oil plug 59ab
 

Ok folks,
Here is my question: There is a little plug behind the timing gear that has a stub shaft on it. What is it's purpose other than to close that end of the pipe oil flow? It doesn't seem to effect the pressure relief system. A mystery?? Not a good focus but maybe you can help. Thanks
John
http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w...&1420508985021

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

It plugs the front of the oil gallery, and provides access to clean out the gallery during overhaul. We also remove the plugs from a crankshaft before grinding, then tap the holes to insert plugs. It is surprising how much crud is found in the oil passages in a vrank.

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

Don't know what the little stub on the end is suppose to do but I have used them and I have also used just as pipe plug with no ill effects.

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

Well, there is some reason Ford made that little extention on that plug, I think it has something to do with that hole that goes down to the front cam bearing and feed the front main. I no, I've seem them with just the 1/8 pipe plug and don't seem make any difference. Has anyone got the tel no? I want to make a long distance call to Henry Ford and ask him about that plug. Walt

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

Superial, I'm sure you know his 59AB does not have clean out plugs in the crank like the 8BA crank. Speaking of 8BA engine, the line plug behind the cam gear is 3/8 thin pipe plug, it don't have that little extention like the 59ab plug. Funny a little thing like that keep us wondering. Walt

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

On this subject, how many of you rebuilders drill a .060 hole in that plug for a little extra lubrication for the cam gear? Before anyone says that this will ruin oil pressure, I did it on the 8BA in my '36 and it runs down the road with at least 45 psi when warm. I saw the suggestion for this modification in the Aussie's book.

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

Right, Walt, but we drill and tap to get the passages clear before we grind the crank. It should be added that we rebalance the crank to accomodate the revision. The early engines get new valve seats and straight stem valves will seals on the intakes, along with adjustable lifters.

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

John, I had posted this same question with pictures many years ago on the old Fordbarn. None of the engine guru's on FB at that time could explain what that extended diameter on the front galley plug was for either. Most said they used a standard threaded plug w/o that extension on their rebuilds. All the original '35 to '48 engines that I have taken apart had that special plug. As someone already said, Henry would not have spent $/¢'s using that plug unless it had some good purpose. I always use that plug (as shown in your picture) on any early (pre 8ba) engines that go in my cars.

Re: oil plug 59ab
 

I always figured the extra length stub was just to hold the galley tube a bit more stable. On the drilling a hole idea, it might be OK for an 8BA but It seems like the pressure relief valve dumps its excess pressure into that area on the 59A & earlier blocks so it wouldn't be necessary. Oil pressure slinging from the front cam bearing & main bearing is probably enough to oil the timing gears. These old engines never had a lot of oil pressure and it just drops lower as things get worn more.