MTFCA Forum

I put a 12 tooth pinion in my Ruckstell about 2 years ago for a 3.23 gear ratio. I had to make a .062 shim for the ring gear and now have about 0.010 clearance.

Consider burnishing with stainless steel burnishing balls. It gives a hardened mirror like finish to the bushings and presses them into the bearings.

My Father -in-law spent many summers on the prairie 30 miles from the nearest town in a sheep wagon watching the herd. They used our 1923 touring to retrieve lambs that wandered and to go back to the ranch or town for provisions.

The '26 engine I just pulled from my 16 would run on mag but would not start with properly tuned coils and 40psi compression across all 4 cylinders. Perhaps it is due to the .026" play in the 3rd main.

Norm and Dolores were kind and gracious enough to offer the back seat of their touring to Teresa and I on the San Diego tour 2 years ago. I had read his posts for years and was honored to meet him and his wonderful wife. We were their guests for 2 days of touring and witnessed his love for the regio...

I had to temporarily swap a 26 engine in my 23 touring when I wrecked a rod a week before a tour. I had to custom make the floorboards to fit the 23 floor and 26 pedals.

My father taught me to return a tool, or wagon, or anything borrowed in BETTER condition than when borrowed. that might include replacing a worn wheel or fixing a loose axle, cleaning scuff marks, or replacing a worn bolt.

I've used the strap on lady's handbags purchased for under $5 at Hospice, Goodwill, or thrift stores.

Does having an aluminum head influence the decision? Just asking.

REALLY high compression head??

This car was produced November of 1908. Is it even considered an 09? If it is not the Holy Grail, it is at least one of the wineglasses used by the 12!

You can find wire wheels for 26-27 fairly easily. BUT you will need different front and rear hubs which aren’t cheap. I did it but would consider new wood spokes if I did it again. A lot depends on if you like the appearance of wood vs wire spokes.

To reiterate Kurt's comments, The type of front shock absorber is very important. ALL Model T shock absorbers were aftermarket, as no Ford left the factory with them. We had an individual killed when his front shock broke, causing the spring to become separated from the axle and the car rolled.

My Leon Parker 1923-25 touring modified plans are copyrighted 1987. My understanding is that copyright holds for 70 years after the author's death, so i cannot legally sell them. I do believe, however, that I can "loan" them to someone for their use. I might ask shipping and return and a donation to...

Blair, I am under the impression that the white sealant tape that appears on your potato is not gasoline resistant, and that you need to use the yellow with gasoline or oil. I may be mistaken. Noel

I have a set that Leon Parker added notes to. I don't know if there is better fitting after his modifications.

PM sent to BuddytheRoadster.

I took the plunge and rebuilt 8 coils with new capacitors, tuned with an ECCT. 4 for a poor north Dakota dirt farmer

and 4 for me.

As an aside, slightly related, we filled a 4-man life raft with helium in the 70's to lighten it for a 2-man 100-mile race down the Missouri river. The smaller atom size leaked through the rubber much faster than atmospheric air. We had to air up to stiffen the raft numerous times during the race. W...

Nicely done!

My "new to me" '16 has a cast bracket with 2 bolts going through the top of the frame rail, and 3 bolts going through the firewall.

Our 1923 touring, in the family since 1926, still had the plugs on the top saddle holes.

I LOVE THIS FORUM!! First, the OP wrote in asking for advice on respoking a non-demountable wheel, then several US members suggested US wheelwrights. Then someone astutely noted that the OP is in Germany. Finally, a European member gave advice and contact information on European wheelwrights. I'm al...

The Western Idaho Model T Club. They don't have a website but have a Facebook page. They're centered on Boise.

I'm currently finishing out Dave Currier's Board term and hoping for another term (Hint, Hint!). We have discussed this issue numerous times and believe that promoting this hobby is one of our primary objectives. We feel that the forum is a valuable tool to encourage membership of those both new and...

I don't know if it's true but the welder that was repairing a long crack in the top of the valve galley in my 26 block (in the usual place) told me there was a small crack above my freeze plug. He assumed it was from the nickel being harder than the block and cracking when the nickel was straightened.

Checked the oil and water, filled the tank, and took my '20 Roadster on a 54 mile each way trip to join the local "Streetmasters" car club on a drive to Murdo, SD. Ate lunch then toured Pioneer Auto Museum for a few hours. They have old cars, tractors, pickups, and motorcycles, including a 1902 Olds...

I use Allstar performance extreme pressure lube about $18 on amazon. 4 ounces will last several lifetimes. give some to friends.

Did your tires find a ride? We’re at Hershey and can pick them up if needed. Noel

Welcome all to our tent in the North Chocolate field, C4Q 38-39. We have a transmission display and a demonstration of re-spoking wheels using the Reagan spoke press by George Akins at 10:00. Information on front end alignment will be done through the day. Come for coffee and donuts in the morning. ...

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I had a No. 2 rod that looked like that several years ago. A week before the Hamilton tour I tightened up some slightly loose rods, put it together, and had a rod knock at about 30 seconds of running. Maybe I forgot to put my usual "motor honey" on the rod cap on re-assembly. Maybe I adjusted it too...

