1941 ford flathead in Model A

C

CrookedNail

New member
Hello

I was just wondering if the stock diffrential of a Model A can handle a 1941 ford flathead v8?

Also found a 1946 rear end on craigslist if the stock diff can't handle it.
Something special I have to look at when going to either one ofvthe options? This would be the first time doing this.

Thank you
 
I have the stock Model A differential with an 8BA in my av8 and it works fine. Many say it will not hold up but it's heavier duty than a lot of people realize. I've put several thousand miles on it but I don't do burn outs or bang shifts. If you drive it smoothly it will be fine. The other original Model A component that works very well is the radiator with modified inlets and outlets. Everybody says it can't be done but my car has never overheated or run hot and I've been out in high 90's during the summer.
 
The later diff is too wide, but nothing wrong with the A diff. In fact there is a mod that can be done to an A diff that enables it to be subjected to heavier use. It involves inserting a bronze stud in to the housing that sits a couple of thou from the crown wheel. It stops the crown wheel trying to climb up over the pinion when a lot of torque is applied.
 
Bassman/NZ said:
The later diff is too wide, but nothing wrong with the A diff. In fact there is a mod that can be done to an A diff that enables it to be subjected to heavier use. It involves inserting a bronze stud in to the housing that sits a couple of thou from the crown wheel. It stops the crown wheel trying to climb up over the pinion when a lot of torque is applied.
Click to expand...

Thats a good one I have never heard of that one before, the bronze stud would have to be made out of phosphorus- bronze and what part of the housing would you fit the stud too. The crown wheel has a taper roller bearing each side that should support it if it is set up right.
 
With no bearing on the end of the pinion, it is the gear that would try to move from too much torque on a Model A/B diff in my opinion, not the ring or "crown" gear.
 
That stud idea is used on strange competition near ends.
Man I should not be reading these posts,I will have the engine out of my A next week to fit a new burlington crank,I also have a 33 engine on the shelf with all new stuff in .Hmmm.
Lawrie
 
There are several A's running around with 59A, 8BA etc with stock A rear.

I run a stock 265 with my stock 4 banger rear in my '32 pickup.
 
My 32 has the early style rear - which is the same basic design as a Model A. These rears will work fine as long as you don't abuse them with bang shifting, burnouts, etc..

For this reason (I do want to put some abuse to it!), I will be replacing it with a late 32 - 34 style rear (which has the pinion support). It will have a LOT of work done to it (Columbia, etc) - but it will still be a weak link if I beat on it . . . so I'll "try to be nice". :)
 
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