How to start a Ford Model A

How to start a Ford Model A. Although covered in other videos, the starting procedure deserved its very own video. Paul Shinn's KZbin channel- www.youtube.com...
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"I AM the Warranty"
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[@ElliottAlvis]

Paul, I loved this video. This answers questions so many people have about how to even start these cars! I have a feeling this is going to be the staple video for anyone in the future who is new to Model A’s.

[@ModelA]

Thank you, Elliott! How is tour weather over there in Wichita now? We were praying for you guys.

[@Sprice4984]

I’ve probably never commented on a KZbin video before. I just got my late father’s Model A. This and all your videos have been so helpful. Thank you!

[@ModelA]

It's an honor that your first KZbin comments was here. Thank you! Glad you like them!

[@r.lpederson1447]

Paul, Thank You for your video's! I just inherited my father's 1930 Model A. I knew Nothing...including how to start. This video has helped me immensely. I got her started right away after sitting for about 6 months. I watched several of your video's and I have learned so much. The car has been fully restored before I took possession. But I felt I needed to learn more before I tried to drive her. After watching your videos, I have gone through all the maintenace tips. I now have taken the car on several short trips, and I absolutely love driving this vehicle. Thank You for all your help.

[@ModelA]

That is awesome! That's what this is all about. I'm sorry your dad isn't sitting next to you now, but you can carry his memories with you whenever you drive that Model A.

[@debluetailfly]

I saw a repair job of a rumble seat by a restorer on Hwy 7 south of Jasper, AR. The car had been used as a pickup and the rumble seat was all bent up and abused. He had to cut part of the old metal away and weld in a patch. I would have never known if he hadn't shown me the repair. I love good work like that.

[@MrBrendog67rat]

I did a bunch of work to my Roadster, new head gasket, had the head milled, new studs,1 new valve, all new valve guides and springs and a valve lap. put it all back together and tried to start it up, and it would not start. I looked at everything and I saw I forgot to turn on the gas, 20 min later it started up and ran great!

[@ModelA]

We''ve ALL done that! Ha ha! Any Model A owner who hasn't doesn't drive their car.

[@melj03447]

Paul, Thank you for this video. I needed a refresher, and I'm not sure I ever really learned how to run the multi function choke/gas but somehow I used to manage it through some trial and error. Hadn't started in 2 years, and she started right up. 😊

[@ModelA]

Excellent!

[@Rottingboards]

Nice video Paul. You make winter lockdown a little easier. Thanks for your time.

[@richlorimer518]

Hi Paul, I have admired Model A's from afar and wanted one for over 3 decades. My wife of over 3 decades fails to see the point! I'm still working on her and am finding your videos inspirational. It might finally be time to take that plunge. I think it would be a lot of fun to tinker with in my upcoming retirement. Thank you for putting all of this content out! BTW, if I'd have been following you back when you were selling the hooptie, I would have loved to gotten that one from you!

[@ModelA]

I hope it works out for you, Rich!

[@jessicabonner6395]

Thank you for this! Bought a ‘30 coupe in the fall, put less than 100km on it, and then parked it for the winter. I’m trying to refresh myself so I can get it ready for the summer and this helped a lot

[@Tuckenstein]

I very recently inherited my A, and all of your videos on it are so informative. I am extremely appreciative I found you.

[@ModelA]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@georgeloyie7456]

What a lovely old girl... I grew up with many Model A cars that my dad collected. I miss him and I miss them and would love to have one as a daily driver.

[@ModelA]

Sorry about your dad. Why not get a Model A and enjoy it in your dad's honor?

[@discerningmind]

Nice job Paul. A week or two back I found a Model A manual on-line from the Ford Restorers Club. Just yesterday I read the Ford new car instructions for starting the engine. It was fun watching this only a day later as you brought those instructions to real life. I'd enjoy a video on why the Model A has such a unique sound.

[@ModelA]

Thanks! The unique sound? I don't know. It just does.