It’s a bit out of our way but if nobody else responds it’s doable.

This is a duplicate thread BUT: The MTFCA tents are in the North Chocolate field, C4Q 38-39. Please come join us. There will be a general membership meeting and group photo at 2:00 PM Thursday, October 9 We will try to have coffee and donuts each morning until they are gone! There will be several cl...

The Vintage Ford magazine was sent out 2 weeks ago but still hasn't arrived in numerous places, including mine, due to our wonderful postal service. There is info in the magazine BUT: The MTFCA tents are in the North Chocolate field, C4Q 38-39. Please come join us. There will be a general membership...

I see no mention of timing, running on battery vs magneto, or advancing the spark after the engine is running.

Most engine rebuilders use new bolts and discard the ones taken out of the Chevys. Since we don't torque near as far, I ask the shops or local mechanics for their used bolts. I'm cheap!

If the engine bearings are all dry, does oil get to the rod bearings with just spinning the crank, assuming no scoops but oil in the dips? What about the piston pins and bushings? Oil to the main bearings? I'm inclined to pull the inspection pan and squirt oil UP to those places, but I'm not a real ...

Are 16’s the same or is there a different rivet pattern?

I don't know if this adds to the discussion or not. I use mostly ethanol containing fuel in my Ts, but store in the winter with non-ethanol gas. I add a few ounces of TCW3 2-stroke oil to each tank of gas. I believe this prevents float valve sticking, fine rust buildup in the tank, and lubes the val...

Dan, I am a strong proponent of the 2-piece transmission shaft. Are you going to do another production run?

I'm still waiting for mine.

If your current engine runs well, I'd use it until it quits. In the meantime, either look for a GOOD engine or have one rebuilt. I've got 2 running 26 engines, the first of which I'm taking out of my 16 to make it correct. HOWEVER, it has cast iron pistons (not a problem), 2-piece valves that tend t...

What type of starter assist is on the first early Ford picture? I see a vertical crank handle above some apparatus.

I swapped the entire steering column on my "23 for a 26 column. I think that's the easiest way. There are several columns on the parts for sale site presently.

Teresa made curtains for our 23 touring and 20 roadster out of clear vinyl, like Wayne. We also used black Naugahyde around the curtains and used double sided zippers for easier entry and exit. They're not stock but I enjoy the improved visibility. Weve used both sets several times on drives and tou...

I researched this years ago with Medtronics. In essence, you MIGHT affect your pacemaker if you lay down with the pacemaker in contact with the hogshead post. Don’t worry about it.

Thanks for the information, Larry. I am rebuilding a 1915 without a atarter, at present. I will look up a 12V Li battery as you say. Noel

Yes, there are drain plug kits. I recently purchased 2 of them. But Bruce wants to get this car going for Father's Day. Since you can see a few threads, it's partially out. Try the putty knives or some thin pry bars simultaneously with unscrewing it. Good luck, Bruce

I changed the oil in the" 20 roadster getting ready for the Stettler tour. I lifted the front end with a floor jack and a piece of landscape timber under the axle. BAD IDEA! As I was walking out of the garage to give it time to drain, the timber rolled and the car came down to where the car was rest...

I also have a set of Mel Miller's plans I acquired from Leon parker in 2004. They are copyright 1970 renewed in 1987. For works created after 1978, the copyright life is 70 years after the death of the author.

If denatured alcohol works so well, why not purchase a couple of gallons of E-85 fuel (55-85% alcohol). Slosh it around inside for a few days. It should work as well and is way cheaper than denatured alcohol at the store.

After dropping a quart of oil on a 70 mile 45mph trip late last summer I decided to put a seal in my starter's snout. I followed Ron Patterson's excellent instructions. Maybe now the underside of my 20 Roadster will be drier. Noel

As an aside, Noah rebuilt my '16 non-demountable wheels last summer. I dropped them off on my way to Hershey and picked them up on my return. His son was also in the shop working. It looks like we'll have many more years of his family's quality work! Noel

Thank you, Scott. I enjoy and pay attention to your science-based comments. I look forward to your knowledge shared with us. Noel

If I remember correctly, Rod's tank is mounted further back on the frame. Noel

I've seen this idea elsewhere and am glad you put it on your hack. No more need to be towed out of deep, off the tour route hollers in Tennessee!

Does this mean that if I am driving ANY vehicle with tires over 4 years old that I am liable for any accident that occurs? It looks like I need to stop driving all my vehicles.

they are on back-order, possibly not available for 6 months. I've got 2 on this backorder.

Willy, it doesn't matter how fast you are going. You're driving a Model T. You're already where you want to be!
Noel

Charlie, This is a family oriented forum. Please refraine from usig the "Ch..." word in futire posts.

Willie, You've got a good looking Coupe. Hopefully I'll get mine looking as good. Your NH carburetor should be able to get over 15 mpg especially with your high compression head. I have 2 Z heads and a Prus, and find the spark position is not terribly critical, as long as it's near the mid quadrant,...

A hubcap. You'd need to fill the center and drill/thread it.

