Search found 130 matches
- Sun Dec 05, 2021 7:14 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Buttons on upholstery
- Replies: 9
- Views: 1701
Re: Buttons on upholstery
If you want some nice upholstery buttons that are correct (ie; painted), contact Mike at Classtique. I replaced all my covered buttons with his painted ones. Really pretty inexpensive and correct looking.
- Sun Dec 05, 2021 7:02 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: High compression heads / high performance cams
- Replies: 19
- Views: 2712
Re: High compression heads / high performance cams
Have Prus head and Stipe 280 cam in professionally rebuilt engine with a SCAT crank. Also and Ideal Timer(Kossor). Starts easy, runs like a dream in my '26 Touring. I like the combination so well I am building up another engine just like it for my '26 Tudor.
- Mon Nov 08, 2021 7:29 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Synthetic Oil
- Replies: 47
- Views: 3043
Re: Synthetic Oil
I run 10W-40 full synthetic in my T, and have since after the break-in period of the engine was completed. No issues. However...my engine is not a prolific leaker like some T engines. Actually, leakage is pretty minimal. If that wasn't the case I would be checking out the sales on 10W-30 or 10W-40 w...
- Fri Oct 29, 2021 7:07 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Generator or Alternator for T
- Replies: 17
- Views: 2097
Re: Generator or Alternator for T
You can go either way. I had a 6v generator and then changed it out for an 6v alternator on my '26. Personally, I don't like the look of alternator on a Model T. But I had halogen headlights and tails. Once I switch out the halogens for LED's, I had no more need for the extra amps. So I went back to...
- Wed Mar 24, 2021 8:21 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Antifreeze
- Replies: 13
- Views: 2610
Re: Antifreeze
Kinda depends where you live. If you're a resident of the sunny South, maybe water or something close to it would work. If you live up where I do in the frozen tundra, and your car lives in a cold garage year long, better either completely drain your cooling system or use antifreeze adjusted for the...
- Wed Mar 24, 2021 8:08 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Green new deal-better get ready
- Replies: 16
- Views: 3221
Re: Green new deal-better get ready
Steve, that surprises me too. Given the flood of people anticipating leaving for more tax-friendly states, that may change as well.
- Mon Mar 01, 2021 7:57 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Could this be used to charge a T battery?
- Replies: 9
- Views: 2077
Re: Could this be used to charge a T battery?
Those technically aren't "regulators", they just dump excess voltage over 14 volts or so. Most of those small engine and power sports stators don't put out over 20 volts. The Model T magneto does, so plan on replacing lots of them. I have thought about adapting one for a generator since the Fun Proj...
- Sat Feb 13, 2021 6:02 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Change oil in the rearend?
- Replies: 23
- Views: 3342
Re: Change oil in the rearend?
I have a Ruckstell rear end. Not a leaker. But I check it at the start of the season and the end just to see how much if any the level dropped. Then I usually change it every 3 years regardless of how it looks. A quart of 75W-140 (synthetic) is a whole bunch cheaper than a new Ruckstell.
- Mon Jan 25, 2021 7:50 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Installing alternator
- Replies: 19
- Views: 3237
Re: Installing alternator
Be very careful with the alternator's gear mesh with the cam gear. Birdhaven's unit has an exact gear mesh with the cam gear. You will still have to add gaskets to get it correct, but at least the gear mesh of alternator gear and cam gear are exact. The same can't be said of some of the other units ...
- Sat Jan 02, 2021 7:48 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Tires for Model T--4.50 x21 Lucas olympic
- Replies: 19
- Views: 3700
Re: Tires for Model T--4.50 x21 Lucas olympic
The INSA tires on one of my '26 cars say "Made in Chile" . I've heard that they tend to wear out faster than some of the other brands. But, I can't verify that since I haven't driven them much at all.
- Fri Dec 25, 2020 8:11 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Motorcycle Oil
- Replies: 41
- Views: 5466
Re: Motorcycle Oil
Would be interesting to hear from the coast-to-coast run participants what oi they run in their cars. Those machines running 400 miles daily for days on end would test any oil. I'm curious as to which brands, types, and viscosities they use.
- Sun Dec 20, 2020 6:00 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: STABIL shelf life
- Replies: 21
- Views: 3781
Re: STABIL shelf life
Given my choice, I much prefer the Marine Stabil (Blue) over the original Stabil (Red). Seems to better job preventing phase separation in oxygenated fuels if you have to use them or opt to use them. I use oxygenated fuel in my Model T because it doesn't sit in there all that long. I always add an o...
