MTFCA Forum

Everyone says use a late crank but I can't find how to tell the early from late or how to id a EE crank, I think I know which is which but I want to be sure. Explaination with pictures would be appreciated. Thanks.

It has the letters EE forged into the flat surface of the crank.
Norm

Pre 1926 crankshafts have a "diamond" shaped throw between journals - '26 - '27 AA & EE cranks have parallel shaped throw. I have both EE cranks that have forged EE in the throw & EE stamped into the front where the fan drive pulley mounts.

And as much as we like to tell ourselves they are the better of the cranks, they still will break A few scats have been known to too.

Most important thing is to get the crank magnafluxed and discard if cracks are found. Next importance is not to lug the engine in high, especially when pulling hills. Higher compression heads or other speed equipment could also be a problem when lugging the engine. Better to shift down or use a Ruckstell or other transmission with a range between low and high.
Norm

Here are some images

Thank you all for responding and the info, just to make sure I have it. The early cranks have the diamond shaped throws and they were used up to 1925. The later cranks have parallel sided throws and the EE cranks are the later cranks and have the EE forged into the side of one of the throws and on the front end of the crank. Thanks again , Dennis

I don’t send anything but late style cranks to my grinder anymore. The earlier ones are usually cracked or worn beyond use and even if they are not they are inferior to late ones. Many of my customers are opting for the Scat crank. An excellent choice, the best available by far if you have the means. I have personally put in a dozen or more. I know of two that have broken. Both were subjected to horrific abuse.

After checking for cracks, I suggest that the most important thing is to ensure that the 4th main - and indeed the other 3 - are all in line.
I have my doubts about the often-recommended method of standing the engine/transmission on its nose. When you put the unit in the car, the weight of the transmission will cause the pressed crankcase to sag at least a tiny bit. Unless it's a 26-27 with those useful extra lugs.

I have seen so many of the early style that have been ground for balancing and it is no wonder they crack when 1/4 if the throw is ground off.