8BA into a 1934 Ford

[Three window coupe36]

The 8BA block is longer than the 59A by about 21/2". So with everything being equal; water pumps, fan blade clearance etc. would the modifications, fabrications would be done at transmission mount, firewall tunnel clearance area? Thanks for any help.

[JSeery]

Not entirely true, the blocks are the same length (except for the bellhousing), it is the front bolt-ons that increase the 8ba length. These can be changed to the 59a or truck parts. No modifications to the frame, firewall, transmission mounts, etc are required. The 59a block is actually longer because of the built in portion of the bellhousing, but the components used to mate the 8ba to the transmission make the overall assembly the same length. Spacers are needed to mate the truck water pumps. They correct both the height and spacing difference. The side to side spacing of the front mounts is different from the original 34 engine mounts and later engine mounts. This applies to both 59a & 8ba engines.

There are various methods to work out the fan placement. This is a very common installation and has been done throusands of times I'm sure. Lots of threads on the topic here on the Barn. Also a lot of members on here who have experience with this and can provide answers to about any question.

[Three window coupe36]

Thanks for the reply. Summarizing what is required, such as parts, spacers, etc that would make this work? Can you recommend a supplier? really appreciate the help with this project.

[JSeery]

By the way, welcome to the Barn! I am away from my computer at the moment and not that good going from memory, LOL. If someone else doesn't jump in I can post some information later. The front engine mount adapters were a Ford item and are also reproduced. They look like a "c' or "u" shaped piece of flat metal. I'm sure there are other sources, but Speedway is one. You can also fabricate them yourself.

[rotorwrench]

The 49/51 Mercury set up may work in some early V8 cars. The water pumps may have to have spacers but I've never done it so I don't know for sure. The oil pan is a good fit. The frontal accessories leave a bit more space in front than the ford car or pickup stuff. The pickup has a deeper oil pan but may also work.

The 59 series frontal accessories can be used with an earlier type fan on the generator but the camshaft & gearing has to be changed to get the correct thrust for a crab or helmet type distributor. It's all been done. Even the 59 type heads can be used for the old timey look if the proper ports are plugged.

[JSeery]

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Here is are some examples of the spacers.

[JSeery]

Some threads on this install. These are just examples, you need to research this all out before jumping into parts.

https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/...4-ford.234230/

Speedway parts:

https://www.speedwaymotors.com/1949-...Belt,5317.html

C&G: https://www.bing.com/images/search?v...vt=0&eim=1,2,6

[19Fordy]

In a 40 Ford you don't need the U spacers if you use the wide belt truck water pumps. Not sure about a 34.

[JSeery]

The engine mounts brackets (and of course the mounting points on the crossmember) were a different spacing on the 33-34 versis the later engines. The mounting height is likewise different.

From C&G site: Engine Mount to Frame Adapter Spacers For mounting a later Flathead engine into an early frame. If using a 1949-53 V8, must use 8RT-8501-L or -R water pumps and a rear sump oil pan.

32-34 Passenger
32-34 Pickup

Ford made a similar part to use later engines as replacements in the earlier frames/vehicles. This is the part number from the Blue Book.

[JSeery]

Early Ford Store also has them: "Ford originally made this part so that a later flathead engine could fit in properly in the 1933-34 frame. It spaces the engine up higher, and also positions the holes offset so that it can be bolted up properly."

[tubman]

They are available, but in my opinion, waaaay over priced. If you have access to a welder and some scrap steel, you can make your own at a fraction of the retail price.

By the way, has anyone else noticed that some rather ordinary stuff is getting commercial pricing that is way overblown. I just got a new Speedway "Hot Rod" catalog, and some of the prices just blew me away.

[JSeery]

Would depend on where it was made and the quality. We are so accustom to cheap imports that quality parts seem expensive. But, that all assumes quality parts!

[tubman]

C'mon "JSeery", I did say it was Speedway.

[JSeery]

Originally Posted by tubman

C'mon "JSeery", I did say it was Speedway.

I happen to know some of the folks that make parts for Speedway, US made and the best quality there is. They also carry cheap import parts, just like just about everyone else. But you can't make a general statement. One example, I was good friends with the individual that made the tube axles for Speedway up until his death. Best quality there is. There are some tube axles in production on a pallet in the background when I was working on my quickchange.

[19Fordy]

Mr. Seery, Thanks for the feedback on some Speedway parts manufacturer. i always wonder where their parts are made.

[Three window coupe36]

Mr. Seery, Thanks for this. I learned a lot and will have some follow up questions.

Marty

[bobH]

Regarding those U-shaped motor mount adapters... I have a pair, I'll offer for free if someone wants to pick up the postage. Mine are 'repro', painted blue (if that means anything). Quality unknown. I never used them.
A little opinion here.. not sure I'd use them. Couldn't we just make something to do the job? I realize, way back in the day, we would just pick up those parts off a Merc in the junk yard.