Although not the first V-8 engine ever produced, Henry Ford's side-valve V-8, launched in 1932, certainly qualified as the first mass-produced V-8 sold to the public. Because of Henry Ford's stubbornness, the first versions were less than ideal. The technology was in its infancy and cost-cutting measures limited the output and reliability of the early models. Over time, however, the "Flattie" became the go-to powerplant for a whole generation of new hobbyists who were called "hot rodders." The engine maintained its position in the hobby well into the 1950s, even when more modern overhead-valve designs started coming out of Detroit. It's hard to overstate the impact that this simple little engine had on a whole generation of enthusiasts. Even today, people choose a flathead for period-correct builds over far more powerful options. The style and sound of a modified flathead is an iconic part of American history. In Ford Flathead Engines: How to Rebuild & Modify, veteran author Tony Thacker and flathead guru of H&H Flatheads, Mike Herman, take you step-by-step through rebuilding a vintage flathead. One of the most important steps is to actually find a good, usable core; many have been sitting for a very long time and the engine design is prone to cracking. Running changes are also an important consideration when selecting a core, and include cooling system, ignition, and transmission mount. After you have selected a core, Thacker and Herman take you through the entire process of a rebuild, including teardown, parts inspection, machine shop processes, replacement part selection, re-assembly, start up, and break-in. Also covered is a unique performance build completed at the H&H shop for legendary race car team manager and all-around enthusiast Ray Evernham. It all adds up to more than 500 color photos and insider tips on building what could be called the most iconic engine ever built, the Ford flathead V-8.

This is a follow-up and companion to the successful How to Build a Flathead Ford V-8. This new edition describes the build-up of a 1946-1948 model 59 engine with a 4-barrel carburetor, a blown French flathead engine, and a blown Ardun engine-designed for street use. Many French flathead engines have been purchased by flathead lovers in the United States. There is a strong demand for those engine blocks, and the purchasers are desperate for any build-up information. The popularity of the Ardun is amazing, and this second volume contains a load of new information about the Ardun, as well as information and photographs of the lastest flathead goodies, such as crankshafts, connecting rods, intake manifolds, and cylinder heads.

Loved by bootleggers and dirt racers, the V-8 is iconic power. Now you can build and restore your very own hotrod, or just enjoy daydreaming.

This handbook is packed with flathead Ford engine building and tuning tips. The book describes proven combinations for both the street and the track. Complete buildups of both normally aspirated and supercharged flatheads are presented with actual results.

Flathead spoken here. From stock rebuilds to high-horsepower modified engines, this book delivers instructions on every facet of rebuilding your flathead V-8. Crystal-clear photos make every step easy to understand and follow, including block reconditioning, new oil seals, manifolds, superchargers and electronic ignitions. Contains essential details on how to install later-model flatheads into early model chassis, plus where to buy parts.

Rebuild and modify your Ford inline six with help from the leading performance builders of these engines, Vintage Inlines! Covering Ford’s small 6-cylinder engine made famous in Falcons, Comets, Mustangs, and many other models from the 1960s and 1970s, this book has everything you need to know from step-by-step rebuilding instructions to performance parts that will set you apart from the rest of the crowd. If this is your first engine build, you’ll be glad to know that every aspect of a complete rebuild is here. Starting with engine removal, you’ll learn all the different steps, including examination, machine work, reassembly, and reinstallation. The mystery is revealed on setting ring gap, checking valve-to-piston clearance, and even degreasing the camshaft for spot-on valve timing! Whether it’s replacing the undersized and outdated 1-barrel carburetor or the original Load-O-Matic distributor, you’ll learn how to get the most from the engine that came as original equipment in literally millions of our favorite Ford vehicles. With the information in this book, you’ll learn how to add a 2-barrel carburetor, electronic ignition, and even a header so you can have the smooth rumble of dual exhaust. Congratulations on your decision to build and modify one of the most popular engines from some of the most popular cars in Ford’s long history with Ford Inline Six: How to Rebuild & Modify!