The Ford Barn

Chris_AAFord · 06-01-2020, 11:55 AM

Hi Fordbarn,

Does anyone know of a good exhaust manifold that’s a rear exit that will fit a 39 ford standard? My current manifold dumps in front of the steering box and I’m looking for something that will be easier to run a dual exhaust.

Thanks,
Chris

tubman · 06-01-2020, 12:10 PM

Fenton cast iron headers is all I can think of. I also think one of the parts vendors (Carpenter?) used to make a repop 8BA police manifold,but I don't think they are available anymore. You could look around for one (or maybe even an original?) though.

Chris_AAFord · 06-01-2020, 12:34 PM

Thanks, let me look around for the police manifolds.

Mr 42 · 06-01-2020, 12:44 PM

Bob Drake Have them.

https://www.bobdrake.com/FordItem.aspx?Item=HR-9431

drolston · 06-01-2020, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr 42

Bob Drake Have them.

https://www.bobdrake.com/FordItem.aspx?Item=HR-9431

That part is listed for 49 - 59 cars. Would they work on a '39. They will fit the engine, but will they work with the earlier steering box and frame?

Mr 42 · 06-01-2020, 01:05 PM

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Quote:

Originally Posted by drolston

That part is listed for 49 - 59 cars. Would they work on a '39. They will fit the engine, but will they work with the earlier steering box and frame?

Well the 8BA is a 49-53 Engine.
I have not used one in a 39 but think will be good candidate.
maybe some know better.

JSeery · 06-01-2020, 02:15 PM

Will isn't this interesting!

From Drake's site:

"These manifolds are the single most effective way to increase horsepower through vastly improved exhaust flow, because the key is changing the stock single-exhaust to dual-exhaust."

JayChicago · 06-01-2020, 02:31 PM

I have a lot to learn. Why to do you scoff at Drakes statement? Doesn't dual exhaust improve delivered horsepower?

alanwoodieman · 06-01-2020, 02:42 PM

I have an original "police" exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe flange is definitely bigger but as far as increasing HP by it self is questionable, exhaust gas flow better YES so maybe better throttle response and cooling

tubman · 06-01-2020, 02:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayChicago

I have a lot to learn. Why to do you scoff at Drakes statement? Doesn't dual exhaust improve delivered horsepower?

By the time the exhaust pulse makes it down from the top of the block through those snaky little passages (with the two center cylinders fighting each other), there's not much you can do to help it get better.

Duals do sound better, though.

40 Deluxe · 06-01-2020, 03:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayChicago

I have a lot to learn. Why to do you scoff at Drakes statement? Doesn't dual exhaust improve delivered horsepower?

From what I've read, the intake tract on a flathead is the limiting factor in gaining horsepower, not the exhaust. Dual exhaust sure sounds a lot better, though!

JSeery · 06-01-2020, 03:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayChicago

I have a lot to learn. Why to do you scoff at Drakes statement? Doesn't dual exhaust improve delivered horsepower?

Dyno tests show minimal hp gains with exhaust modifications on semi-stock engines. The Drake statement is "...the single most effective way to increase horsepower...". That is a false statement. I like headers on a flathead, I like the look, I like the sound, but it is NOT the single most effective way to increase horsepower, not even close.

Mr 42 · 06-01-2020, 03:20 PM

According to the old magazines

Dual exhaust 10 hp
Dual carbs 10-15 hp
High Compression heads 10-15 hp

All is bolton ;-)

Ronnie · 06-01-2020, 03:21 PM

AA Ford needs to buy JWL's book to know why he should spend his money elsewhere on his project.

R

Mr 42 · 06-01-2020, 03:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JSeery

Dyno tests show minimal hp gains with exhaust modifications on semi-stock engines. The Drake statement is "...the single most effective way to increase horsepower...". That is a false statement. I like headers on a flathead, I like the look, I like the sound, but it is NOT the single most effective way to increase horsepower, not even close.

What is the single most effective way then?