[@SuperDrleo]

Another great video Paul! I've owned Model A Fords since 1971, and 'yes' they each seem to have their own sweet spot when it comes to starting them! Doesn't take long to figure it out! Thanks again love the videos you make!

[@do8646]

I just found your videos the other day and I have to say thank you for sharing them. For a year or so now I have been considering trying to purchase a Model A because I like old Ford 4 cylinders (I have a fondness for N series tractors) and I love the lines of the Model A. Thanks for showing how fun they are, and your manner of talking about them is very enjoyable.

[@ModelA]

You are very kind. Thank you! I hope you do end up with a Model A soon

[@nelsonchegezy3332]

Suggestion, you may want to consider joining a local Chapter/Region of the Model A Ford Club of America (MAFCA) and/or the Model A Restorer's Club (MARC). They're both great clubs and there will be lots of support such as helping you inspect a potential Model A purchase as well as helping you once you have it home. There are also Paul's great videos to help.

[@do8646]

@@nelsonchegezy3332 Thanks, I have already looked up the web site of the local chapter and am considering doing just that.

[@josephhoener5764]

I enjoyed seeing the S-38s and other tube gear peeping through the tudor's window!

[@wadedog4280]

Good idea to have a dedicated video on things like this. Like you said some things get lost in the shuffle in videos and I know personally I want to go back and find info and I can't remember what video it was in. Your videos never disappoint me. Thanks.

[@jessparker9442]

Paul , I recently joined a model a here in Texas. In the first week I had two names of older members who wanted to sell their model a’s. Excited about being an owner and looking forward to seeing your videos. Jess Parker

[@ModelA]

That is awesome, Jess! You are about to be the warranty!

[@Michael_Scott_Howard]

You videon is 100% correct and your car's engine clearly is rebuilt top notch. I put in my clutch as well... only and given my last 31' gas as you know a tad different. great video as always.

[@davewilson5997]

Owning a "near stock" model A is on my bucket list...Your videos are the prefect inspiration to make it happen....Many Thanks

[@ModelA]

You can do it. Thank you!

[@vincentaurelius2390]

Wow, two gems. The interiors are just as beautiful as the exteriors.

[@erroldawdy3637]

PAUL, Thank you SO much for these relaxed, friendly and helpful videos. I remember watching a video a couple of years ago, ( when I was a rookie to Model As…even at age 85) to where a supposed expert stated that I should NOT expect a Model A to start after sitting for a even short while 🥴??? Needless to say I wasn’t really optimistic about my recent purchase of a ‘30 Roadster. ‘Pity…. I guess he hadn’t seen your video. Keep havin’ fun, and encouraging others to as well. Errol, Northern Ontario 👍🏻

[@ModelA]

Thank you I have found a lot of "experts" who are gatekeepers. They hate all the new people getting into Model As now, and they especially hate ME for making it happen. You are in good company, my friend.

[@erroldawdy3637]

@@ModelAThanks Paul. After years of owning, (and regretting selling) many Model T’s, I’m looking forward to driving the Model A a little more than just around town. Errol, Sudbury Ontario You must be really busy answering many emails. 👏

[@ModelA]

Average about 100 emails every day. And still work 60+ hours per week and volunteer for the county. Yes, busy.

[@elljon1]

Great video!...To keep the stock gas valve handle position from getting confused I nod my head up and down for "Yes it's on" and left and right back and forth for "No it's off" On the spark rod handle I think of the phrase "Start'er Up" to remind me of the spark setting.

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

GREAT IDEA! My 1931 De Luxe Tudor has the shutoff under the hood, and every time I go into an earlier Model A, I have to really think which way is OFF and which way is ON>

[@modeladenny1218]

I watch a lot of Model A videos on my big smart TV. I've noticed that on some cars the ON is turned sideways! If I had the valve on the firewall I'd never remember to shut it off.

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

@@modeladenny1218 When the gas shutoff is under the hood (like late 1931 Model A's) you don't need to turn it off unless you have a stuck float in the carburetor. I leave mine on all the time.

