I have a chance to pick up what I believe is a 50' or 51' merc flathead that is complete but not running. I was thinking about building it for my roadster but I have no idea what parts or what combo of stuff to get to make a reliable fun driver out of her. Can anyone help? I plan to drive the car a lot so I don't want anything super exotic so I was thinking edelbrock heads and intake. I am open to all suggestions. Thanks. ~Jeff
I was told that it would cost about 3500 to build a flathead, not sure what all parts/machine work were included in that price though. I am probably going to build one as well but I already have the engine and most of the parts (new) I need to build it. Still hoping it doesn't cost that much but know I won't get the horsepower out of it that I would out of a SBC or SBF. I think they look cool and will be different than what a lot of others are doing
It's the SOUND that does it for me... nothing sounds like that! And, yeah, they look cool as shit too! -ns
Before you decide to build a flathead ford I suggest that you read everything that you can. These engines are not for everybody. They are expensive to build and just finding a good useable block can run into bucks. There is tons of info in the archives in the HAMB. Flathead engines can draw your blood and make you crazy and if you want to go fast think about something else. The HP to dollar ratio sucks.
Nobody runs a flathead for the power! They have enough for a stripped-down A, or a Deuce, as long as you are happy cruising. It's the look and the sound that matter.
Go to the tech archives, sort by title, find all the motor entries, there are several excellent flathead entries there alone. Otherwise, you can try searching for 'flathead', but you'll have years of reading...
Do the flathead. I have built a couple and if you have the info, a local machinist that knows flatties, some time and energy, a few bucks, you can build a sweet little motor for a very reasonable amount. I didn't go with the alum. aftermarket heads, used EAB heads, and dual intake with strombergs, 4" crank, 40+ bore w/merc pistons, headers, smithys, thats about it for me. If you have to go to a shop, and rely on them for the build you will get reamed as often as not. I have been lucky though, have found many good flathead motors and blocks within 100 miles from my house. South Dakota and Nebraska have a lot of them. Good luck, and go for it. Ask questions, buy a few books, read the tech articles here and elsewhere (fordbarn is great too).
Thanks guys. I have a lot of reading ahead of me but it looks like fun. I have a motor guy here local that I completly trust for the machine work and bottom end assembly so thats not an issue. Thanks for the parts info. I will keep you informed. I am still trying to decide between the 348 and a flatty. ~Jeff
Make sure your machinist knows the piston bores are offset from the crank centerline if you have to bore it.
For just a fun driver, you really need little more than a stock rebuild and a cam, followed by whatever shiny stuff you want on top. If by roadster we are talking~2,000 pounds you'll have plenty of snort. Look into A-V8's porting seminar if you want more entertainment... Oh, yes, if using late '49-53 configuration, some sort of non-stock ignition.
Assuming no cracks or disasters, a '50 Merc is a pretty good can of ingredients for a 255 or 276...if in decent shape, you'd have everything except for rebuild parts and speed stuff you'd be buyng new anyway.
find a flathead lover/builder in your area ("your going to need him!") it seems those guys always have an engine or 5 4-sale ready to go. if your block is good trade it in & go home with one all ready to run -- there is a 'flathead guy' a couple blocks up the street here & people bring him cars & engines from all over the place. cool stuff coming & going all the time. -------- find the flathead man in your area he will educate you.
Build the flattie, you'll be glad you did... here's a pic at my first shot of running one in my sedan.
Get smart on the tools particular to a flathead and buy them when you fine 'em. I just scored a KRW valve compressor tool the other day on the 'bay and it is so cool I can hardly stand it. I guess that's what you get excited about when you're old.
The Jalopy Journal
