Flathead Specifications

Ford came out with the big flathead V8 in 1948. This engine displaced 337 cubic inches and was used in the Lincoln passenger cars and the big Ford trucks. Differing horsepower ratings reflect the slight differences between the two engines. This was a significantly heavier engine (at about 850 lbs) than the more common 221 to 255 cubic inch V8's that Ford used for their smaller trucks and Ford & Mercury cars. Known as the "8EL" engine for Lincolns and as the "8EQ" engine for large Ford trucks (F-7's and F-8's).

Aside from its physical size, the easy way to identify this engine is the distributor, which is mounted at the rear of the engine near the fuel pump. The heads are held down by 27 head bolts (or studs with nuts).

Crankshafts were supported by three main bearings like the small V8's. The truck engines were built with hydraulic lifters and solid lifters. The Lincoln engines were equipped with hydraulic lifters only. Lincoln crankshafts were of forged steel. The E series engines delivered more horsepower, but also more torque for the heavy vehicles they powered. These engines are similar to the smaller 8BA/8RT and EAB/EAC engines. 

Very few parts interchange with the more common 221 to 255 cubic inch flathead V8. Some aftermarket speed parts were made for these engines back in the 1950's, but not much is being produced today aside from a supplier of multi-carb intake manifolds. Most common rebuild parts can still be found from various antique Ford vendors and suppliers.

Lincoln Specifications

Ford Truck Specifications