the bolts? That change coincided with the 8ba style engine introduction.

 

I think they all had bolts in the flatheads. Studs are an aftermarket thing that alot of racers and hot rodders did. My 8ba had all bolts except a stud on each side. You can get the studs at speedway

 

Uuuh..wait, what? We're talking about FORD flathead v8's here. ALL engines prior to the introduction of the 8ba came from the factory with head STUDS.

 

I wanted to use the studs so that I can also use the solid chrome A corn nuts as I did on my V12 Lincoln motor. I did not want to install the A corn caps on the bolts.

Thanks
Frenchy

 

Ford did use the studs until the late 40's I think as the Lincoln Zephyr did until 1948. Ford had the bolts later in the 40's. I wasn't sure what year they went to the bolts set up. Racers the reason why they use the bolts instead of the studs is probably because it was easier to remove the heads and not having to fight to remove the heads the other way made it easier I am assuming.

Frenchy

 

49-53 Ford V-8's all came from the factory with bolts.

 

studs clamp better, but may have to be "aligned" with a piece of pipe to get the heads on. you slip the pipe over the end of the "bent" stud and use it like a lever to straighten the stud til it's good to go. one other problem with studs is that they can be a real nightmare to remove after a few years of service!

 

Unless your building a 'race horse engine" why use studs? I know the solid acorn nuts may be desirable, but acorn caps really do look pretty good. Plus , it's so much easier to remove the heads.