Dave, my comment wasn't derogatory but went sideways from the request by the administrator to not post "from the peanut gallery" comments unless we had an interest in purchase of this car. After posting I reviewed Jeff's request and deleted my comment. I think this Fordor looks like a great car but ...

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It looks ike the ones we used for hot vulcanizing rubber tubes

e-mail sent

Picture #6 with the family could be my wife's grandpa, grandma, aunt, and uncle or dad in the T on the prairie North of Newell, SD. Down to the plug in the side where the top bracket would fit. However, it looks high hood and theirs was an April 23 car.

Chad, I believe the error was because the pictures weren"t specifically Model Ts.

what is the crank accessory on the 3rd pic?

I have to check the box about half the time. It's still faster than it used to ne. Loading times are also faster. Thanks Chris!!!

Dang, that"s pretty, Gator!

Should I use "Extra Virgin" olive oil if my T has been "around the block" a few times?

Is extra virgin olive oil of higher moral quality?

I've got 5 Ts and I'm cheap! I use the cheapest oil I can find. I recycle the synthetic oil from my moderns after 10K miles and feed my Ts. I figure if it's rated to 15,000 miles it should be good for another 500 in a T. It's been filtered for 10,000 miles and is just a little black. "It's probably ...

Send them to me. PM sent

do you know if it had a recent transmission removal or teardown? I wonder of the triple gears aren't aligned properly or a clutch plate is hung up.

Mike, you live in an area with hills and mointains,, You'll love, and perhaps need, your Ruckstell to not have to climb those hills in low gear. Your saving grace is that it's a lightweight roadster. They aren't that difficult to rebuild if you choose to do so before driving much. Also, if you don't...

a Ruckstell only has one babbit rear thrust washer. Fortunately, the thrust bearing on the shifter side somewhat prevents movement in that direction and prevemns ring and pinion separation. I'd still disassemble it and check it before driving over a few blocks. Someone left the inner Hiatt out of mi...

I've lapped several similar fuel valves with timesaver then used EZ turn. They don't leak and turn well. Unfortunately, it only comes in a large 5 oz tube that will take me 5 lifetimes to use. I plan on getting some small bottles (prescription bottles?) and give it to friends on tour.

Hotels in Stettler, Alberta are taking reservations for the tour July 13-18. Go to MTFCA.com home page, scroll down and click on Steam 'n T Party-Stettler Alberta. There are Ramada and Can-Alta Stettler direct links and phone numbers. Also, campgrounds, tour registration and information.

FYI, Sacramento Vintage Ford has them for the 13-16 fenders. They're backordered at present, but they told me they should have them in 2-3 weeks. Noel

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Getting ready to stain and paint my recently rebuilt Stutzman wheels for my new-to-me 16 roadster.

I've purchased some surprisingly good used wrenches at pawn shops. Some of the lesser value ones might be had for a quarter.

email sent, Noel

Great write up, Chris!!

Norm, your car runs very well! Teresa and I thank you for the ride this summer.

Since battery horns have a set of points that can arc and pit, thus needing more frequent adjustment, is there any benefit to putting a small condensor on the points? Hey, I'm a doc, not an electrician!

I've taken several apart. They're not that complicated. Maybe you can fix it. What have you got to lose?

I’m working on a 1916 Roadster project. The headlights are not currently wired. I’m contemplating using a small 12 volt battery for initial start before switching to magneto, and LED bulbs in the headlights/taillights. I hope to charge the battery off the mag post. There is no dimmer switch so I pla...

I know the feeling, Vern. Congratulations!!

If they're from "the Coil Doctor", they are adjusted right. Was the engine running recently? compression? I agree that those timer contacts need polishing. Check the timer rotor. You need fuel, timing, and compression.

Please send me 2 kits, Dean. I'll PM my vitals. Noel

I’m asking, not advising. If the engine is locked, such as a broken crankshaft, could you add a gallon or more oil to submerge the transmission and tow in neutral?

To add my 1 1/2 cents to the discussion, I put a high flow intake manifold and Chaffins dual exhaust manifold on our 23 touring. I had been running a Stipes .280 cam, Z head, and NH carb at that time. I noted in putting on the exhaust and intake manifolds my low end torque dropped but my top end inc...

"Starters are highly overrated and, along with generators, are more trouble than they’re worth as far as I’m concerned. I’m 79 and always crank start my T’s, even the two I have with starters. If you take the time to set them up correctly they’re easy enough to start on the crank. I certainly wouldn...

I strongly suspect you don't have a ring gear on your flywheel. Putting one on is a major teardown job. If you had one, you could, in the future, put a starter hogshead on the car and forget about the generator. The battery can be recharged by the magneto. A well-tuned T starts fairly easily with th...

I repeatedly applied a 50/50 mix of ATF and acetone to a badly rusted transmission that had been in the field for 50+ years. After 2 days, it came apart surprisingly easy.

I'll take the Apco pan brackets, Mark. Private message also sent. Noel

After a week of travel and other duties, I pulled the intake on the 16 with the 26-27 engine and watched the valves as my pretty wife hand cranked the car. DARN! It has the 2-piece valves.

Now for more decisions, but nothing solid until after the OCF with the Gumbingers.

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