The manifold clamp controversy rages on.

[Steve Jelf]

Well, not really a controversy but a question. When did they start putting the clamps on "backwards"? Maybe somebody who's a better researcher than I am can find some documentation.

[ModelTWoods]

Well Steve, I guess you are referring to the 'late' manifold clamps, as the early ones don't have two flat surfaces opposite each other. As for the late clamps, I guess they could be used either way, but with the recessed V, pointed toward the block, they will go on a standard length manifold stud. If they are reversed with the V pointed away from the block, I think a longer manifold stud would be needed. Date of change, I don't know. Maybe sometime in 1925. Maybe T Encyclopedia knows.

[Steve Jelf]

Maybe T Encyclopedia knows.

It may be in there, but I didn't find it.

[jiminbartow]

According to the “Model T Service Manual”, Here is the way it was done in the 1920’s. Jim Patrick

[Rich Eagle]

"I think these changed in '24? or '23? Anyone know the cut off date for using the pad type clamps?"
http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/11 ... 1276305342
It may still be up in the air.
Rich

[DanTreace]

The recessed new style clamp was used beginning with the 1924 model year, which was late in calendar year 1923.

[Rich Eagle]

Thanks for that Dan.
Rich

[Dropacent]

Another ford better idea! And they saved $$, from a forging to a casting !

[Jerry VanOoteghem]

Another ford better idea! And they saved $$, from a forging to a casting !

Tim,

I would expect that they're both forgings. Do you have some info regarding the change to a casting?

[Dropacent]

Jerry, it was just a SWAG guess and a poor one. I’m holding a good late one in my hand it it has ford script and a foundry cartouche, so obviously a forging.

[CudaMan]

I wonder if the January 1924 engine in Betsy should have the later clamps. It came to me with the longer studs and the older style clamps.

[Allan]

Mark, you're worried about the correct manifold clamps and studs and they sit above an alternator. I don't understand. An alternator is a major departure from originality, so having the correct manifold clamps is hardly going to make the engine bay any more authentic.

Allan from down under.

[CudaMan]

Guilty as charged! The car came to me with the alternator already installed.

I have a Ron Patterson freshly rebuilt generator and a Regan 6V negative ground voltage regulator on the shelf for the day when the 6V alternator dies.

Trouble is, the alternator refuses to die and it works great, it keeps the battery topped off without boiling the water out of it.

Since my car is already corrupted with an alternator, maybe I should go all in and install a pair of neon green windshield wipers and some fuzzy dice on it as well (that's a joke, son).