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Old 05-24-2020, 02:33 PM   #1
Model_A
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Default Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

Hi all. New guy from FL here. About to take posession of the Model A that has been in my family since basically the 1930s. It was a runner/driver as recently as the 90's but has been sitting and will need work. There are also some other quirks, etc. I'll know more when it arrives and I'm sure I'll probably be a regular member around here as the restoration commences.

Knowing my own limitations, I'm going to have the engine rebuilt. I'd like to get the car reliable enough that I can take it for 2 hour roundtrip drives to my cabin without having to worry.

I've used the search function and also Googled for more info (which is how I found this forum) but I'd be interested in hearing direct feedback from forum members about the various people/businesses that offer rebuilding Model A plants as a service. Is there an 'obviously right choice' among them? I'd also like any advice on what 'options' and upgrades beyond a standard service are worthwhile/important.

While originality is somewhat important, the absolute most important thing is reliability, so I'm willing to have upgrades/modernization performed if it will make the care more reliable.

Thanks for any help!
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Old 05-24-2020, 03:02 PM   #2
Chris in WNC
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

James Rogers in Asheville NC is the closest rebuilder I would recommend.
contact the nearest Model A club and find a mentor.
where are you in FL? if near Jacksonville I can recommend one.....

plenty of previous posts on this board regarding upgrades/modifications for dependable touring......
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Old 05-24-2020, 03:22 PM   #3
alexiskai
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

James is down to part-time last I heard. Phone is probably the best way to reach him. 828-775-1257
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Old 05-24-2020, 03:31 PM   #4
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

Find a Florida A club and join it.
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Old 05-24-2020, 03:53 PM   #5
Kurt in NJ
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

buy a new cam --or find a NOS(or stipe) "B" cam-not reground
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Old 05-24-2020, 07:02 PM   #6
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

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Quote:
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where are you in FL? if near Jacksonville I can recommend one.....

Thanks! Very near Jacksonville. St Augustine to be exact, so Jax works great. Fire away!
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Old 05-24-2020, 08:11 PM   #7
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

I can tell you what modernization's to avoid.

Don't do 'modern' points plates.
Don't do modern seals on the rear main bearing.
Everyone i know that tried them, has regretted doing those.

If the generator cut-out is malfunctioning, you can rebuild them. Or keep it for later and install a regulator kind that looks like the original cutout, if you can find one.
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Old 05-24-2020, 08:21 PM   #8
chrs1961815
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

Original distributor setup and the Nurex plates work fine if properly done with right parts and installation. No need for modern really. The only other type I would use would be a mallory or maybe a Model B distributor if you would want no manual spark advance.
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Old 05-24-2020, 09:24 PM   #9
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

Welcome to the Barn and your new addiction! Here are my suggestions:


-Join a local club
-Get your car and drain all fluids replace tranny/differential (same oils)
-Drop the pan and clean it out along with the valve galley-reinstall pan and add fresh oil.

-Make sure brakes are up to snuff and working correctly
-Get Les Andrews books
-Learn to drive your car and get to know her quirks
-Clean out the gas tank

-Make sure the wiring is good-add a fuse if you want





as far as upgrades, this is what I did to my car:
-Snyders 5.5 head
-Lightened the flywheel about 15 lbs.
-Counterbalanced crank
-I have modern points but will probably go back to a stock set up for ease of adjusting.
-Get a Model B (have to bore out the intake manifold) or Tillotson or Marvel Carb.


I drive on the freeway at 50-55 depending on how fast she wants to go. I have driven to Washington that way so she is reliable.


Mike
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Old 05-25-2020, 02:37 AM   #10
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

Quote:
Originally Posted by chrs1961815 View Post
Original distributor setup and the Nurex plates work fine if properly done with right parts and installation. No need for modern really. The only other type I would use would be a mallory or maybe a Model B distributor if you would want no manual spark advance.
Or not even the model B distributor with my latest gadget. I'll get it presentable & show ya'll.
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#1 Fun is imperative, mainstream is overrated
#2 If they think it is impossible, prove them wrong
#3 If the science says it impossible you are not being creative enough.
#4 No shame in recreating something you never had
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Old 05-25-2020, 07:06 AM   #11
30 Closed Cab PU
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

Quote:
Originally Posted by chrs1961815 View Post
Original distributor setup and the Nurex plates work fine if properly done with right parts and installation. No need for modern really. The only other type I would use would be a mallory or maybe a Model B distributor if you would want no manual spark advance.



Not sure about all Nu-Rex, but definitely had problems with the Nu-Rex wireless conversion plates setup. Have heard others -some have been OK and others have also had issues. The wireless mechanical connection between the plates wear causing poor connection to the points. Causes various odd issues.
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Old 05-25-2020, 08:52 AM   #12
Chris in WNC
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

I have sent you a private message with northeast FL contact information......
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Old 05-25-2020, 10:48 AM   #13
Jim Brierley
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Default Re: Hi all. New guy. Model A engine rebuilder questions.

Nothing wrong with re-ground cams, just start with a decent core. Have fun!
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