Diamond block engine

[Randy Lausch]

Can anyone tell me the difference between a model A 4 cylinder flathead & a diamond engine. I found a diamond engine & tore the oil pan off & they both look the same to me

[Synchro909]

Most say that there is no difference, others prefer the diamond block. Personally, I see no difference.

[MAG]

Diamond blocks come with a B cam and hardened valve seats installed. Possibly other improvements. It's been a while since I looked at mine.

[rotorwrench]

They were replacement blocks cast by a subcontractor after Model A production came to a close. Ford still had a line to build up these engines for some time so they could be sold as agricultural equipment powerplants, compressors, generators, and industrial powerplants as well as replacement engines. The line continued production up to just before WWII.

[Kurt in NJ]

I have several diamond blocks they have a crack at the center head stud and in looking underneath in the water jacket the original blocks have a X shaped reinforcement that diamond blocks do not have

[Oldbluoval]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

I know that a bare diamond block weighs about 8-10# more than production era block
Once upon a time we weighed them.

[Bob Bidonde]

Its been my career experience that before computer controlled machinery, a casting was a pattern maker's art. Thus no two companies will have had the exact same casting. It's the finish machining that makes the fit of a particular casting the same.

[johnneilson]

Someone pointed out to me that the diamond blocks are potentially 10 years younger than original blocks. Seen good ones and bad ones.

In my opinion, finding a block not ruined by some "machinist" is the key, after clearing for cracks.

John

[hardtimes]

Originally Posted by Oldbluoval

I know that a bare diamond block weighs about 8-10# more than production era block
Once upon a time we weighed them.

X-2, having done same test as you !
Remember that the USED ‘37 diamond blk that I used ,and still have, is in excellent condition( that is… little rust scale). I believe this blk rested for a loong time without water which would lessen rust scaling. This blk is perfect base for build. Over many years, Ive never seen a comparable model A … or ‘32 B blk in such good condition.

I did have a NOS russian B … in cosmoline, to compare with also.