UNIVERSAL MIND wrote:

amazing machines. Now I'm itching to get a Ford flathead V-8...

Flatheads are simple, but dated machines. Ford flatheads are a real
PITA compared to modern pushrods or overhead cams. Some flatheads are
very great looking machines- Indian flathead motorcycle engines are
one. The finned head is a great looking piece, but you loose quite a
bit of horsepower which is why most motors are overhead valves now.

The briggs engines are simple because they can be. Easy to keep
working, cheap to maintain.

Kirb