sealing · FF-0340

Can the bottom head studs be left out of a 21-stud Flathead?

Steve would not suggest it. The Flathead has wet studs: the threaded holes go into the water jacket, so each empty hole would have to be sealed. He also considers the six o'clock position a critical place for clamping force on each cylinder. He would rather go back to the stock bore and use all the studs.

Expert

Steve Coppock

Evidence

expert attributed

Component

head studs

Applicable scope

1932–1937 Ford Flathead V8, 21-stud