The 1955 Ford Fairlane: A Classic Icon of American Automotive History

Flathead V8 Water Pump & Mount Service Guide1937–1948 Ford Passenger Car | 1939–1948 Mercury V8 Servicing the cooling system on a 1937–1948 Ford passenger car or 1939–1948 Mercury V8 requires more than just swapping a part. The flathead platform integrates the water pumps, front engine mounts, and cooling hoses in a way that makes access and sequencing important. Whether you’re replacing water pumps, water pump bolts, or addressing motor mounts at the same time, the process benefits from a clear plan. The parts referenced here include: 78-8501-PR – Water Pumps 78-8501-HK – Water Pump Bolts 78-6038-BDK – Motor Mounts These components are commonly serviced together on 37–48 Ford and 39–48 Mercury V8 applications due to their physical proximity and shared mounting areas. Why These Systems Overlap On these flathead V8 engines, the water pumps mount at the front of the block and are positioned near the front motor mount assembly. In many cases, removing the pumps requires relieving load from the mounts. Aging rubber mounts can sag over time, changing engine position slightly and complicating pump removal or installation. Addressing motor mounts during cooling system service can help maintain proper engine alignment. Fitment may vary slightly by model year or chassis configuration. Always confirm application for Ford passenger car versus Mercury V8 before ordering parts. Give us a call or email and we will answer your questions! Basic Removal Sequence A structured approach reduces stress on hardware and surrounding components: Drain CoolantBegin by fully draining the cooling system. Open the radiator petcock and, if equipped, block drains to remove as much coolant as possible. Remove Radiator Hoses (Upper and Lower)Disconnect both hoses from the radiator and water pump outlets. Inspect hose condition during removal. Loosen Motor Mount BoltsThe front motor mount assembly may need to be loosened to allow slight engine movement. Do not fully remove the mount until the engine is properly supported. Support the EngineCarefully jack up the engine using a wood block under the oil pan. The wood block helps distribute load. Raise only enough to relieve tension from the mounts. Remove All Eight Water Pump BoltsEach pump is secured with multiple bolts. Remove all mounting hardware evenly to prevent binding. The water pump bolt kit (78-8501-HK) ensures proper hardware replacement if originals are corroded or worn. *PRO TIP there is a bolt in each of the lower water pump outlets. Once the bolts are removed, the water pumps (78-8501-PR) can be removed from the block. Surfaces should be cleaned thoroughly before re-installation. Motor Mount Considerations The motor mount kit (78-6038-BDK) supports the engine’s front weight and isolates vibration from the frame. When mounts are deteriorated, engine position may shift slightly. Replacing mounts during water pump service is practical because access is already established and the engine is supported. Fitment should always be verified for specific Ford passenger car or Mercury V8 applications within the 1937–1948 and 1939–1948 ranges. Restoration-Focused Approach Flathead cooling system service is straightforward when handled methodically. These engines were designed for serviceability, but age introduces corrosion, hardware fatigue, and rubber deterioration. Replacing water pumps, water pump bolts, and motor mounts as a coordinated service helps maintain structural alignment and cooling integrity. Taking the time to follow proper removal steps protects original components and ensures the flathead V8 continues operating as intended. View our full selection of Flathead V8 Water Pumps and Cooling Components.

Old Ford? Come experience GREAT customer service! Have you had enough of poor customer service and lack of technical knowledge when it comes to your old Ford? Believe me we know what it's like. If you're like most people, you probably start off full of drive and excitement, and making good progress on your project for a few weeks or months, but then - Murphy gets busy annoying you! As soon as you get one thing sorted another pops up, you get distracted and your project gets dumped in the too hard basket. And to make matters worse, there's always that one person who keeps asking you how your restoration is going, and you know they're having a good old laugh at your expense. You end up feeling confused and overwhelmed by all the technical jargon and mechanical issues you just don't understand. Until recently the only solution for amateur mechanics trying to break through the restoration problem on an old Ford, was to either obtain a full-time flathead mechanic somewhere or to hire a restoration company to do it for you. The problem with this option is that expert flathead mechanics are hard to find, and even if you do manage to find one willing to help you out, you'll be looking at upwards of $100 per hour, which is simply out of reach for most old ford owners. And it's for this reason that I'm pleased to reveal C&G Ford Parts has free technical help for its customers and we are staffed with folks that currently own or have owned old Ford cars or old Ford trucks! Here at C&G Ford Parts we've been helping old Ford owners with their restoration needs and supplies for over 40 years! And what we've proven over and over in our business is that the easiest and most reliable way to finish up your project is by adding a go to guy to your toolbox. It's literally the difference between a frustrating and annoying project and a "life changing, quit your job" kind of result. (ok, maybe not quit your job). With C&G Ford Parts lending their expertise and supplying your parts you'll be able to restore your vehicle with the fun and excitement you had hoped it would bring! If you get stuck you always know all you need to do is dial us up or drop us an email and we'll be there! Now what makes our service different from any other parts service out there is that there's NO additional costs - No out today fees, no added shipping fees, no waiting for days for a tech to call back AND you're covered for as long as you're a customer! Let's take a look at how C&G Ford Parts helps you. Our customers enjoy: Free tech support from old ford owners Friendly live person customer service Best reproduction parts available Over 100 manufacturers Worldwide shipping This is just a taste of what people are already saying about C&G Ford Parts: ----- Well organized, responsive, helpful in planning parts needs for specific project —Lawrence G. ----- How quick and efficient can you guys get?!! —Terry M. So, You've wasted enough of your time, energy, and sanity on trying to fix those irritating issues by yourself! You can finally put an end to all your frustration and disappointment simply by giving C&G Ford parts a call, email or web form question. Just imagine waking up in the morning, opening your mailbox, and finding your parts order no matter where you are in the world. You smile to yourself as you realize the fun an old car can be when you have the right help. So pick up the phone or computer mouse and let us fill your old ford parts order quickly and efficiently.

Classic Ford parts are essential components for enthusiasts and collectors who aim to restore, maintain, or customize their vintage Ford vehicles. Ford, one of the most iconic automakers in history, has produced a range of classic cars that have a special place in the hearts of many. From the legendary Model T to the Mustang, the legendary F series pick ups and Mercury's each classic Ford model has its unique set of parts and accessories that are sought after by collectors and restorers worldwide. The allure of classic Ford parts lies in their ability to bring a piece of automotive history back to life. These parts are not just replacements; they are fragments of a bygone era, each with a story to tell. Restoring a classic Ford using reproduction parts is like preserving a piece of art. It's about maintaining the integrity and authenticity of a vehicle that has been a symbol of American culture and innovation. One of the challenges in restoring classic Fords is finding the right parts. Authentic parts are often scarce, and locating them can be a painstaking process. Fortunately, C&G Ford Parts has made it easier for enthusiasts and restorers to find what they need. We have have a vast inventory of reproduction parts, from crank pulleys to dash bezels, and we cater to a range of models and years. The quality of classic Ford parts is paramount. Authentic parts are typically more durable and fit better than aftermarket replicas, but are very hard to find. Reproduction parts on the other hand ensure that the vehicle remains true to its original form, which is crucial for maintaining its appeal. For those who cannot find authentic parts, high-quality reproductions are the next best option. These parts are manufactured to match the original specifications as closely as possible. For many, the restoration of a classic Ford is more than a hobby; it's a passion. It involves meticulous work and a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and engineering of a bygone era. Whether it's a complete restoration or a minor repair, using classic Ford parts is essential to keeping the legacy of these timeless vehicles alive. As these cars continue to age, the demand for high-quality classic parts is only expected to grow, making them an integral part of the classic car community.