The Ford Flathead V8 is one of the most popular engines found in cars and trucks from the 1930s through the 1950s. It’s an extremely simple yet durable design that produces reliable power at moderate figures. However, it hasn’t escaped the attention of hot-rodders who have found ways to extract more power from this versatile V8. Did you know that the Ford Flathead V8 was the first affordable V8 engine that could be found in a mass-market car?
In this article, we’ll talk about the lifeblood of your Ford Flathead V8, Small Block, and any engine, really, that’s its oil. We’ll tell you what oil does for your engine, how often you should change it, the correct type to use, and what can go wrong if you use an incorrect type.
Looking for engine oil, filters, or other engine components? Just check out our dedicated section at JEGS where we’ll have some great choices for you. If you’re unsure about which is best for your Ford Flathead V8 or Small Block, our experts are on hand to help.
What Does Motor Oil Do for My Ford Flathead or Small Block Engine?
Engines are finely-engineered pieces of equipment that see components whizzing by at high velocities across a varying range of temperatures, loads, and engine speeds. Understandably, there is metal-on-metal contact, which is where engine oil comes into the picture. Acting as a lubricant, engine oil coats the relevant components and reduces friction between them.
Engine oil is typically stored in a sump at the bottom of the engine, or a separate tank (as in dry-sumped engines). The oil is circulated by an engine-driven pump that also pressurizes it to an appropriate pressure. After circulating through the engine, the oil ends up in the sump or tank, where it’s drawn up again. An oil filter ensures that the oil remains as clean as possible, and catches any metal shavings or other impurities. That’s why the oil filter must always be changed when an oil change is performed.
An engine that can last hundreds of thousands of miles with proper oil changes will last less than a hundred miles if run without oil. Don’t take our word for it, just hit up YouTube where you’ll find plenty of renowned automotive channels demonstrating this fact. While it can be educational, as well as entertaining to watch someone else’s engine get blown up or seized due to running without oil, it isn’t a laughing matter when it happens to you. Repairs can come to the tune of four or even five figures. It’s why you need to change your oil regularly.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
Oil change intervals vary widely, depending on the age and mileage of the engine, as well as its design and if it uses mineral or synthetic oil. Some newer vehicles can even approach 10,000 miles between oil changes, although 3,000 - 5,000 miles is the typical interval for contemporary vehicles.
Older vehicles or those with high-mileage engines may need an oil change every 3,000 miles or less. It’s always best to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual, as well as have a chat with an expert if your vehicle is a classic with an older and high-mileage engine. For the Flathead, it’s best to keep your intervals shorter yet, and many owners and sources recommend 1,000 to 2,000 miles and changing the oil filter every time.
What Oil Is Best for Ford Flathead and Ford Small Block Engines
It’s widely accepted that the best engine oil for Ford flathead V8 is SAE30 or 10W-30 mineral oil. Some users have reported great results with 20W-50 mineral oil as well. Avoid synthetic oils, as they aren’t designed for older engines, and you’ll just be wasting money.
Ford Small Block engines can also use a similar type of oil, but since there’s a broad range of Small Block engines out there, we’d recommend that you check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended oil type, or talk to a technician who’s knowledgeable about your car. There are a variety of recommended oils for Ford V8s, so it’s best to check what’s the exact match for your Ford.
What Happens If I Use the Wrong Oil?
Using the wrong engine oil in your engine can have varying results, none of which are particularly positive. Automotive manufacturers recommend the best oil for your engine, so using the wrong type will not magically make your engine perform better, or increase fuel economy. Let’s look at four scenarios.
The first is the most harmless, and it’s decreased fuel economy. This tends to happen if you’re using an oil of a higher viscosity than recommended, since the engine has to work harder to spin itself. However, continuing to run like this will cause more damage to your engine as parts get stressed beyond their reasonable limits.
Some oils, particularly synthetic ones that are thinner and thus can permeate cracks easier, can leak out when your car is parked, which is our second scenario. This can cause a drop in oil level, eventually leading to oil starvation if you don’t notice the signs of an oil leak beneath your car.
The third scenario is engine overheating. Since oil absorbs some heat as well, the wrong oil may not absorb enough of it, placing additional stress on your cooling system. If the oil is too thick, it may not properly lubricate certain parts, leading to hot spots and eventual engine failure.
The fourth scenario is total engine failure or seizing up. This can occur when metal-to-metal contact occurs due to inadequate lubrication. In effect, you’re driving your car without oil. Engine components such as the pistons, bearings, internal surfaces, and oil pump can get damaged, resulting in hefty repair bills.
Oil And Everything Else at JEGS
Whether it’s engine oil, filters, or engine performance parts you’re after, just hit up JEGS and we’ll have you sorted. Since 1960, we’ve been covering the entire gamut of performance and maintenance parts for automotive users and enthusiasts. You can browse an extensive range of products via our website, or talk to our automotive experts who are always ready to help. You’ll receive comprehensive warranties where applicable, as well as some of the best prices around. Come to JEGS and join the community!
