Flathead Head Gaskets?

Howdy all....Tim here. Well last night I got the head gaskets for my 59A block. The gaskets they sent were the type for the later block. At any rate, I know there are some differences but can they be used? Or should I just order another set and make sure I get the right ones this time? There are a few 8BA blocks at the ranch that could use them I guess. I don't want to bother sending them back which will just wind up being more annoying. Any thoughts? Hey Voodoo? Do you need a set of head gaskets for your Merc block?
Tim
MBL

 

They'll fit and function on the early block, with a bit of extra gasket sticking out in front where the '49 bypass lives.
Some swear by this combo as a cooling secret--the late gaskets force more coolant to the rear of the block, and then up into the head.
Early gaskets (Use postwar 59 type ones, make minor mods on prewar blox to suit re Ford sevice changes) try to force the water from ends of block to travel to middle by hole size variations. I doubt you'll notice much either way.

 

So I could use these...and I am in on a flathead cooling secret by default!? Sweet! I could just trim the edge? Will I be blocking off any water hole; the reason that it diverts more water to one place than another?
Tim
MBL

 

Yes, they will work, and you will not block off any water ports. The front of the later block had a water bypass back to the water pump which yours does not have. You will notice when you put them on that the front of the gasket will be sticking out past the head a bit, no biggy. The water passages are the same in the later blocks except the rears are larger to promote better flow at the back of the engine. THe later gaskets have larger openings which might let more water in the back of the engine, but will probably slowly corrode the water ports back there, but not for about 50-60 yrs
Mike

 

COOL! It seems that the water bypass is only on one side of the later blocks....is that right?
Tim
MBL

 

I had a feeling they would work.

 

Your the best Sinner.....I just wanted to make sure.
Thanks HAMB
Tim
MBL

 

I'll take them if you aren't going to use them. I need a set what with my new heads and everything. More like the 'Devil's Cabin Boy' sinner.

 

I was waiting for a Cabin Boy comment about that. And it didn't have to be me.
Tim
MBL

 

Well if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck...