Why do Flathead V8 Blocks Crack?

[Mike51Merc]

Originally Posted by flatheadmurre

And whats the problem with sharing a port ??

The only problem with sharing a port is that the shared ports see twice as many hot exhaust charges, yet they are structured and cooled the same as a non-shared port.

In my opinion, the real problem with Ford flatheads is the fact that the exhaust travels a painfully long and crooked path inside the block before it exits. Just look at all the 90 degree turns it has to make before leaving. Cadillac put the exhaust ports on top, resulting in an unorthodox looking engine that performed better.