[Henry/Kokomo]

The earlier V8's utilize floating connecting rod bearings on the crankshaft end. In case you're not familiar with the term, the bearings turn in the rods as well as turn on the crankshaft journals - hence, they "float" rather than being locked to the rods. One bearing handles 2 rods on one crank journal. The earlier cranks have only one oil hole per crank throw instead of two like the later engines.

Many folks find the earlier distributors are superior to the stock 8ba type distributors. Also, the 8ba's need a carburetor which has a vacuum port for the distributor above the throttle plates since the distributors don't function properly with manifold vacuum. The early engines use manifold vacuum.

The water passages are somewhat different in the 8ba's rather than the earlier engines. Water pumps on the older engines are oil lubricated via a passage from the timing gear chamber. Fan belts are probably wider than on your 8ba's. (5/8" vs 3/8")

Probably more differences but those come to mind - or what's left of it. Good luck!