[@modeladenny1218]

@@mafcawebmaster4237 Way back when I drove Model A's I don't remember every turning off the gas valve. I even drove them in heavy traffic to work some 15 miles each way.

[@ModelA]

@@mafcawebmaster4237 I only turn mine off when parking the car at the end of a weekend when it won't be driven for at least another week. Otherwise, it stays on. Like you say, unless your carb leaks, no need to keep messing with it.

[@Okie-Tom]

Very good video Paul! Love your videos! Tom

[@vayabroder729]

Great video! Henry Ford is looking down and smiling...😉

[@billebobb]

After working on the “internals” of my Model A, I “think” you might mean “UP!” 😂

[@eugenelevin8314]

Love the video Question: After the cold start with the GAV open a bit The secret handshake is over ...... As she warms up don’t you want to lean her back and twist her knob ....uh I mean don’t you want to readjust the GAV again? Is there a Science to adjusting the fuel mixture? Is it something you don’t touch too much or do you adjust it as you drive sometimes?? Is there a way to know your at the sweet spot where it’s not too rich or too lean? Also my dad taught me that the starter pedal is positioned so you can depress the brake pedal with back part of your foot while using the front part of your foot 🦶 to press the starter pedal 💡...some old timer automotive knowledge . Keep em coming Paul Your videos are greAAAAAAAAt

[@ModelA]

I showed exactly how to adjust the GAV. Please watch again. Your dad was right!

[@eugenelevin8314]

@@ModelA ....I think I was too busy writing my comment Haha

[@ModelA]

@@eugenelevin8314 Hahahaa!! You're a good friend of the channel, so you get a pass!

[@davidpruyne7340]

Brief and to the point ,,,, good video,,,, just got me a model A ,,,, an a old doodle bug for parts or maybe to run around some , grew up on a farm here in northeast PA,,, am a retired diesel mechanic ,,, love the videos on the As

[@ModelA]

Glad it helped

[@ShouldersMoondog549]

Well, you just answered a couple of questions I had about some of the controls in the Model A. I had figured that the one knob on the passenger side was the choke, but didn't know about it also being the gas control too. the only one question left is the lever around the horn button. Thanks again for doing these video's!!

[@ModelA]

Headlight switch!

[@ShouldersMoondog549]

@@ModelA Thanks!! never gave that a thought!!

[@gee4zfpv]

What a great video and a great channel! This is invaluable for me as I've been tasked with selling a friend's collection which has Model AA's Model T's and TT's and V8's among others!! They have all been sitting for 6 years so it's been quite a process to be waking everyone up! Thanks for posting these excellent videos!

[@Dewittburton]

Paul - For the last 60 years, I've driven (and sometimes owned) Ford Model A's. ..and Franklins. And, in addition to all you do to start your Model A's, I always depress the clutch. Is this unnecessary? I'm getting a little old to learn new tricks! Don't even know why I do it except that's that my uncle taught me when I learned to drive...all cars. Great site!

[@ModelA]

A little extra step for big safety.

[@jeffboyles3611]

Another great video Paul. Thanks, and looking forward to that comprehensive brake seminar.

[@Sedan57Chevy]

The Model A- complicated at first glance, but really rather common sense once you understand how everything works. Much better than the crazy contraption that came before, that Model T...how Henry Ford ever even got around to the Model A I'll never know! All joking aside, the Model A really does have a cool startup procedure. It's awesome just how 'in control' you are of your vehicle- no computers here, just the vehicle operator at the wheel!

[@ModelA]

We have Clara and Edsel Ford to thank for the Model A.

[@Sedan57Chevy]

@@ModelA Very true! Although it does make me wonder...what would've happened if they hadn't convinced old henry to build the Model A. How long would the T have stuck around before sales dried up? Would the car have continued down the evolutionary styling line started by the '26-'27 T's? It's an interesting thought experiment of alternate history: how long could the Model T have remained relevant? Also makes me wonder, as far as the real world, how long Model T's stuck around as every-day normal used cars before being replaced by something more conventional...I might have to go do some photographic research!!

