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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1930 model a compression

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Expert: - 4/26/2010


Question
hello jack     i have a 1930 model a and the cylinder compression measures very close to 50 lbs on all four cylinders while cranking it cold. i dont know if i am looking at a rebuild or can i expect to drive it a 4 0r 5 thousand miles.   thank you

Answer
That's good compression.  Don't get hung up on 60psi.  It will go a long way at 50psi.
Now get out and drive that little car.  If it is making noises, then that is something else.  I have been using that Rotella oil and my engines like it.  Costs a little more but it seems to fit the A engine.  
Good luck and get back to me if you need anything else.
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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