Ive seen several places, that you can use 48-42 heads on a 49-53 flathead, with minor modifications. But what modifications? I have looked in the Tech archive, but cant find anything. The same question goes for the manifolds. Please enlighten me. Lars
Compare the '48 heads on the block and find the offending water passage. One hole on the top front of the block on each side needs to be plugged. I have not done it but that is what I was told. Regarding the manifold. I assume you are talking intake. Use bolts where there are holes that match to the block. Holes in the manifold that don't match to the block are not used. Neal
I plugged the two water holes-kept the plugs (especially the passenger side) flush with block. Sawed out a piece of aluminum about 5/16" thick, drilled and countersunk it for two 1/4-20 flathead screws and drilled and tapped it for 5/16-18. Placed it on the block in the spot where the 8BA head's distributor hold down pad was then transferred the two 1/4 screw holes to the block. Drilled and tapped, covered the area with Permatex along with the two tapped holes and fastened the aluminum to the block. Simple-probably not more than 1 1/2 hours. Now I can clamp the distributor the same way it was with the late model heads and still loosen it to adjust timing without getting my fingers in the fan. (Which is the problem with a set screw in the timing gear cover.)
No, npt plugs. And i plug one side in the head,too Cause the gasket hole doesnt match the block. I just dunno wich side.