59 a b swap for 8ba

[ZOLTAR]

My 59 AV in my 35 has 1 piston it doesn't move probably broken Rod or something. I do have a running 8ba on a stand looks like they should swap easily any thoughts thanks

 

[19Fordy]

Tempting but it's easier and cheaper to replace the original with another original.
When installing the 8BA cooling fan placement and radiator is a problem.

I know there are a few folks on Fordbarn who have installed an 8BA in 36 Ford so they may be able to provide more info. I think 35 and 36 are almost the same.

Contact some of the folks in this post.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=249163&highlight=1936+ford+engine+swap

 

[JSeery]

For starters you will need an adaptor/bellhouse shell to mate the 8ba to the transmission. You will need the starter plate that goes with it as well. There is a document that shows the different combinations, but for some reason I can't get it to upload.

I'm not a very good source on 8ba engines, but believe you could covert it over to use most of your current 59a parts. Such as water pumps, front timing cover, distributor, even the heads and intake manifold. There are some minor modifications required but none of them are a big deal.

 

[Aarongriffey]

The bolt on bell housing from a pickup 53 and older or 49 to 51 Mercury will mate the 8ba to the 32 through 48 transmission.
You’ll need 48-52 V8 pickup water pumps.

 

[JSeery]

VanPlet is a source of a lot of good information. http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/flathead_trans-adapters.htm

 

[19Fordy]

j Seery is correct. A friend of mine has an 8Ba with the front distributor and early style heads in his 40. I believe you have to change the 8BA cam to the earlier style for the front mounted dist.