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Old 04-17-2011, 12:27 PM   #1
qzjrd5
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Default '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

Went and looked at this engine today to potentially put into my '32 Tudor. I have a rebuilt flathead V8 trans I'd like to hook it up to.

The seller wants $500 and wont budge on the price. It turns over freely, but he hasn't heard it run.

Is this a truck engine? Any other comments? I am concerned about block cracks, but I really don't want to try and remove the heads at this guys house to verify. Is it worth the risk in your opinion? Just looking for some feedback.

Thanks.
Mike







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Old 04-17-2011, 01:00 PM   #2
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

It looks like something someone put togather to go into an older frame. EAC heads with truck water pumps and older intake. If it has the 53 merc parts inside it is worth $500 imho.
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Old 04-17-2011, 01:58 PM   #3
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

hard to tell whats in that motor from pix. you could pull the pan and intake or you could try to start it up as is. it has the truck carb (7rt) and pumps and 53 merc heads visible. if it is a working motor it is probably worth it. if it is a merc and has a 4" crank you probably can't go too wrong. tough call, i would pull a head, the intake, and the pan.
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Old 04-17-2011, 04:23 PM   #4
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

How does the seller feel about giving you a written warranty that the block is OK & is what he advertises or what you concerns are. Unless you have 500 clams to speculate I would insist on the removal of the pan & heads. If it checks out yep worth the coin.
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Old 04-17-2011, 10:00 PM   #5
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

B-O-B has the right idea.
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Old 04-17-2011, 10:50 PM   #6
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

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If does have a 4" crank that alone is apprx. $250. But you should verify that. Dan
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Old 04-18-2011, 09:15 AM   #7
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

crap shoot.
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Old 04-18-2011, 10:13 AM   #8
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

I've seen blocks with merc crank sell for $400. If you can pull a head, drop a tape measure down in the bore and see if it reads out at 4"
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Old 04-18-2011, 10:22 AM   #9
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Default Re: '53 Merc Flathead - Value and Identification

out here in calif a merc crank goes for $400.. since it has the wide belts it may have been in a truck at one time....I prefer the narrow belt....I paid 400. for one of these and the block was cracked but repairable.the motor I purchased was complete....like old ron said its a crap shoot...if it where me... I would buy it....It would only be $100. over what I would want to pay.....good luck
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