- Sun Dec 06, 2020 8:25 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Oil Question
- Replies: 9
- Views: 2100
Re: Oil Question
Been using Amsoil Premium 10W-40 since my engine was broken in a few years back. No issues at all. I get it at discount which puts it at roughly the same price point as conventional brand oils. Plus my car isn't a prolific leaker. If those two factors were different, I'd probably just stay with conv...
- Thu Nov 26, 2020 8:26 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Unknown Cylinder Head and Lubrication Questions
- Replies: 27
- Views: 4785
Re: Unknown Cylinder Head and Lubrication Questions
I believe the modern equivalent of 600 wt is 250 wt. Yes, it is thick stuff and kinda sticky too. I use it to lube the flip top oilers. Never tried it in my rear end since I have a Ruckstell and use 75W-140 in there.
- Mon Nov 09, 2020 7:19 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Power draw
- Replies: 12
- Views: 2089
Re: Power draw
Need more info: How many amps does your generator put out with the lights OFF? How many amps does your generator register with the lights on? (it will be negative) What kind and how many lights do you have and what's their total amp load? Weak and old batteries, poor connections and grounds need to ...
- Sat Oct 31, 2020 7:26 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Fun Projects VR Alternative?
- Replies: 14
- Views: 3388
Re: Fun Projects VR Alternative?
I've been looking at regulator/rectifiers as an alternative as well. Found some three wire units and a couple of two wire units. Regulator rectifiers are pretty common in some motorcycles and lots of outboards. Basically, they allow voltage to charge the battery and when that requirement has been re...
- Fri Oct 16, 2020 8:25 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: To Ruckstell or not to Ruckstell....that is the question
- Replies: 24
- Views: 4132
Re: To Ruckstell or not to Ruckstell....that is the question
The best option would be to find folks in your local club who have either a Ruckstell or Warford, and drive both. Make your decision from there. If you go the Ruckstell route; I would highly recommend getting the newly manufactured unit from Chaffin's. Newly manufactured CNC machined parts are reall...
- Sat Sep 26, 2020 8:04 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: What oil do I use in my T? 5w? 60w?
- Replies: 30
- Views: 4035
Re: What oil do I use in my T? 5w? 60w?
I have used Amsoil Premium 10W-40 since my first oil change after breaking in the engine. The protection of full synthetic oil is excellent. No problems with band slippage either. HOWEVER...my car doesn't leak much, and I get it at a discount that prices it about where Pennzoil, Castrol, or Valvolin...
- Mon Sep 21, 2020 2:20 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?
- Replies: 72
- Views: 8557
Re: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?
I love my Model T because its living, rolling history every time I am behind the wheel. And more than that it reminds me of the great times and stories my grandfather shared with me of his years growing up at the dawn of the automotive age. Also learned some great Model T tips from his own experienc...
- Sat Aug 29, 2020 8:30 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Model T's in Duluth.
- Replies: 3
- Views: 1469
Re: Model T's in Duluth.
Lots of places are still open but require masks to visit. The great Lakes Aquarium in Canal Park is an interesting place. Unfortunately the Maritime Museum down there is closed, but its always fun to watch the ships come in and out of the harbor through the canal. The North Shore Railway and Museum ...
- Mon Aug 24, 2020 8:53 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Replacement air filter element suggestions?
- Replies: 10
- Views: 2519
Re: Replacement air filter element suggestions?
Check out the K&N Filters website: https://www.knfilters.com/, and see if they have something you could use. If they have a product that would work, just contact your local auto parts stores to see who has it or can get it.
- Mon Aug 24, 2020 8:43 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: straightening spokes....
- Replies: 11
- Views: 3139
Re: straightening spokes....
Cool tool, but won't do anything for over-all hub-rim alignment if other spokes just have minor bending. I took my wire wheels to a place in Wausau, WI that did all five of them for $125. There are lots of places who do rim alignment bending. I'm pretty sure there are other places that can do the jo...
- Mon Aug 24, 2020 8:25 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: CARBURETOR CLEANER FUEL ADDITIVE
- Replies: 8
- Views: 2294
Re: CARBURETOR CLEANER FUEL ADDITIVE
I would try just shutting off the fuel and draining the carb bowl first. Might be a flake of something or a little accumulated water laying in the bottom causing issues. If that fails to improve the situation, then maybe throw a bottle of STP fuel injection cleaner or similar in there.
- Thu Aug 20, 2020 8:13 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Ball bearing 4th main
- Replies: 14
- Views: 2603
Re: Ball bearing 4th main
The other issue is "faked" bearings from offshore sources. I pretty much exclusively use SKF bearings because they are some of the best in the business. But there can be problems there as well. This explains the predicament SKF is in pretty well: https://www.skf.com/us/organisation/brand-protection[...