[@Dan-qy1rg]

Hello Paul, awesome video! Thanks for showing me the secret hand shake for the Model A. I wasn't aware of the importance of each step and how they all help the car start. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge, take care and have a great week!!!

[@ModelA]

My pleasure!

[@scotty2307]

Hello Paul. in the late 90s, early 2000s, I worked for a boat dealership in Rancho Cordova, CA. We had a Ford 9n tractor that we used for moving the boats around the yard, and in and out of the buildings. The only unreliable thing about it was the starter. Someone had put a 12v battery in and had not had the starter re would for 12 volts. It would periodically break the bendix gear. Other than that, all it needed was the merest bump, and off it would go. It didn't matter what the temperature, or how long it had been since last started, say after the winter holidays. A couple of compression strokes was all it ever needed.

[@ModelA]

Very similar motor to a Model A

[@craigpennington1251]

I really like that sedan. Super nice. Great video. Almost like starting a WW II fighter in the procedures.

[@bryanswenson1452]

I caught the Model A virus from you Paul and just purchased a fordor on Ebay last night. I'm feeling a bit better this morning. If you look on completed listings you will see a black fordor. Pretty good shape. It's all a bit of a gamble till I hear it run. Such is life.

[@ModelA]

Excellent!! I hope it brings you much happiness.

[@bryanswenson1452]

@@ModelA thanks paul It looks like a great deal

[@robdoe2420]

Another good one, Mr. Shinn.

[@adamrasmussen1839]

Incredible! Would love to own one someday! Thanks for sharing this

[@ModelA]

Good luck Adam!

[@hootch3133]

Hey Paul see a grill guard on your garage shelf, I have one but never got the clip set for it yet. Any chance you can show us how to put one on?

[@ModelA]

Those ruin grill shells. I have two cracked shells to show for it. In nearly 60K miles of driving Model A's without radiator guards installed, I have never, ever had a rock damage a radiator. The only reason it is up there is because nobody will come take it.

[@reneehohensheldt3126]

I was also wondering if you have ahhh video's om driving up hills and down shifting for proper handling?

[@dividedregions7351]

Awesome video! Just got my stock 2 door model a today!

[@ModelA]

Nice!!

[@OCG306]

idk how anyone could dislike any of these videos

[@ModelA]

My friends say it must be vintage Chevrolet owners. Ha ha!

[@brianlindenlaub1511]

Thanks Paul, another great video.

[@gregmcqueary3449]

Great info for a newer Model A'er!

[@ModelA]

Thanks Greg! That's my goal.

[@toddathey1235]

Thanks Paul. Great video.

[@marilynmoore6752]

Great video these cars sound so good, my father in law said these cars cluck like a chicken when spark is set right

[@armandfontaine4508]

Hi! Love your videos. They are very informative. Have you made a video about installing an electric wiper motor on a 29 Roadster?

[@ModelA]

Not yet. Someday!

[@rupe53]

Got a 28 GMC and the starting is about the same, although no enrichment control. It will start on the second try after sitting in storage all winter.

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

Wish you'd mentioned that in late 1931 cars, the gas shutoff is under the hood. Not quite so convenient to turn on/off, but a lot safer in case the valve leaks!

[@modeladenny1218]

I've only had the early 1931 Model A's. Sadly this one has a later V-8 and electric fuel pump. The inside valve can remain on when driven regularly. Don't even need a secret handshake. Ask Paul why the shut off was moved to the engine side and why cowl lites were added. I'm not a good teacher.

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

@@modeladenny1218 Ford moved the fuel shut off under the hood in April/May 1931 for safety reasons (if it's gonna leak, let it leak outside the passenger compartment!) As for cowl lights, they were introduced in 1929 on De Luxe cars. They were offered by dealers as options for standard cars.

[@modeladenny1218]

@@mafcawebmaster4237 I read that a northeastern state forced Ford to relocate the gas shut off. The same state outlawed headlights in the city limits so Ford added cowl lites to let people know a Ford was near. I forgot everything I ever knew about Model A's so I'm relearning.

