My Dad recently passed away and we have a "few" flathead motor blocks, heads etc to sell. Is there an easy way to identify what year they are? Any other suggestions as to how to know what they came out of? Thanks so much. Blessings for a great day. Sue
Sincerest condolences for your loss. Flathead blocks , up to 1948, (59A) will have a upper half "bellhousing" as part of the block casting. Blocks from 1949 thru 1953 (8BA) do not have that bellhousing extension. Cranks from '49 thru '53 have 2 oil passages on each crank throw. Cranks for 59A engines have one oil passage per crank throw. Heads from 49 thru 53 have water outlets located at the top front corner. Heads for the 59A have the water outlets located at the top, at the center of the heads. There other, subtle differences, but those are the basics. I hope that helps.... 4TTRUK
49-53 also have the distributor at the front of R.H head..48 and earlier has distributor on front between the water pumps
The Jalopy Journal
