1 3/8 size is the crank ratchet nut use on the engines through 1938 with short crank, all '39-53 uses would normally be the 1 1/8. Deep and fairly thin socket is needed on the '39-48 types with deep recess pulleys. Most sockets have fairly shallow 12 point section and so only partially engage the hex because of interference with the crank fingers in the round section of the socket, but so far for me this shallow engagement has been sufficient. A socket with a deep hex would be great, but so far I haven't found one.
Pretty sure the '49-53 bolt is 7/8 head. It should work on all the earlier motors if crank isn't needed...you can always call AAA for a dead battery, like a soccer mom...