Expert: jack bahm - 4/3/2010

Question
Hello Jack,
I inherited a model A which ran fine a couple of years ago and has been in storage since.  I replaced the battery, both battery cables, %26 ammeter.  Starter turns over the engine fine. With the key off, I have over 6 volts at the starter (and opposite the start fuse), both terminal box nuts, and both coil terminals.  The points look burned and the gas smells "old".  My next step is to replace the points and set the timing.  Do I need to pull the distributor to replace the condenser?  
Okat to just drain the gas from the gas bowl?
THanks in advance for your help,
Ed

Answer
First, get a copy of Les Andrews book, the Model A mechanics handbook.  We all have it and it is a great book.
Drain the gas from the bowl, assuming it has been many yrs since running.  If just a yr, leave the gas in there.
With the key off, you should have 6 volts at both coil terminals.  With the key on and the points closed, you should have 6 v only on one side.  If you have that, : key on, spark up, gas on, neutral, pull the chock all the way out and hold it there for 2 seconds while you push on the starter switch.  It should start.
If the points are burned or very old, replace them.  The condenser is probably ok.  You can change it without pulling the dist.
Set the points to 0.017in. and retime the engine.  I assume you know how to do that.  If not, the book will tell you how.  
Good luck and get that baby going.
jack