- Tue Aug 18, 2020 9:11 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Model Ts Illegal?
- Replies: 33
- Views: 5826
Re: Model Ts Illegal?
If you live in rural areas (or close to them), there will always be areas to drive your T. Population in those areas is decreasing and has been for several decades. The recent "Escape the infected Cities" trend won't greatly impact that trend. So rural roads will always be around to hit the road upo...
- Sat Aug 15, 2020 8:23 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 6 Volt LED Headlight Bulbs
- Replies: 12
- Views: 4054
Re: 6 Volt LED Headlight Bulbs
The ones I have installed are the BA15D with high/low beam functions. Before switching to them I ran 25 watt halogens. I would say on high the BA15D LED bulbs are comparable to the halogens I ran previously in the headlights. However, the amp draw is only a fraction of what is required to power the ...
- Thu Aug 13, 2020 7:46 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 6v Generator to 12V?
- Replies: 8
- Views: 2981
Re: 6v Generator to 12V?
Fun Projects shows a regulator specifically for 12v. The Model T generator doesn't care what the battery voltage is (within reason). It will put out 6/8/12, but at decreasing amperage as the voltage increases. You will have to reduce the amperage using the 3rd. brush to something around 4-5 amps or ...
- Thu Aug 06, 2020 9:02 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Russ Potter Carb
- Replies: 4
- Views: 2385
Re: Russ Potter Carb
Russ rebuilt my NH. Some of the best money I ever spent. The car ran great after that.
- Wed Aug 05, 2020 8:24 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 12v Alternator gear or belt? Best price with quality?
- Replies: 9
- Views: 3442
Re: 12v Alternator gear or belt? Best price with quality?
I'll second Pat's recommendation. The Birdhaven unit is the best unit in my experience available out there at the moment. It required the least amount of shimming to get a great fit and has been reliable. My 6v Birdhaven alternator worked great, no issues. I did, however, remove it and replaced it w...
- Sun Jul 26, 2020 7:19 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Buckeye Auto Electric Alternator
- Replies: 13
- Views: 4761
Re: Buckeye Auto Electric Alternator
I purchased one for my car a couple years ago. The pinned on gear did not mesh correctly with my camshaft gear, even after multiple shims. Returned it, got another one. Same issue. Puled it back out to check the gear mesh and discovered it was off significantly. They use a gold plated gear of some s...
- Mon Jul 20, 2020 7:29 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Transmission bands and synthetic oil
- Replies: 12
- Views: 4549
Re: Transmission bands and synthetic oil
Been using Amsoil10W-40 (high zinc) oil in my '26 Touring for 5 years now. Have kevlar bands properly adjusted. No issues with slippage at all.
- Tue Jul 07, 2020 7:04 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Will changing electrical system to 12v devalue the car?
- Replies: 27
- Views: 7823
Re: Will changing electrical system to 12v devalue the car?
Along with all those things that have been suggested, if you really feel the need for more starter rpm, get a Optima 6 volt battery. They have 800 CCA as opposed o a standard 6 volt battery's 600 CCA. Have one in mine and it really rolls it over. Only caveat I have is that you need to have a regulat...
- Sun Jul 05, 2020 7:12 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: LED headlight bulbs
- Replies: 27
- Views: 7572
Re: LED headlight bulbs
I replaced my halogen bulbs (headlights and dual function tails) with LED bulbs. Used the lower one shown in the previous post for the headlights. I originally order the "warm" light versions but found their light output didn't seem to measure up to the halogens, so I replaced them with the "bright"...
- Sat Jul 04, 2020 7:19 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Thank You Chaffins !! New Ruckstell
- Replies: 9
- Views: 3756
Re: Thank You Chaffins !! New Ruckstell
I ordered one of Chaffin's Ruckstell kits and had them install the housing on the left axle housing. New CNC parts are just a joy to work with. Makes precision assembly so much easier. Been enjoying mine for 5 years now.
- Wed Jul 01, 2020 9:34 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Vaporizer Question - bowel vent leak
- Replies: 11
- Views: 3799
Re: Vaporizer Question - bowel vent leak
I would rebuild that shutoff valve while I was at it. Lap the valve in and apply some EZ-Turn. Did mine 3 years ago. Absolutely no issues as I run the fuel out of my carb almost every time I park the car for any length of time.
- Wed Jul 01, 2020 9:24 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Distributor and burnt points
- Replies: 11
- Views: 3587
Re: Distributor and burnt points
Remember that back in the days before electronic ignitions, 12 volt systems had bypass and ballast resistor in their ignition systems. When the car was cranked, the bypass delivered 12 volts to the points. When the key was turned from "start" to "run", the current was routed through a ballast resist...
- Sun Jun 28, 2020 6:28 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Installing balance beads
- Replies: 13
- Views: 4859
Re: Installing balance beads
I use about an 8" piece of gold tygon fuel line hose. Regular vinyl will work ok too, but you need a piece longer than the one provided. I rotate the tire between 10 and 2. Attach the hose to the stem after removing the core. Make sure the air is out of the tube, Fill about 2"-3" of beads in the tub...
- Sun Jun 28, 2020 6:14 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: How do you Downshift?
- Replies: 10
- Views: 3626
Re: How do you Downshift?
With a stock trans set-up, or with a Ruckstell, or a Warford or similar? Please specify.
- Sun Jun 28, 2020 5:55 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 12 Volt Geared Starter
- Replies: 9
- Views: 3550
Re: 12 Volt Geared Starter
If you have a hot soldering iron or mini-torch you can modify your existing starter for 12 volt operation pretty easily.
- Sat Jun 27, 2020 6:24 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Starter rebuild
- Replies: 4
- Views: 2062
Re: Starter rebuild
To start with, get the MTFCA electrical book. Lots of good info on starters and generators in there. I have rebuilt both generators and starters, and its actually kinda fun and educational. All the components you will need are available from the vendors. One thing I do is to replace the starter or g...
- Wed Jun 24, 2020 6:56 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Engine Splash/Dust Pans: Yea or Nay?
- Replies: 31
- Views: 7428
Re: Engine Splash/Dust Pans: Yea or Nay?
Have them on my '26. No problems with cooling and I do believe it keeps some of the road dust and debris out of the engine compartment.
- Wed Jun 24, 2020 6:27 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Ford accessory Stop/Tail light parts ???
- Replies: 11
- Views: 4112
Re: Ford accessory Stop/Tail light parts ???
Looks like you are looking for parts for the accessory tail/stop for your 26 roadster? Those Ford dual function tail lights were similar to the 28/29 Model A commercial lights. You might want to contact Bratton's Model A Parts. They sell a Duolamp reproduction unit that is similar to your Ford unit....
- Sat Jun 20, 2020 7:32 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 8 volt Batteries
- Replies: 9
- Views: 3426
Re: 8 volt Batteries
This place might be able to help you find what you need: https://www.ledlight.com/
- Tue Jun 16, 2020 7:55 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: VR or cutout
- Replies: 15
- Views: 4961
Re: VR or cutout
Bernd, You might want to consider switching to LED bulbs. I know they don't look "period", but their light output is exceptional and amp draw very low. I switched the halogen and regular bulbs out of my 26 Touring (headlights, courtesy light, dual function tail lights). When they are all on, they dr...
- Thu Jun 11, 2020 6:48 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: VR or cutout
- Replies: 15
- Views: 4961
Re: VR or cutout
The biggest problem may be the availability of voltage regulators for the Model T generator. To my knowledge, they have been back ordered for some time and no real delivery date has been floated out there to date. In the mean time, 10-12 amps is set way too high for the generator output using a cuto...
- Fri Jun 05, 2020 8:31 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Zajicek HC Head
- Replies: 19
- Views: 6121
Re: Zajicek HC Head
Had the Z head installed on my engine by the rebuilder. Ran it for two years and replaced in with the Prus head. Like this set up better. The Z head is on mt project engine now, but if that turns out well I will get another Prus head for that as well.
- Tue May 26, 2020 7:12 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Halogen Tail Lites
- Replies: 6
- Views: 2496
Re: Halogen Tail Lites
I had the dual function halogens in my 26 tail lights. Yeah, they were bright...but sucked up a ton of watts and amps. And yes, they were hot. I switched to dual function LED bulbs in the tails now and they are plenty bright, run much cooler, and use barely any wattage to operate. Switched out the h...
- Wed May 20, 2020 9:15 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Harbor Freight jack stands
- Replies: 28
- Views: 7594
Re: Harbor Freight jack stands
This is part of the central issue with Chinese sourced products: inconsistent production practices and quality control. Yes, they do manufacture some pretty good stuff that is well built and reliable. But issues like infrequent tooling changes, lack of inspection, poor quality control practices, and...
- Wed May 20, 2020 7:42 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Should I get a Model T or A?
- Replies: 25
- Views: 7054
Re: Should I get a Model T or A?
Find some A and T owners who are willing to teach (and let you test drive) both. Then go home and drive your folk's vehicle. Use that experience to make your initial decision. What those experiences teach you may help in defining exactly what you want in a vehicle. And, remember...no matter what you...
