A Flathead in Engine Masters?

[Ronnieroadster]

Originally Posted by 38 coupe

While we are on the budget is not a consideration, theoretical max power flathead subject, I have a question. Why don't any of the flathead Bonneville racers use a destroked 337 Lincoln motor in the flathead class (max 325 cubes)? Bigger ports, bigger intake valves, bigger main bearings, factory forged crank, huge oil pump volume, larger valve lifter diameter, etc. It looks to me like you could get a bit more power from one of these than out of a stretched to the limit Ford motor.

I know these things are heavy (I've got one), and a lot of parts would have to be custom made, but so what? Bonneville cars get weight added, and custom made parts is the norm for Bonneville flatheads. So why not the big Lincoln?

The rules for Bonneville Land Speed Racing specify any production Ford / Mercury pasenger car V-8 flathead 1932 throw 1953 max cubes 325. The Lincoln flathead is not allowed.


Heres my ideas for the engine masters challange if the flathead was included. Start with a new French flathead block the exhaust dog bone issue has been eliminated. Next work towards a half inch valve lift actuated by rollers cam located in a tunnel flooded with oil the intake port shape issues would be greatly eliminated. Using a USA made crankshaft with five main bearings increase stroke to at least 4-1/2 inch. Next the rods would be of a beam type. Oiling changes including proper windage control and piston oil spray bars duplicating the latest technoligy used in any of the new factory high HP V-8's. Igntion crank trigered the spark plugs 3/4 reach with heat ranges adjustable for load required.
Induction would be updated to a computer contoled system for the best air fuel ratios that allow HP and Torque gains. Combustion chamber design would follow the last design developed by Harley Davidson for their racing program in the sixtys. Thats where I would start not sure where I would end.