JSeery · 06-01-2020, 03:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr 42

What is the single most effective way then?

Compression ratio. Milling the heads. JWL calms almost no HP gains with his dyno test. Flatheads suffer from low compression not exhaust flow.

I'm a big dual exhaust fan, but got to realistic about the expected results.

Chris_AAFord · 06-01-2020, 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ronnie

AA Ford needs to buy JWL's book to know why he should spend his money elsewhere on his project.

R

Or you should read my post...my question has nothing to do with performance.

tubman · 06-01-2020, 04:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr 42

According to the old magazines

Dual exhaust 10 hp
Dual carbs 10-15 hp
High Compression heads 10-15 hp

All is bolton ;-)

That says it all. When we were kids, we'd go through the J.C. Whitney catalog and add up the horsepower gains advertised for each part. We all knew that if we had enough money, we could make a 175 HP flathead easily.

5851a · 06-01-2020, 04:32 PM

I wonder if back in the day the muffler was a restriction so the police manifold would give you 2 mufflers on the car. Police needed to be quiet. Seems like it would be a lot of engineering, must have made a bit of difference.

drolston · 06-01-2020, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr 42

What is the single most effective way then?

Cubic inches, which if the heads remain the same, brings added compression ration as well.

Kube · 06-01-2020, 04:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JayChicago

I have a lot to learn. Why to do you scoff at Drakes statement? Doesn't dual exhaust improve delivered horsepower?

On a stock flathead? Methinks a stock can breathe quite well with a stock exhaust system. Dual exhaust on a stock flathead is for appearance...

51504bat · 06-01-2020, 05:00 PM

Since its an 8ba go with EAB heads.

Chris_AAFord · 06-01-2020, 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drolston

Cubic inches, which if the heads remain the same, brings added compression ration as well.

I bet a turbo or super charge would be the SINGLE best way. A modern part not a back in the day part.

Chris

flatford8 · 06-01-2020, 06:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 51504bat

Since its an 8ba go with EAB heads.

Is it an 8BA?....does a ‘39 exhaust cross over the front like one?...I bought a left manifold from Drake and a right from Shoebox-Central. But it’s a ‘51 with an 8BA. I agree with the dual exhaust is for looks and sound.....and annoying the neighbors when I leave for work in the morning!!!.....Mark

40 Deluxe · 06-01-2020, 07:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 5851a

I wonder if back in the day the muffler was a restriction so the police manifold would give you 2 mufflers on the car. Police needed to be quiet. Seems like it would be a lot of engineering, must have made a bit of difference.

Plus the Ford police package included the 255 cu. in. Mercury engine so maybe the factory engineers figured the stock Ford single exhaust was somewhat restrictive.

Ronnieroadster · 06-01-2020, 08:02 PM

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris_AAFord

I bet a turbo or super charge would be the SINGLE best way. A modern part not a back in the day part.

Chris

Chris that would be the single best way however economy may suffer a bit.

alanwoodieman · 06-01-2020, 08:09 PM

Kube, yes but duals with glasspacks or even straight pipes sound better!!

donald1950 · 06-01-2020, 08:45 PM

here are one i found on Ebay.....

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1932-1936-F...-/402056410662

Chris_AAFord · 06-01-2020, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by donald1950

here are one i found on Ebay.....

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1932-1936-F...-/402056410662

Thanks! That looks pretty good!

RalphM · 06-01-2020, 09:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris_AAFord

I bet a turbo or super charge would be the SINGLE best way. A modern part not a back in the day part.

Chris

Not available back in the day?

tubman · 06-01-2020, 09:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris_AAFord

Thanks! That looks pretty good!

Aren't you looking for a rear exit manifold?

V8COOPMAN · 06-01-2020, 11:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by donald1950

here are one i found on Ebay.....

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1932-1936-F...-/402056410662

C'mon guys! Let's be sure of what we're suggesting that folks should purchase. That eBay unit is a "FRONT" exit manifold for a CROSSOVER pipe! DD

Ol' Ron · 06-02-2020, 05:41 AM

Belond equal flow headers. 40% power gain. Always wanted a set. ???????????