- Thu May 14, 2020 7:54 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Rebuilt generator
- Replies: 11
- Views: 4194
Re: Rebuilt generator
Certainly there are some pretty reputable vendors mentioned that do a great job of rebuilding and setting up a generator. But if you want to stay more local, look around for a shop that does electrical work on old tractors. Many of these folks understand 3rd brush generators and can do a credible re...
- Thu Apr 30, 2020 9:07 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Use a torque wrench in difficult places
- Replies: 8
- Views: 3662
Re: Use a torque wrench in difficult places
I just use a crow's foot to get to the head bolts near the firewall. Same goes for most other tight places
- Mon Apr 20, 2020 8:09 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Emergency brake as service brake
- Replies: 19
- Views: 6155
Re: Emergency brake as service brake
Have a '26 Touring. I installed the equalizer and set it up to engage the service brakes before the trans brakes activated as well. My impression: the whole set up was only marginally better than just using the trans brake. I experimented with different shoe linings as well. Again, not much differen...
- Sun Apr 19, 2020 10:37 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Diferences between 26and27
- Replies: 15
- Views: 5321
Re: Diferences between 26and27
Probably need to have Donnie Brown weigh in here. He has done some research on the Improved Car models and has a pretty good handle on the various changes. His handle is "Dobro" on the forum. Contact him and see what he says.
- Fri Apr 10, 2020 8:17 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Goodbye Old Friend - Tire Report.
- Replies: 26
- Views: 7833
Re: Goodbye Old Friend - Tire Report.
Bob, Check with some of your local tire centers or gas stations. My local guy has a newer variety of tire changer that grabs by the rim not the hub. He can and does change clincher as well as 21" tires. He's done of some of mine and I will never bother beating myself up for few bucks doing that again.
- Sat Apr 04, 2020 8:01 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Newbie question about magneto
- Replies: 21
- Views: 6100
Re: Newbie question about magneto
Personally, I would pull the engine and pop the hogshead cover off. I know some guys will tell you to leave the engine in the care and pull the hogshead cover, but the 26 Model T is far from roomy up front. If you have a loose magnet down there on the flywheel and you don't deal with it, you will be...
- Fri Apr 03, 2020 7:48 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: A change of fuel on my road to Damascus
- Replies: 17
- Views: 5971
Re: A change of fuel on my road to Damascus
Yep! I have seen that on a few machines that have sat over the winter. The bad thing is that water can rust the heck out of metal fuel tanks. I even add Stabil 360 to non-oxygenized fuel if it sits for more than a month or so.
- Fri Mar 20, 2020 6:34 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Water pump
- Replies: 10
- Views: 4107
Re: Water pump
I think a lot depends on your car and where you live. I know guys up here in near tundra that never run water pumps and don't use thermostats. Their cars run fine for them. My car runs cool and warms up too slowly without a thermostat (160 degree). On cooler days (70 degrees) without the thermostat,...
- Fri Mar 06, 2020 7:33 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Signs of Spring
- Replies: 19
- Views: 7107
Re: Signs of Spring
Up here in the near tundra of northern WI winter persists, but there are some signs of spring. The lake has been rumbling underneath the ice. A sure sign the ice is beginning to weaken, the trumpeter swans have started to return to open water, and the piles of snow are gradually shrinking. Bears hav...
- Sat Feb 29, 2020 7:28 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Running Board Tool Box on Ebay now.
- Replies: 13
- Views: 5925
Re: Running Board Tool Box on Ebay now.
Last box I bought at auction was in pretty much identical condition, but without all the stuff inside Paid $20. I watched a few folks look it over before the bidding started and didn't like the fact that "somebody drilled some holes in the bottom". Yep, heard 'em say that. I was the only bidder.
- Fri Feb 14, 2020 6:37 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Michigan UP Tour Idea
- Replies: 24
- Views: 7523
Re: Michigan UP Tour Idea
Scheduling any outdoor event north of the hard winter line can get problematic in the Fall. Having lived in this part of the planet most of my life, I've learned that you have until roughly mid October before the temps fall off the edge. Usually we can count on "Indian Summer" sometime around Octobe...
- Fri Feb 07, 2020 9:23 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 1926 Dash board screws
- Replies: 6
- Views: 3197
Re: 1926 Dash board screws
You can get the screws at McMaster-Carr, Seems to me they are 1/4-20 oval head. Forget the length at the moment. Not real expensive.
- Fri Feb 07, 2020 9:18 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Improved cars, actual first date of production?
- Replies: 17
- Views: 5874
Re: Improved cars, actual first date of production?
