04-05-2017, 09:22 AM | #1 |
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Overheasting
My '31 has had an overheating problem as long as I've owned it....before and after I converted to 12v and electronic ignition. Its got a C head as well. Had the radiator cleaned/ rodded out. I wondered if timing could be a problem so I installed a timing indicator and marked the flywheel pulley so I could check with a timing light. At low Idle ignition is about 18 degrees ATDC. With higher RPM it goes to about 8 BTDC. Probably not looking in the right places but I cant find anywhere the proper numbers. Appreciate any guidance!
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04-05-2017, 09:40 AM | #2 |
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Re: Overheasting
That seems like retarded timing which can certainly cause overheating. Better contact your ignition manufacturer and see what they think. Does it seem low on power?
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04-05-2017, 09:48 AM | #3 |
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Re: Overheasting
Thanks Art...I would have thought too advanced would cause overheating more likely but perhaps either will do it. Car starts and seems to run great and also have as much power as I would expect from a 40 HP engine. Will do as you suggest and call ignition manufacturer.
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04-05-2017, 09:55 AM | #4 |
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Re: Overheasting
Normal A timing is set at TDC with lever set at full retarded position.
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04-05-2017, 10:28 AM | #5 |
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Re: Overheasting
Sounds like time to buy you a new radiator or have it recored .
Not many radiator shops actually Rod out a radiator properly . If you have always had an overheating problem , , buy you a new radiator . ,.,. ,
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04-05-2017, 11:16 AM | #6 |
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Re: Overheasting
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With the C head it should be about 15* for idle, and in the 20's for driving. With my stock head I set it 20* for idle and 30* max for driving. |
04-05-2017, 11:47 AM | #7 |
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Re: Overheasting
You didn't mention your carburetor; too lean will also make it run hot.
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04-05-2017, 12:09 PM | #8 |
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Re: Overheasting
Pick up a $30 infra red thermometer at Harbor Freight and SHOOT the radiator when warmed up to see if there are any COLD SPOTS which would indicate clogs in the radiator. There should be a consistent drop in temp from top to bottom. If clogged you might have to purchase a new radiator since you have already went through the rodding fix.
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04-05-2017, 12:26 PM | #9 |
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Re: Overheasting
From what u posted your timing is way off. Fix this first
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04-05-2017, 01:06 PM | #10 |
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Re: Overheasting
The most COMMON cause of overheating is rust flakes stuck in the upper end of the radiator tubes. BACK FLUSH IT.
Bill Cool
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04-05-2017, 07:03 PM | #11 |
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Re: Overheasting
Just a thought model B timing cover would cause the timing to be off? I've heard about it but can't remember which way was what. With timing off that far can't believe it will start let alone run.
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04-05-2017, 09:26 PM | #12 |
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Re: Overheasting
It has been my observation that 90% of all overheating problems in Model A's is a radiator not dissipating heat efficiently.
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04-05-2017, 11:06 PM | #13 |
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Re: Overheasting
Tom, why is that? Compression? I noticed mine doesn't run any better pulled 3/4 of the way down than 1/3 down. 6:1 ratio 100lbs. compression in all 4 cylinders.
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04-06-2017, 12:06 AM | #14 |
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Re: Overheasting
Higher compression burns faster, so it needs less spark advance. My engine has 50 PSI on all 4.
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04-06-2017, 06:32 AM | #15 |
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Re: Overheasting
Ford spec for a C model head idle 18 deg BTDC - 34 BTDC deg total
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04-06-2017, 07:12 AM | #16 |
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Re: Overheasting
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04-06-2017, 07:22 AM | #17 |
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Re: Overheasting
I have a Stude. that ran hot for years even after the radiator was so called cleaned,tried everything else and finally replaced the radiator in desperation,that solved the problem.
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