In late 1929 Ford started development of the Flathead V8 engine. By the end of 1930 several prototype V8 engines had been hand-fabricated and installed and tested in Model A cars. By late 1931, final design and final approval had not yet occurred. However, a "new" chassis and frame had been designed that would accept the planned V8, as well as a "new refined" four cylinder engine. As the last 1931 Model A came off the line the decisions and approvals still were not made.

Finally, on November 29, 1931, production of the "new refined" 4 cylinder Model B began. Its production was short-lived because on December 7, 1931, Henry and Edsel decided to go ahead with the production of the V8. The planned introduction day was March 30, 1932. Flathead V8 engine production for 1932 was very low, and encountered many problems and delays. The "new refined" 4 cylinder engine was readily available and installed on many cars, resulting in 4 cylinder 1932 and V8 1932 cars.

1932 vehicles were available in 14 body styles. The first V8 engines were called Model 18 engines and V8 engines after March 9, 1932 were called Model 40 engines. 1933 vehicles were available in 18 body styles. 1934 vehicles were available in 17 body styles. 1935 was a great year for Ford, and an entirely new body was introduced, and 18 body styles were available. 1936 vehicles were available in 23 body styles. 1937 vehicles were available in 23 body styles. 1938 vehicles were available in 15 body styles. 1939 introduced the use of hydraulic brakes on all cars, and use of all-welded construction. For 1939 there were 12 body styles. 1940 Fords were available in 15 body styles, and included new features such as fingertip gearshift, controlled ventilation, and sealed-beam headlamps. The 1941 Ford was the longest, roomiest, widest, softest-riding Ford built to date. Shock absorbers were improved, and many accessories were available. For 1941 there were 18 models. In October of 1941 the 1942 Ford was introduced. Two engines were offered. 13 body styles were offered. By April 1942, Ford had stopped producing civilian cars, and was in the process of converting to military production including aircraft engines, gliders, armored vehicles, tank engines, jeeps, and civilian trucks. In July 1945, Ford again was getting ready to produce cars and trucks for civilians.

On October 26, 1945, Ford introduced the 1946 Ford, which was really an updated and modified version of the 1942. 11 body styles were available. The 1947-1948 cars were quite similar to the 1946 model. The $2,000.00 cost barrier was broken by the Super Deluxe V8 Sportsman, with a cost of $2,282.00. All cars produced after November 1, 1947 were designated 1948 models. 23 body styles were offered for 1947-1948. The Sportsman model was not offered for 1948. The Early V8 era ended when the all new Ford for 1949 was introduced to the public on June 10, 1948. PARTS FOR 1949 ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THIS CATALOG, BUT ARE AVAILABLE IN OUR 1949 - 1959 FORD & MERCURY CATALOG.

If you are contemplating the restoration of one of these Early V8 Fords, or are already deep into a restoration, or are proudly driving your completed restoration, MAC's can help you. MAC's has been supplying a complete line of parts, accessories, supplies, manuals, and literature for Flathead Ford restorers since 1977. Our current 1932-1948 Early Ford parts catalog lists over 6,300 parts. It is fully illustrated and contains part numbers, prices, descriptions, number of each parts required, and the years of application. The catalog is free if you have a 1932-1948 Early V8 Ford. Outside the U.S. we do require a payment of $5.00 U.S. to cover the cost of postage.

MAC's Antique Auto Parts is THE place for old, vintage, classic or obsolete Ford parts & accessories. MAC's is a full-service mail-order company selling parts for 1909 through 1970's Ford antique autos – including old Hot Rod and Street Rod parts. We also carry auto upholstery kits and manuals for classic, vintage, antique Fords.

• Browse our online inventory of Early V8 Ford car and truck Parts for Sale
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