The Engine That MADE Mopar

[67newport]

 

[Davea Lux]

Without taking anything away from the 383, the Chrysler Corp flat head six was one the most reliable six cylinders out there from about '33-'59, and one of the most economical. It was also one of the longest running six cylinder designs. For just a bread and butter automotive and industrial engine, they were pretty hard to beat.

Dave

 

[CBODY67]

The engines were designed to go between body sheet metal/frame rails that were "just so wide". Which determined many of their characteristics. The LA engine was for the Valiant/Dart, so it was a narrow environment. Which seemed to result in the great exhaust ports that Uncle Tony showcases! Also at a time when many high-end racing head designers had discovered the "straight-shot" exhaiust ports with few restrictions.

To me, the LA engine exhaust port shapes were always funky, but apparently worked. Apparently stellar port flow wasn't needed to accomplish these things, either. But then the A and LA motors always seemed to be much pluckier than they had any right to be, compared to the competition.

Neat video! Thanks for posting.
CBODY67

 

[CBODY67]

The late Dick Landy was our guest at one of our annual Mopar club shows in the later '80s. When asked what size engine was best, his reply took us off-guard a bit. We, naturally expected him to say "440", but he added that UNLESS you HAD to use a 440, to do a stroker LA motor instead. At that time, some of the first 408s were being talked about. He was an interesting speaker!

CBODY67

 

[Newport 66]

Maybe that's why I have 6 of them? My favorite MoPar powerplant!!

 

[rapidtrans]

Dad’s favorite engines were the 383 2bbl and slant six engines. I’ll bet these two accounted for 90% of his company cars through the 60s and 70s. The 2bbl was a real sleeper in a B body back in the day. My 69 Satellite surprised many a Trans Am & Z28 driver. That thing didn’t care what octane you fed it.

 

[Trace 300 Hurst]

To me, the LA engine exhaust port shapes were always funky, but apparently worked.

Having ported many 340 heads (including T/A heads where you simply grind out the pushrod hump and you're about done on the intake side), I fully agree that those exhaust ports are VERY funky. That's why the W2 head was born.

Good vid, BTW.

 

[imperialman]

Without taking anything away from the 383, the Chrysler Corp flat head six was one the most reliable six cylinders out there from about '33-'59, and one of the most economical. It was also one of the longest running six cylinder designs. For just a bread and butter automotive and industrial engine, they were pretty hard to beat.

Dave

Agreed.
As a 16year old my first car a 56 Savoy with this flathead 6 and three speed transmission with overdrive was awesome!