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.

Speed tuning theory and practice, costs, horsepower and torque for all 1932 and later Ford & Mercury Flathead V8s. The performance fundamentals: power, cam, carburetion, compression exhaust and ignition are all covered in this 1951 classic handbook. Details planning the modifications, fitting the block, boring an stroking, flathead and over head-valve cylinder head, scams, pistons, rings, intake manifolds, exhaust headers and special ignitions. A special chapter discusses superchargers.

How to tune the Flathead Ford V8 engine using a range of combinations to achieve realistic horsepower figures. Assists the reader to gain positive results from their own engine. The book dispels a few myths and rumors along the way. Includes dyno verified results of tuning modifications, with illustrative charts.Chapters are dedicated to: 1. The benefits of tuning2. Carburetors3. Ignitions4. Electronic fuel injection5. Valve timing6. The ultimate challenge (Mike's next step in race development of his engines.)7. New products. - Full color throughout- World renowned author who has specialized solely in research and development of the Flathead Ford engine with two previous best selling Flathead books; "Flathead Fever" and "How to Build the High Performance Street Flathead", already in print- The author describes a range of Flathead engine combinations that achieve realistic horsepower figures that will assist the reader in achieving their own positive results- Dyno verified results of tuning modifications with illustrative charts.- Clear color photos used to illustrate parts and combinations used.

This revised and updated color edition of How to Rebuild the Small-Block Ford walks you step by step through a rebuild, including: planning your rebuild, disassembly and inspection, choosing the right parts, machine work, assembling your engine, and first firing and break-in.