If your front axle doesn't match the model, don't be surprised. My 26 Tudor (early December 1925 build) had an earlier axle too. No, it wasn't factory. After crawling underneath and wiping the grime from the ball socket on the pan, it was pretty obvious at some point in its existence by the amount o...
- Sat Feb 01, 2020 9:56 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Paint
- Replies: 3
- Views: 2040
Re: Paint
Gloss black.
- Sat Feb 01, 2020 7:50 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 26-27 accessory bumpers nickel or chrome?
- Replies: 16
- Views: 5832
Re: 26-27 accessory bumpers nickel or chrome?
I had long discussion with the plating guy I take my stuff to on the original processes used back in the day. He's also a car guy and a collector. He told me one of the major problems with the longevity of factory plated nickel parts is that most of those parts were "flash plated". The parts were cl...
- Thu Jan 30, 2020 11:58 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: FRANK TAYLOR SCAM?
- Replies: 6
- Views: 3246
Re: FRANK TAYLOR SCAM?
I always have some fun with them and tell them it will take 10 business days to clear the check after deposit and then the funds will be available for the transaction. Strangely enough they don't like that idea.
- Thu Jan 30, 2020 11:46 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 1924 Roadster is it original or a restored?
- Replies: 20
- Views: 6343
Re: 1924 Roadster is it original or a restored?
Never seen a '24 engine painted Moleskin. Didn't get a real close look at the common sense fasteners, but they look chromed. Most of that type of vintage hardware I've seen has been nickel plated. Still, it looks like a nice car. But original...no.
- Thu Jan 09, 2020 10:30 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: ...Holy switch, Batman!!!!!
- Replies: 18
- Views: 5863
Re: ...Holy switch, Batman!!!!!
The other advantage of using a solenoid is that you can connect connect an in-line fuse in a weather proof holder under the car bewteen the battery and the footswitch (from there connected to the ignition switch) and have an easy method to disable electrical system of the car. No more worries about ...
- Thu Jan 09, 2020 7:29 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: ...Holy switch, Batman!!!!!
- Replies: 18
- Views: 5863
Re: ...Holy switch, Batman!!!!!
Easy way to determine if the starter has a dead short is to remove the positive cable connected to the starter and insulating it so its not grounded, then hitting the switch briefly. If nothing happens, then the starter probably has a dead short someplace. If the problem persists, check switch or wi...
- Sat Dec 28, 2019 6:16 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Fordite Steering Wheel
- Replies: 6
- Views: 3558
Re: Fordite Steering Wheel
I have followed Dan's routine, and then use successive coats of semi-gloss water based poly. Seals up the Fordite and leaves it with a nice, but not too shiny finish.
- Sun Dec 08, 2019 6:48 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: sinking cork
- Replies: 7
- Views: 3425
Re: sinking cork
Got news for you...those black floats are made of a material called "nitrophyl" . Notice they are listed as "alcohol resistant", not alcohol proof. They too will absorb fuel and get heavy over a fairly short time. And it happens with non-oxygenated fuels as well. Had lots of trouble with them in var...
- Thu Nov 21, 2019 6:47 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: generator problems must be contagious
- Replies: 3
- Views: 2081
Re: generator problems must be contagious
What I have found is that if you find a place that knows how to repair older tractor electrical systems, there's a pretty good chance they understand the Model T's three brush system. Establishments that deal only with modern automotive electrical systems rarely have a clue how to deal with generato...
- Mon Nov 18, 2019 7:49 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Oil Leak coming from weep hole in starter
- Replies: 3
- Views: 2376
Re: Oil Leak coming from weep hole in starter
The shaft bushing is worn and needs replacement. The vendors sell a bushing kit that includes an oil seal that is pressed into the nose cone that stops oil leaks well.
https://www.modeltford.com/item/5105SK.aspx
https://www.modeltford.com/item/5105SK.aspx
- Sun Nov 17, 2019 6:45 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: ***1926-1927 Cowl Mounted Fuel Tank***
- Replies: 29
- Views: 9710
Re: ***1926-1927 Cowl Mounted Fuel Tank***
Dan, Thanks! Your memory is a whole lot better than mine. I have no explanation for the differences but only having one part number either. All I can tell you from experience is the tanks aren't interchangeable.
- Sun Nov 17, 2019 11:02 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: ***1926-1927 Cowl Mounted Fuel Tank***
- Replies: 29
- Views: 9710
Re: ***1926-1927 Cowl Mounted Fuel Tank***
Martynn, Excellent work! I have always admired your ability to work with complex software and generate those drawings. One thing that I can add is that there are two different tanks I have run across. The '26 Improved Car fuel tanks from the Touring and Tudor models are not interchangeable. The slop...
