MTFCA Forum

I got her running today for the first time with water in it since at least the 60's. Ran for 20 minutes really nice. A lot of smoke at first as I had Magic Mystery Oil in the cylinders for the last 6 months, then cleared up and sounded good. I had rebuilt the carburetor and starter. The front end has been redone with a new spring. I have to get a new exhaust manifold as the threads are ruined. I tried one of those clamps that pull the exhaust pipe and manifold together, but couldn't get a good fit.
I turned the key from battery to magneto and it shut off, tried it again and same thing. As this is my first T, I have to dig in a little more. Any suggestions?
I had the rear up on jacks and was able to use the pedals for low, high, reverse and brake, and all seam to work ok, so that's a plus. A little more fine tuning and I'll take it for a ride. All in all a good day.

Congratulations! That's an exciting major step. After you're sure there are no leaks or other troubles, do your old block a favor and switch the water out for coolant and preserve what remains of the integrity of the block for yourself and future generations.

Dan,
The next time you get it running you could put a test light on the mag post and see if it is putting out electricity. Should do even if running on battery. If the mag has power than you may have a problem with your wiring harness and/or ignition switch.

A model T that has been asleep for 60 years may have a lot of things that will need attention:
1) old wiring with broken insulation and corroded terminals
2) corroded internal connections in your ignition switch.
3) 2-piece valves
4) rotten transmission band linings
5) water jacket full of rust scale
6) radiator blocked by rust scale and mineral deposits
7) original babbit thrust bearings in rear axle.