[rotorwrench]

Cadillac used the exhaust out the top on their flathead V8 and it worked OK but it was designed that way. They were quick to go overhead valve though so that tells a story in itself.

Most Ford V8 engines that experience cracks in the center deck likely had an overheating problem that went on just a little too long. A lot of folks didn't notice the problem until steam was gushing out from under the hood. There were no idiot lights back then.