upgrading 31 Model A to V-8 ??

Tom Bellfoy

Tom Bellfoy

Senior Member
Hello I'm new to the forum, been lurking for quite a while. I'm considering installing a V-8 flathead in my 1931 Model A truck. I have a bunch of questions on upgrading brakes and rear end but first I would like to know if this is the correct forum to post this. thanks
 
I was reading the rules for the HAMB but since I'm not building a hot rod , I interpreted that the HAMB is not the place to ask these questions
 
The Bishop tardel book is a pretty goo place to start. It's called how to build a traditional ford hot rod. I don't know why this could not be the place. People made many mods to their model a's. weather it be to keep them on the road. Or for work or fun.
 
The V8 engine and trans will bolt to your rear end 's torque tube, but you will have to do some fabrication of engine mounts, transmission mounts, find someplace to mount the pedals, and convert the radiator to match the V8 water hoses. Not a hard conversion, and has been done a gazillion times over the decades. Take Pete's offer to talk to him in private messages, he's pretty helpful. And most of us are interested in flathead Ford V8 engines even if they're in other cars.
 
Pete said:
No matter where you go you will probably get crap from the self appointed net cops.
Here is a website that has a bunch of good guys that can help you.
http://www.roddingroundtable.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=1&sid=c5f0ec720edee89a0b2b4846f923098d

If you need more info, pm me. I have put flathead V8's in many A's.
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I would also say that this place is just fine. Several AV8's here, and if it's 'flathead', why not here? ... Let's see... steering interference (or, another steering), some way to hold the bones or split, 39-type trans (probably), leave A rearend alone, brakes - your call, radiator, couple motor mounts, a trans mount, pedals. I like the idea of Tardal / Bishop book. You don't have to exactly follow the recipe, but it identifies the stuff you will need to address. JMO
And, just for the record, what is a 32, anyway? It's just a Model A with a V8. JMO :)
 
Av8"s(with flatheads) started long before the HAMB and FordBarn.
And are they not here because of those with a passion+vision?
 
I think there are guys that have both, stock and hot rods on here, myself being one. The roadster has 53 f-100 drum brakes on the front and bronco on the rear.The truck is more modern with GM disk and 10 bolt rear, they both stop equally well.
The newer drum brakes bolt right on the earlier spindles and are self energizing,
plenty of brake for an "A". Good luck Chuck S.
 

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To say this is the wrong place for this type of modification, would eliminate 90% of the readers. It's like going to church and told you can't pray and Bubba would have to find another job.
 
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The traditional catagory on the HAMB will recieve your inquiries well. Individual components service questions that you will have should be answered here.
 
You mention you have a truck. Is this a pickup or an AA truck? I don't recall too many folks puting a V8 in an AA truck on either forum.
 
I have gotten my best advice on the Barn for flathead rebuilding and modifcation. It also has been my best source for building my 51 f1, 39 pickup, 40 panel and the AV8 I am building now. I lurk and search on the HAMB but avoid posting because of the smart a** responses. I think they have smelled out that I am a senior citizen.
Pete
 
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