There is always a theoretical and a practical side to things :-)
The SFI approval is for an exact specification. Each, original "system"
design was proof tested as a complete assembly including the bolts, block
plate and the hydroformed bellhousing. That means the alloy (ductility) of
the metal and its thickness is as critical as the bolt grade, quantity of
bolts and hole locations. As soon as you modify the assembly (i.e., drill
one or more holes in different locations or add or remove bolts; you no
longer meet the original spec (or the "as tested" configuration) and
theoretically you are not approved. Even welding on a simple bracket will
disqualify the system. Each SFI configuration part number has either passed
an explosion proof test or has the engineering analysis to qualify it. Even
changing the motor type will disqualify the part number.
However, there is no hydro formed system for any flathead. And since the
material properties of a hydroformed part are superior to a welded,
homemade, untested design; you will likely be looked at more favorably with
a modified Lakewood than the latter. I'm sure you plan on running the
block-plate as well!
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