Flathead question...

I have heard about sonic testing for 30 years, never had it done. Checked around today and kinda got laughed at. More than one person said "That stuff went out with the Flatheads"

Are most 8ba engines safe at .125 over? Is a wall thickness check necessary? I'm sure core shift was an issue, but how bad were they?

Don't get any work done at those shops.
 
I have heard about sonic testing for 30 years, never had it done. Checked around today and kinda got laughed at. More than one person said "That stuff went out with the Flatheads"

Are most 8ba engines safe at .125 over? Is a wall thickness check necessary? I'm sure core shift was an issue, but how bad were they?

Tell those guys who laughed at you to get with the program....flatheads are back in...and flat is where it's at. Then start laughing at them and find someone else to do the work on your engine. As I and others have said boring to 3-5/16" should not be a problem. Git 'er done!
 
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I had mine sonic tested but it is not a 100% unless every spot of the cylinder wall is tested but it does give you a good idea of what you have to work with. I cut up a ruined 8ba engine to see whats inside. The picture below shows some core shift plus a rust pit, Im sure there was areas worse but this just happend to be at the cut line.


picture.php
 
Ok, as stated above, this is NOT a restoration project, so stock engine facts don't really apply to this one. I'm looking for advise on what the logical, streetable bore size would be on an 8ba.

The site is not for restoration info, but anything Flathead Ford V8
 
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