Chris_AAFord · 06-02-2020, 05:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tubman

Aren't you looking for a rear exit manifold?

Thanks good catch!

KGS · 06-02-2020, 06:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris_AAFord

Hi Fordbarn,

Does anyone know of a good exhaust manifold that’s a rear exit that will fit a 39 ford standard? My current manifold dumps in front of the steering box and I’m looking for something that will be easier to run a dual exhaust.

Thanks,
Chris

I have an original Douglas "police" left side manifold used on the '51 and later flatheads. If you can use it, PM me.
Ken

Planojc · 06-02-2020, 07:39 AM

I have Red's headers in my 39 standard with Brockman mellowtone mufflers.

Chris_AAFord · 06-02-2020, 08:28 AM

Would be interesting if we could see a episode of engine masters do a flathead buildup. Maybe we need to start harassing Freiburger.

Gary-UK · 06-02-2020, 09:30 AM

Have a look at the French flathead exhaust manifolds. Exit high up and to the rear. https://www.35pickup.com/FrenchFlathead.html

tubman · 06-02-2020, 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ol' Ron

Belond equal flow headers. 40% power gain. Always wanted a set. ???????????

Belond must have had a much better catalog than J.C. Whitney.

With a 40% increase?

I would too.!

40 Deluxe · 06-02-2020, 06:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris_AAFord

Would be interesting if we could see a episode of engine masters do a flathead buildup. Maybe we need to start harassing Freiburger.

That would be interesting! Open it up to all flathead engines used in automobiles from, say 1920 to 1954. OEM blocks, cranks and heads only. Otherwise, anything goes! Use the Engine Masters scoring system to give a level playing field to determine the winner. Maybe go by horsepower per cubic inch.
Next, which would be overall horsepower king? 308 Hudson? 346 Cadillac? 359 Packard straight 8? Or a 448 Lincoln V12?
Let the games begin!

Newc · 06-02-2020, 10:57 PM

Hi; At one time there were two types of 'Police' LEFT exh manifolds by Drake. '49-51 and another '52/53. I have a new Drake '52/53 for sale {$110} The manifolds do not interchange body yrs well. Newc

deuce lover · 06-03-2020, 03:22 AM

Here is a good pic of the French flathead drivers side.Might be able to get you a set it if that can work for you.Shipping might be costly and need to wait until airspace opens up because of the virus.

tubman · 06-03-2020, 06:31 AM

I put duals on my '36 coupe using a set of Fenton headers. The drivers side points down more than the French exhaust manifold shown, and it was still difficult to get the head pipe around the ('37) steering box. It's been almost 30 years, but it looks to me that the French manifold would be even more difficult to fit. I'm not trying to rain on anyone's parade, but there is a reason that the outlet on the Ford Police manifolds shown is not at the very back end of the manifold.

06-01-2020, 11:55 AM	#1
Chris_AAFord Member Join Date: Nov 2016 Location: FT. Washington, PA Posts: 85	Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Hi Fordbarn, Does anyone know of a good exhaust manifold that’s a rear exit that will fit a 39 ford standard? My current manifold dumps in front of the steering box and I’m looking for something that will be easier to run a dual exhaust. Thanks, Chris

06-01-2020, 12:10 PM	#2
tubman Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Minnesota, Florida Keys Posts: 10,316	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Fenton cast iron headers is all I can think of. I also think one of the parts vendors (Carpenter?) used to make a repop 8BA police manifold,but I don't think they are available anymore. You could look around for one (or maybe even an original?) though.

06-01-2020, 12:34 PM	#3
Chris_AAFord Member Join Date: Nov 2016 Location: FT. Washington, PA Posts: 85	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Thanks, let me look around for the police manifolds.

