32 flathead build

32Gnu

32Gnu

Senior Member
Here is my dlilema..

My father died last year, he left his 32 3w basket case to me.. He owned it since 1955, took the big block olds out of it and had put a 59a 8ba motor in it. I took the motor apart and the block is split open in 3 different places where it froze.

My question is if I am going to find another block what do I need to be careful of and what is the best block to build? I want it for the street and cruizing around but I also want it to be 50's old school like he had it back in the day. I have 2 sons that will own this car someday and I dont want to screw it up... If it was a Ch*vy I would have no problem, but this is a different beast.

There is a machine shop near me that knows a lot about flatheads and is well respected.. he has me on the right track as far as internals but I am more concerned about a good heads ignition and multi carb setup.. Really cant afford to trial and error on this..

I appreciate any info/guidance... Tom
 
You'll have many different opinions on this one. I'm most familiar with the late model motors, so I like them and am comfortable with them. Some of the other guys can tell you what the most common flat motor was in coupes in the 50's. I don't know if they they had the latest motor or olders. Stick with a good shop, and take your time finding a motor to start with. Lot's of crud out there, and a few bad folks to take your money. Lot's of good folks on here that will guide you to the right stuff and some great parts available here new and used. Good luck Hugh
 
JWL here on the 'Barn has a book out on flatties and so does Ol'Ron - you should read both as they will give you a whole different outlook as to internals, hopups, etc.

I do believe most guys like the 8BA styled block more than the 59AB and I'm assuming the parts and such off of the cracked 59AB are useless to you as well.

As far as blocks are concerned, if you have the pocketbook you can get a French block here - http://www.socalsac.com/ - it will save you alot of time and aggravation in finding a good block. I have one I bought years ago and it is a real beefy block but pricey. It is a hybrid in that it has an 8BA top and front, 59AB bottom and rear so it may suit your application very nicely. Mine is a stock bore w/4" crank, Elgin cam , 2 deuces, Pertronix ignition, for a 255 cube with probably 110 HP give or take.

Keep us posted on your progress - many folks here willing to help.

How 'bout some pics of the car?
 
French block too pricey for me... at this point any how..
Just found some cool parts in my Dads garage. when i get back home I will put up some pics... Also found an album with 100+ pics from the 50's.. very cool.. my old man was a true hot rodder.. I will try and figure out how to scan and post.. any ideas?
 
I would use a 59A block with the parts you have. I'd stick with the front mounted distributor as it gives you room to use a mechanical fan. I would also stick with a generator. As far as heads, if you are on a budget, I'd use painted cast heads with chrome acorn nuts. Makes for a good looker. If you want multi carbs, stick with two 2s. Can't wait to see your pictures. If you are anywhere near Wisconsin, I have good blocks available.
 
maybe the photos will give you an idea what flathead to use, etc....and transmission might be another reason to get one engine or another.....figure out what you have, then you can figure out what you need....would love to see some pics....Mike
 
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