- Wed Oct 23, 2019 7:04 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: How cold do you drive?
- Replies: 88
- Views: 21357
Re: How cold do you drive?
Coldest drive yet:43 degrees. Not much fun. The biggest challenge up here isn't necessarily the cold, its road salt. Not willing to subject my T to that so it goes into storage in late October and doesn't emerge until late April.
- Wed Oct 09, 2019 7:31 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Buying on Craig's List
- Replies: 69
- Views: 20572
Re: Buying on Craig's List
Don't do it!! Unless you have someone there on-site where the car resides that knows Model T's and you trust to handle a cash transaction, avoid. Craigslist is full of scammers and swindlers. I bought my first Model T off a Craigslist ad, but I went there cash in hand, personally inspected the car, ...
- Sun Oct 06, 2019 7:00 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Is a water pump necessary?
- Replies: 39
- Views: 11259
Re: Is a water pump necessary?
Yes! I have a water pump. Last I looked, its laying in a pile of crap someplace in the back of my garage. My car runs fine without it.
- Sun Oct 06, 2019 6:54 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: What type of grease do you use in your bearings?
- Replies: 9
- Views: 3916
Re: What type of grease do you use in your bearings?
I put red high temp wheel bearing grease in the front bearings, but I hand pack those. Most of my other grease cups have zerks in them, so I just use synthetic marine wheel bearing grease in there...since that's what I keep in the grease gun and have plenty of tubes of it on hand.
- Mon Sep 30, 2019 8:16 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Cold weather storage tips please
- Replies: 14
- Views: 5524
Re: Cold weather storage tips please
I'm way far north of most folks. My car stays in an unheated garage from roughly mid-October until it emerges in mid-April. I make a habit of draining the fuel from the entire fuel system. Just put it in my truck and use it up. I too put the car upon jack stands and take the air pressure down to 10 ...
- Sat Sep 21, 2019 8:03 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Ford primer color
- Replies: 11
- Views: 5739
Re: Ford primer color
I have an early '26 Tudor that was a December 1925 production unit. The car went through a couple really bad "restorations" on the exterior, but not on the interior (other than seat upholstery). After removing the interior panels I discovered the car has the original rack numbers chalked on the insi...
- Fri Sep 06, 2019 7:08 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 6 VOLT STARTING PROBLEM.
- Replies: 4
- Views: 2716
Re: 6 VOLT STARTING PROBLEM.
If your connections are good, consider an Optima Red top 6v battery next time you need one. Yes, they cost more...but they last longer and have 800 CCA. Most 6v batteries have 600 CCA. Those extra cold cranking amps really roll it over.
- Sat Aug 31, 2019 7:15 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 12 volt Question
- Replies: 22
- Views: 7201
Re: 12 volt Question
Yep! That's how you do it. Takes one heck of a hot soldering iron to get good connections. Its kinda of a headache, but it will be much nicer on your starter. I have lots of friends who have 12 volt system on their cars. They claim not to have issues with their bendix components. However I am stayin...
- Tue Aug 27, 2019 9:28 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: LED Headlights
- Replies: 34
- Views: 11799
Re: LED Headlights
Anybody find and use some LED brake/tail bulbs that work well in daylight? Have a set of single socket/dual pin tails (original tail lights) for the Tudor. In the Touring I have a split function tail light (separate sockets for tail and brake light bulbs). Would like to upgrade those to LED as well....
- Mon Aug 26, 2019 8:18 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Why great cars don't sell?
- Replies: 34
- Views: 10777
Re: Why great cars don't sell?
I'm not sure the demand is there any more. From the pages of Econ 101: demand and availability determines price. At every price there is a buyer; fewer at higher prices, more at lesser prices. Several years ago when I was looking for my first Model T I went over to a place that advertised classic ca...
- Fri Aug 23, 2019 9:21 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Generator Rebuild
- Replies: 8
- Views: 3933
Re: Generator Rebuild
Outside of the recommendations already listed, you might want to ask around if there's a long established electrical shop that does lots of old tractor work. I found one under an hour's drive from me that was familiar with Model T generators, starters, and bolt on magnetos/distributors. The old gent...
- Tue Aug 20, 2019 7:39 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Found Inside a Coil
- Replies: 5
- Views: 3310
Re: Found Inside a Coil
You can sure tell penmanship was still taught in schools back then.
- Sat Aug 10, 2019 9:14 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Question on Oil Fill Timers...
- Replies: 21
- Views: 7311
Re: Question on Oil Fill Timers...
Art are you talking (or writing) about the cam gear cover that has the oil filler cap, or the timer cover itself? Might be able to help if I can figure out exactly what you want.
