Flathead with 4.5" crank stroke

[AndrewB]

I had this thread all typed out then this site when down. Anyway, I'm new to flatheads and I'm building an 8BA for a 42' Ford Truck. My next project is a Flathead powered FED. I'm currently looking at all possible speed parts available. I will be going with a Norden 180degree crank, which is available in strokes up to 4.5". Ross will make pistons for this stroke and I'm wondering if I should go with it or a shorter stroke. With a 4.5" stroke, what other "custom" parts or modification will need to be made to support a stroke of this length. I'd like to start out with an alcohol injected setup and maybe someday add a supercharger.

Yes, I'm a Flathead newbie so feel free to set me straight if so inclined.

Thanks,

Andrew

[Flathead4d]

I would suggest you do some serious research on flatheads before get involved in such a major project. Flatheads are not cheap to build, especially hopped up ones. Very few people running a 4.5" cranks. Check out the HAMB at jalopyjournal.com and post your question there. There are a lot of old time flatheaders there that can give you advise. Will save you a lot of time, money and trial and error. I've been fooling with flatheads since 1955 and these guys have forgotten more than I will ever know.

[AndrewB]

I agree Flathead4d and I'm doing my research. I know all to well the cost of building a Flathead. I've spent $1800 just to get a good block out of the machine shop and that's just going into my truck as a daily driver. I've spent another $1000 on engines that I've torn down just to find out they're cracked after being magnafluxed.

This isn't something I'll just jumping into and plan on throwing money at, which I don't have to begin with, but a long term project. I guess I was just doing a little fishing here to see what others have to say.

Oh, I've been kicked off of the HAMB at for using the term rat rod.

AndrewB

[Flathead4d]

WOW! Kicked off the HAMB for using the term RAT ROD? What's that all about? They tolerate some pretty coarse language there among other things but find the term RAT ROD offensive? Oh well that just sounds stupid to me. Anyway, check out Joe Abbins book on building the famous flathead. Lots of good info there. John

[AndrewB]

I've picked up a few books on building flatheads, which had some usefull information, but not much. I liked how they demonstrated disassembling and engine. Man, if I could find one that came apart as easy as the one they had I'd be in heaven.

There are about 5 other books that look interesting and will add those to my library.

AndrewB