Flathead water ports

Ok I must admit I'm a die hard GM small block guy, but I think nothings cooler in a vintage ride than a flathead engine. Not that I know a whole lot about them really I just think they're cool and sound great. Which brings us to my question; I've noticed that some flatties have the water outlets in the top of the middle of the heads and others are on the front of the heads. What am I looking at? Is one better than the other? Ford vs Merc? Offy vs Edelbrock? Please get me all knowed up.

 

'48 and older the outlets were in the centre. (except very early models)
'49 and over they were at the front.

 

Water necks in center of heads are pre-49, favorites are 59A or 59AB, 46-48, 239 cid. 37 engines have 21 stud heads, 38-48 24 studs.
Thermostat housing/water necks in front of heads are 49-53 Cars or 48-53 pickups, commonly called 8BA(Ford, 239 cid) or 8CM(Mercury, 255 cid, 4" crank, yes, the legend).) 49-53 engines use head bolts rather than studs/nuts.

 

I feel the 59A heads look better, so I have them on my 8BA. No, it is not a bolt on, some extra work required. The 8BA has a bolt on bell housing, the 59 A and older has about four inches of bell housing cast on the block.

 

Also, '32-36, front pumps on heads, front outlets direct from pumps.

 

www.fordbarn.com is an EXCELLENT flathead site with folks who know flattys. You will get all your questions answered.