I had been driving and maintaining my '27 pickup for nearly 40 years before I found out how dumb I really was. After finding the MTFCA web site and following it more or less regularly I found that I had been doing so many things wrong that I just couldn't believe it. For starters, I have been running a WATER PUMP!! I explained in another thread that I was aware that Henry didn't install pumps, they were an aftermarket item but since I never had a heating problem I left well enough alone. To compound this I also never ran a thermostat but also never had a problem with maintaining adequate running temperature.
Next, when I adjusted my hand brake, I did so for maximum braking not realizing that I should have a "free neutral" position. Dummy that I am I just use my high-low pedal for a neutral but know that when I apply the hand brake I will lock the rear wheels. And then I have learned that it is impossible to set or adjust the coils without an HCCT. I had never heard the term prior to my exposure to this forum. I had, fortunately,or it seems, luckily, 4 good, well adjusted coils and a good operable mag when I first got my T running. Through the years I picked up more coils for spares and would set them in the coil box one at a time and with the engine running on mag I would start adjusting the newcomer until I had a smooth slow idle. Using this technique I could run on mag with any of my self adjusted coils.
I think that this website is fabulous, I wish I had something similar 40 odd years ago. For those who are just getting into the hobby I would encourage them to make use of ALL the information that is available here. The one biggie that I picked up that I was unable to solve anywhere else was the information on how to recharge your magneto. Mine had quit suddenly a few years ago and as I was unaware that if the mag was hit with 6 volts DC that it would de-magnetize all the magnets and quit working which, I believe, is probably what happened. Through the directions that I received on this site I was able to recharge the magnets and now have an excellent mag once again.
The purpose of this post is to let you all know that while the information you glean on this site is, for the most part, factual and good, never be afraid to do your own thing. There are procedures that are frowned on by the self styled experts but will work as well or better than those that are approved by those previously mentioned people. I have, without mentioning names, found there are at least half a dozen who regularly post here that are true experts in their fields and their advise is incalculable. Your job is to use common sense and determine what advice is good for YOU!

Gordon,I have longed to say the very things you have just so eloquently stated.I just do not have the testicular fortitude[the balls] to do so.My hat is off to you.

For nearly 100 years shade tree machanics and owners have maintained the Model T Ford with no special tools. This is part of the beauty of the beast.

Very well said Gordon. I sometimes wonder how we ever got by without Lead and Zinc.

This must ring really true for us boys in the Hoosier state.

I think this should be the disclaimer at the top of the forum before you get to the posts.

Here, Here!

-Charles (New Albany)

I remember when I describe my coil tester I made useing 3 boards and a rubber cut from an old inner tube I was laughed off the forum.

Its kind of like "New Yankee Workshop" tv show. When Norm started out he did amazing things with basic tools. Now he has every possible tool imaginable. I pretty much lost interest.

Sometimes simple does the job.

Vince_m

Vince. Not to hijack, or even sidetrack this topic, but you are ABSOLUTELY correct about The New Yankee Workshop. Some of his tools, cost more than my entire shop! And yet, some how, I managed to build an entire house, cabinets and all. Thats enough ranting for me. I'm gonna' go out in the yard, lay down in the dirt, and run a fuel line, for my Speedster.