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Discussion Topic:
Need engine builder
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chrismac |
12-26-2009 @ 5:59 PM
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Member
Posts: 68
Joined: Dec 2009
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I am rebuilding a 1940 V8-85 hp flathead and need a recommendation on a good source for machine work. I need the crank polished, blocked measured and likely bored, valve seats grounds, etc. All to factory specs for a restoration. I am in Indianapolis. Any recommendations? Thanks! Chris
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oldford2 |
12-27-2009 @ 4:55 AM
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Member
Posts: 275
Joined: Oct 2009
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Many 1940 engines came from the factory with "tin can" sleeves. Does your engine have them? John
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BillB |
12-27-2009 @ 6:51 AM
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Member
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You might give Rich Falluca a call..He's in Skokie, IL NW of Chicago..Excellent machinist. Sight states he's not doing V8's any more..wouldn't hurt to check... http://www.antiqueenginerebuilding.com/
This message was edited by BillB on 12-27-09 @ 6:53 AM
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trjford8 |
12-27-2009 @ 7:17 AM
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Senior
Posts: 4214
Joined: Oct 2009
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Here's a couple of suggestions. First , if you are a V-8 Club member you can use your roster and contact club members in your area for a recommendation.There's three regional groupsin Indiana with some knowledgeable members. Second, supereal who posts on this site, has a shop in Iowa that will do flatheads.He's a V-8 er himself and stands behind his work. If you are not a V-8 Club member it would benefit you to join. If you are building a flathead and or restoring a car, this club offers you a ton of good information.The 6 issues a year of the V-8 Times magazine is well worth the dues.
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supereal |
12-27-2009 @ 9:54 AM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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Thanks, Tom, for the kind words. We do rebuild flatheads, but our waiting list is usually about six months. It isn't possible to know what the rebuild will take until the engine is completely apart. Usually there is a surprise, sometimes a nasty one. We pulled an engine apart this month as the owner had reported a knocking noise. We found that there is evidence the block was frozen and cracked at some time, and antifreeze ruined nearly all the bearings, causing them to spall. A poorly installed sleeve may have been at fault. but a close inspection showed that the block was not a candidate for further use. Nearly half the engines that are brought to our shop have been poorly or incorrectly repaired. With a full rebuild costing as much as $5,000, be sure that the place you choose actually knows how to do it. We don't solicit work here on the Forum, as we have a large backlog, but encourage all to keep their Fords on the road.
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RSS |
12-27-2009 @ 10:10 AM
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Joined: Oct 2009
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There are two machine shops that do flatheads in NW Indiana, Copes in leroy, and Vansenus in Hammond. Randy
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chrismac |
12-28-2009 @ 7:23 AM
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Member
Posts: 68
Joined: Dec 2009
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It doesn't appear to. I don't see any evidence of a sleeve in any of the cylinders. Are they generally visible when looking at the deck of the block? Thanks, Chris
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chrismac |
12-28-2009 @ 7:26 AM
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Member
Posts: 68
Joined: Dec 2009
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I just joined the club and it has been great. Nice people, lots of information and a good web site. I did contact my local rep and await his response. I'm sure he'll contact me. I will look for supereal too. Thanks, Chris
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chrismac |
12-28-2009 @ 7:27 AM
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Member
Posts: 68
Joined: Dec 2009
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Thanks!
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supereal |
12-28-2009 @ 7:47 AM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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If you can't find a competent shop closer, you can discuss the needs with my son, who runs the shop, at 319/338-7140. You might also consult the parts stores in your area. Many know who is best at machine work and rebuilding, although it is always good to get several opinions, as some suggestions are based on personal opinions influenced by patronage.
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