1933 vs 1936 v8 flat top differences

[FrankWest]

What are the differences between these two engines.
I remember reading that 1933 had cast in bearing but 1936 had insert bearings. Would not that make the 1936 more desireable.
But for a purist who wants a 1933 car is the 1936 engine almost the same thing but easier to service? Please help.

[barnfind08]

33-early36 blocks were babbit main bearings. late 36 blocks did have insert bearings. Yes they are easier to do and cheaper to do. but those blocks are also more expensive so I consider it a wash. appearances on the outside are the same you just have to have heads that match your pistons that you use.

[Brendan]

I have a 35 motor in my pickup it has flat pistons and heads for domed pistons and it runs good. but I don't have the power I should.

[FrankWest]

Originally Posted by barnfind08

33-early36 blocks were babbit main bearings. late 36 blocks did have insert bearings. Yes they are easier to do and cheaper to do. but those blocks are also more expensive so I consider it a wash. appearances on the outside are the same you just have to have heads that match your pistons that you use.

Can These "babbitt casting bearings" be done in your garage of do they have to be sent to a vendor to achieve properly?

[ford38v8]

Originally Posted by FrankWest

Can These "babbitt casting bearings" be done in your garage of do they have to be sent to a vendor to achieve properly?

There's the problem with babbitt. They have to be sent out, and those capable of pouring babbitt are getting scarce.

[FrankWest]

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Originally Posted by ford38v8

There's the problem with babbitt. They have to be sent out, and those capable of pouring babbitt are getting scarce.

Lookout! Something told me that would be a problem. Thanks.
Is the 36 the first flathead that has insert bearings?

[ford38v8]

Originally Posted by FrankWest

Lookout! Something told me that would be a problem. Thanks.
Is the 36 the first flathead that has insert bearings?

Late '36, yes. These are known as LB blocks, and are indistinguishable from the babbitt blocks unless disassembled for inspection.

To the untrained eye, all Ford 21 stud engines look alike up to and including the LB block. With all the original bolt-ons on place, I'm guessing most V8ers wouldn't be able to tell the difference.