valvetrain · FF-0359

Should the original valves be reused when rebuilding a 1938 Flathead?

Ed does not reuse them, even when they are in good shape. The 1938 valves have a split guide and a horseshoe retainer on the end of the valve, and long valve springs. He upgrades everything to the late-model 8BA type, 1949 to 1953, with regular two-piece locks and a shorter spring: new guides, springs, valves, keepers and locks. He says the newer valves fit any of the old Flathead Fords.

Expert

Ed Smith

Evidence

expert attributed

Component

valves and guides

Applicable scope

1938 Ford Flathead V8, 21-stud, 221 cubic inch, as Ed describes it