I´m trying to get my model a running. Just got it and it´s my first "drivable" fourbanger powered model a. Distributor and carburator are original type. I can see that it gets spark and fuel, but I´m not confident that the timing is right. I would also need exploded view of the distributor to see what is a adjustment on the side of the distributor. Could not find a free one with Google.
search "banger" on here- we have a ton of information in the monthly banger meets. but always be sure to try the search option on here first- there is a ton of info already here and us banger guys have answered the common questions time and time again on our thread.
No, it´s not running, but it looks like it should. Just got it home and have first difficulties with it. Thanks Keith, found some more info. I wonder what is part no. 12135 in exploded view. Sorry being lazy on the banger-search here. I´ll do it when I have more spare time.
Look at MAFCA, they have some info. Also check out Secrets of Speed and FAST(Ford A Speed and Technology) if you plan any modifications. I've been driving a 30 pickup as my daily driver for several years and having a ball.
Complete how-to on timing: http://www.abarnyard.com/workshop/timing.htm Also, Get a repro owner's manual...shows this plus explains the manual adjustment wile driving. You get to be both the centrifugal and vacuum advance yourself!
Thank you all for help. Spark timing was just ok, but I´ve must have been mistaken of the spark because there was no spark. Electricity needs some work. There was bad electricity engineering after turning the car to 12v, but i have wiring map allready in my hand.
Stock Model A wiring is odd there...ignition switch interrupts primary wire from coil to points rather than feed wire to coil, and if it has the original armored cable that is designed to ground the points as an anti-theft measure when switch is off... so figure out whether it is wired that way or modern style from the 12 volt work.
Ok, I got it working and it runs really nice. Some contacts were bad(armored cable and ignition parts) and ignition switch was busted. I already broke my starter by accidently kicking the starting button while the engine was running but I fixed it yesterday. Thanks for the help hambers!