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Classic/Antique Car Repair/Fordel Model A cut-out switch

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Expert: - 11/2/2009


Question
On my '30 Tudor,the cut-out switch has gotten stuck four times. I remove the cap and see that the points are stuck together each time. I have separated them and adjusted them each time. Is there any way to repair it, or time for a new one?

Answer
Just get a new one, but I suggest that you change over to a 6 volt alternator.  We all run alternators and life is much simpler that way.  They are about $125 now,(used to cost only $80, but for some reason, they went up).  If you have friends with A's, they probably have an old cutout that they should give you, assuming they are running an alternator.  We all keep our generators, with the cutout, but we don't use them.  The alternator has a built in cutout.  Electronic, so it can't stick.  
jack

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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jack bahm

Expertise

Only repair type questions on the 1928-1931 Ford Model A.

Experience

Owned one when I was 15 yrs old, and now have owned 5. Still own and play with 2 of them.

Organizations
Oakleaf region of MARC. Model A Restorers Club. I have put several Model A videos on the Oakleaf site that may be of help. Things like how to start the A, how to Time it, how to troubleshoot it.. Go to oakleafregion.org and you will find them. jack

Publications
"More than you need to know about cars." Just a small book for Car Nuts. Blurb.com "Model A Ford Tips and Hints" Blurb.com 2010 Many Model A movies that can be found on youtube.com/jackbahm

Education/Credentials
BSME LSU, 1958, Masters of automotive engineering from the Chrysler Institute of engineering, 1960, MBA Mich State, 1976. Worked as an engineer at Chrysler from 1958 to the end of 1991.

Awards and Honors
Two patents while working in auto industry.

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