The Ford Barn - View Single Post - I'm considering powering a homebuilt airplane with a Ford V-8 Flathead

Pete · 09-22-2013, 05:58 PM

Yes, it should work. It's been done before but not with adequate horsepower.
A flathead can be made aircraft reliable at a conservative 140 hp. If you go with fuel injection and dry sump oiling, it can be aerobatics capable although I don't think a Pietenpol would certify for that without a whole lot of modification.
You don't build an aircraft engine with stock or even new old stock parts though.
A steel billet crank will be more than adequate to swing any prop needed.

09-22-2013, 05:58 PM	#9
Pete Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Wa. Posts: 5,408	Re: I'm considering powering a homebuilt airplane with a Ford V-8 Flathead Yes, it should work. It's been done before but not with adequate horsepower. A flathead can be made aircraft reliable at a conservative 140 hp. If you go with fuel injection and dry sump oiling, it can be aerobatics capable although I don't think a Pietenpol would certify for that without a whole lot of modification. You don't build an aircraft engine with stock or even new old stock parts though. A steel billet crank will be more than adequate to swing any prop needed.