06-01-2020, 12:44 PM	#4
Mr 42 Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Sweden Posts: 427	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Bob Drake Have them. https://www.bobdrake.com/FordItem.aspx?Item=HR-9431

06-01-2020, 02:15 PM	#7
JSeery Member Emeritus Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Wichita KS Posts: 16,132	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Will isn't this interesting! From Drake's site: "These manifolds are the single most effective way to increase horsepower through vastly improved exhaust flow, because the key is changing the stock single-exhaust to dual-exhaust."

06-01-2020, 02:31 PM	#8
JayChicago Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2019 Location: Chicago Posts: 731	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford I have a lot to learn. Why to do you scoff at Drakes statement? Doesn't dual exhaust improve delivered horsepower?

06-01-2020, 02:42 PM	#9
alanwoodieman Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: upstate SC Posts: 2,963	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford I have an original "police" exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe flange is definitely bigger but as far as increasing HP by it self is questionable, exhaust gas flow better YES so maybe better throttle response and cooling

06-01-2020, 03:20 PM	#13
Mr 42 Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Sweden Posts: 427	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford According to the old magazines Dual exhaust 10 hp Dual carbs 10-15 hp High Compression heads 10-15 hp All is bolton ;-)

06-01-2020, 03:21 PM	#14
Ronnie Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Canada Where it snows Posts: 2,058	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford AA Ford needs to buy JWL's book to know why he should spend his money elsewhere on his project. R

06-01-2020, 04:32 PM	#19
5851a Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2014 Location: NE Iowa Posts: 1,664	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford I wonder if back in the day the muffler was a restriction so the police manifold would give you 2 mufflers on the car. Police needed to be quiet. Seems like it would be a lot of engineering, must have made a bit of difference.

06-01-2020, 05:00 PM	#22
51504bat Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2013 Location: SoCal-Redlands Posts: 3,018	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Since its an 8ba go with EAB heads. __________________ Making the simple complicated for over 30 years.

06-01-2020, 08:09 PM	#27
alanwoodieman Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: upstate SC Posts: 2,963	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Kube, yes but duals with glasspacks or even straight pipes sound better!!

06-01-2020, 08:45 PM	#28
donald1950 Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: san antonio, texas Posts: 461	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford here are one i found on Ebay..... https://www.ebay.com/itm/1932-1936-F...-/402056410662

06-02-2020, 05:41 AM	#33
Ol' Ron Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Chester Vt Posts: 8,860	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Belond equal flow headers. 40% power gain. Always wanted a set. ???????????

06-02-2020, 07:39 AM	#36
Planojc Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Plano, Texas Posts: 844	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford I have Red's headers in my 39 standard with Brockman mellowtone mufflers.

06-02-2020, 08:28 AM	#37
Chris_AAFord Member Join Date: Nov 2016 Location: FT. Washington, PA Posts: 85	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Would be interesting if we could see a episode of engine masters do a flathead buildup. Maybe we need to start harassing Freiburger.

06-02-2020, 09:30 AM	#38
Gary-UK Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Parkgate, England Posts: 106	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Have a look at the French flathead exhaust manifolds. Exit high up and to the rear. https://www.35pickup.com/FrenchFlathead.html

06-02-2020, 10:57 PM	#41
Newc Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Posts: 2,484	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford Hi; At one time there were two types of 'Police' LEFT exh manifolds by Drake. '49-51 and another '52/53. I have a new Drake '52/53 for sale {$110} The manifolds do not interchange body yrs well. Newc

06-03-2020, 06:31 AM	#43
tubman Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Minnesota, Florida Keys Posts: 10,316	Re: Rear exit manifolds for flathead 39 Ford I put duals on my '36 coupe using a set of Fenton headers. The drivers side points down more than the French exhaust manifold shown, and it was still difficult to get the head pipe around the ('37) steering box. It's been almost 30 years, but it looks to me that the French manifold would be even more difficult to fit. I'm not trying to rain on anyone's parade, but there is a reason that the outlet on the Ford Police manifolds shown is not at the very back end of the manifold.