Technical Flathead Ford Terminology

Could you guys and gals please shed a little light on the Flathead Ford terms like: 8BA, 8CM, and so forth. I think there are more than just those two, but I don’t remember what they are. What do these designations mean? Where do they come from? Are they cast/stamped into the block? Do they refer to years? I understand the 21/24 stud reference, but I’ve read these other terms for a couple of years here without understanding them. Unfortunately, the only Flathead that I’ve ever worked on is the International Harvester C-60 Engine from the Cub tractor line. Please help out a Small Block Chevrolet guy. Thanks for your help.

Andy


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Here is a chart that pretty well covers it.
There is a lot more good info on that website.
Some numbers you hear frequently are part numbers or casting numbers and people mix them in with car model numbers.
http://vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/flathead_model_IDchart.htm

 

Here’s a link to the flathead V8 engine identification pages in our website. The most common engines are going to be the 85-100hp types:
http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/flathead_specifications.htm

 

After looking at both charts, thanks guys!, the numbers I’m referring to are actually engine models? I didn’t realize that Ford made so many different models of Flathead engines.


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Correct.

 

Thanks for all of the help. You Guys are very helpful.


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Books are a great resource.....some of the numbers you mention are actually on the heads - between the Fords - Mercs and Lincoln's....have fun learning - I still mess up sometimes.

 

flathead part numbers are goofy until you get the hang of it. you gonna play with flathead fords and get the diesel oil off ya truck doctor? not much of a gain, old ford black oil is almost as hard to wash off as diesel oil !