- Wed Jul 24, 2019 9:20 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Stale gasoline disposal
- Replies: 18
- Views: 6815
Re: Stale gasoline disposal
I you are in an area where its allowed, stale gas is great for burning brush piles. I use it as a cleaner too. Then it goes to the brush pile!
- Sat Jul 20, 2019 7:34 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Iola, adios.
- Replies: 7
- Views: 4548
Re: Iola, adios.
My impression of Iola pretty much mirror's Steve's: it was a lot of walking for darn little benefit. I saw very few pre-war parts and little that interested me as a Model T guy. The admission price isn't a big deal for me, but the lack of parts is. Unless I get interested in muscle cars and custom b...
- Wed Jul 10, 2019 8:03 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Interesting article on ZDDP in oil
- Replies: 3
- Views: 2482
Re: Interesting article on ZDDP in oil
Longtime Amsoil customer here: I don't see much if any benefits of using zddp in Model T oils aside from break-in. My rebuilder gave me a vial of it to add to my conventional oil for break-in. My engine broke-in at about 90 miles. You could tell: the engine temp dropped about 20 degrees once the rin...
- Tue Jul 09, 2019 8:40 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Northern ILL to KY or TN...?
- Replies: 13
- Views: 5103
Re: Northern ILL to KY or TN...?
Did you talk Bob's about securing it to a pallet and shipping via Fastenall? Rockford is a pretty good sized town so there has to be one fairly close to Loves Park.
- Sat Jul 06, 2019 7:30 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: 6 volt battery dilemma
- Replies: 21
- Views: 9003
Re: 6 volt battery dilemma
Got an Optima Red Top 6 volt battery three years ago. No checking electrolyte...ever. Has more CCA than any farm store battery. They are not cheap. But in this case you get what you pay for.
- Fri Jun 28, 2019 7:31 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Some reassembly required
- Replies: 10
- Views: 5451
Re: Some reassembly required
Steve, you will love the SCAT crank. Engine runs smoother and no more worries about participating in the two-piece lottery.
- Mon Jun 24, 2019 9:23 pm
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Coolant in thermosiphon systems
- Replies: 22
- Views: 8189
Re: Coolant in thremosiphon systems
Tim, You're right on Lake Superior. Just use some of that water. That lake hardly ever freezes.
- Sun Jun 23, 2019 8:25 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Changing to a H/C Head, The Basics?
- Replies: 11
- Views: 5482
Re: Changing to a H/C Head, The Basics?
Had the Prus head on my car for going on 4 years. Had a z head before. Prus head is a noticeable difference. I run the timing advanced about half way through the quadrant in town or just putting down country roads. But if the speed builds up to around 25 mph, I advance fully to almost within a few c...
- Sun Jun 23, 2019 8:14 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Coolant in thermosiphon systems
- Replies: 22
- Views: 8189
Re: Coolant in thremosiphon systems
I run mine closer to 40/60% antifreeze adjusted to -47. Yep! It can get darn cold up here in the tundra. And "no", I don't drive it in the winter. It lives in an unheated garage from mid-October until mid-April. I have a good flat tube radiator and the car never overheats even when we get into the o...
- Sat Jun 15, 2019 7:07 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: recommendation on 6 volt battery purchase
- Replies: 17
- Views: 6850
Re: recommendation on 6 volt battery purchase
Looks like a standard tractor battery. I have never gotten any more than three years out of them. Cells seem prone to shorting out. Paid up for a Optima Red Top 6 volt sealed battery. End of issues. And at 850 CCA as opposed to most other farm batteries 600 CCA, it rolls the engine over faster and i...
- Wed Jun 12, 2019 8:01 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: How much time have you got ??
- Replies: 23
- Views: 8462
Re: How much time have you got ??
Lots of times it comes down to priorities. For some folks Model T's are the passion of their lives. For me its more of an interest. If I have wood to cut, house chores to accomplish, or other obligations, I don't feel bad if the Model T stays in the garage. I have one driver and another "project" ca...
- Mon Jun 10, 2019 7:59 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: T for sale
- Replies: 8
- Views: 5362
Re: T for sale
Well, to start with its not "very original". And I agree, the price is questionable.
- Mon Jun 10, 2019 7:53 am
- Forum: General Discussion Forum
- Topic: Best oil, I’m almost afraid to ask...
- Replies: 43
- Views: 12601
Re: Best oil, I’m almost afraid to ask...
There really is no "best" oil for your Model T. Its more a question of preference, and some oils containing friction reducers should probably be avoided. Any good quality multi-grade or straight grade (in warmer temps) will work fine. Yes, detergent oils are better than non-detergent oils particular...