The Ford Barn

Ed in Maine · 06-06-2021, 08:40 AM

I have never done this with my Model A. I do own a 1914 Model T that must be hand cranked but I make sure that the timing is past TDC at the moment of spark. Starting my Model T is easy and a safe experience.

Can anyone comment on the Model A after it is timed by the book how the crank feels with spark fully retarded. Does the normal timing adjustment get the spark past TDC so that there is no sudden engine bucking or worse?

If you know you would like to occasionally use the crank, to be super safe, is there any benefit to time the car with the spark level down 1 or 2 clicks so that you are absolutely positive you are past TDC with the spark lever fully up? Ed

06-06-2021, 08:40 AM	#1
Ed in Maine Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Washington Cty., ME or Flagler Cty., FL Posts: 1,106	Starting the Model A with a crank I have never done this with my Model A. I do own a 1914 Model T that must be hand cranked but I make sure that the timing is past TDC at the moment of spark. Starting my Model T is easy and a safe experience. Can anyone comment on the Model A after it is timed by the book how the crank feels with spark fully retarded. Does the normal timing adjustment get the spark past TDC so that there is no sudden engine bucking or worse? If you know you would like to occasionally use the crank, to be super safe, is there any benefit to time the car with the spark level down 1 or 2 clicks so that you are absolutely positive you are past TDC with the spark lever fully up? Ed