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

@@modeladenny1218 Could be possible. I have heard that one of the NE states (Penna?) wouldn't register the early 1928 cars with left-hand brake because the emergency brake and service brakes were combined. Ford fixed that by June 1928. Haven't seen either of these documented anywhere.

[@modeladenny1218]

@@mafcawebmaster4237 As we know, Henry Ford wouldn't change anything unless forced!

[@kenrhoda2573]

I enjoy your video’s as I’m a relatively new Model A enthusiast. I’m currently doing a full restoration on my 1931 Deluxe Model A 5 window Coupe w/rumble seat and considering installing a roll down rear window. Any advice on whether or not if you would recommend I attempt to tackle this endeavor and if so, do you have a video on how to install this? Any advice will be much appreciated!! Thanks

[@dougarchibald3439]

Love it .You are the most information professional and positive personality on you tube thank you .I never miss your production , and I thank you,Old guy excellent

[@ModelA]

Good for you! I do not have any advice for installing that window. Sorry. I have only worked on coupes with the fixed rear window.

[@michaelcschmitt]

Love these videos.

[@ModelA]

Glad you like them!

[@nickolson1491]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge of these wonderful cars. How do I contribute to support your channel?

[@ModelA]

Thank you!! www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_donations&business=DNEA3GWXRXSAC&currency_code=USD&source=url

[@Bob-qf4qo]

Impressive floor no drips :) ! Just kidding the video was a good instructive piece👍👍

[@ModelA]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@nicklewis7291]

If you get an opportunity, a video on the differences and similarities of the predecessor and the successor of the model A would be really cool.

[@ModelA]

I did compare the Model A to the Model T already. Am planning to compare to the flathead V8 at some point. Thanks!

[@nicklewis7291]

@@ModelA Awesome. I'll have to check out that video.

[@ModelA]

Here's a shortcut- kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIqVnp2In6qLaa8

[@nicklewis7291]

@@ModelA Thanks

[@janetcrosby9274]

Paul Love your videos and being new to the A world, they are invaluable. How well do the Model A”s handle high altitude?? Being pilots we deal with high density altitude all the time. Would you use the choke / gas control knob to lean the mixture?

[@ModelA]

Yea, you just lean the mixture. Most properly jetted Model A Zenith carburetors run best with the GAV about 1/4 turn open (richer). When passing over the sierras, I just close the GAV down and she runs fine.

[@MartinMoser-oz7kl]

Hi Paul, I really enjoy all of your videos. I need help on something. Can I wire a 12-volt siren into my 31 Ford 6-volt system and how? Thank you

[@ModelA]

I suppose so. It will just not wind up very high

[@MartinMoser-oz7kl]

@@ModelA I have seen "step-up" transformers on-line and 6-volt to 12-volt converters. Do you think they would work. I am trying to replicate an old police car. Thank you for your help

[@michaelwelch557]

Thanks for this video....Your wife is very smart.

[@ModelA]

That what she said

[@patxile.361]

thank you for explication

[@kennethswain6313]

What was the purpose of the pop out ignition switch? Although I’ve had 2 “A”‘s the explanations you give give both clarity and detail that is greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!

[@nelsonchegezy3332]

Per "The Ford Service Bulletins", the "pop out" ignition switch, actually called the Ford Type Electrolock, is a combination switch and theft proof lock. It was highly approved by the Underwriter's Labs. When the lock cylinder is pushed in, the ignition circuit is broken and "the car locked." To unlock the switch, turn the key one-fourth turn to right at which time the lock cylinder springs out (pops out) and closes the ignition circuit so you can start the engine.

[@ModelA]

What Nelson said!

[@theguythatcouldfly]

Thanks for the video! Do you ever get soot in your exhaust that blows out when you first start up the car?

[@ModelA]

Rarely. I don't run them that rich.

[@DumbBunny5328]

The model a delivery van is my dream car

[@torchris1]

Very cool! You say they can sit for months, but is there a recommendation for how often to run them up and how long to run them? Every month or so and then drive it around the block to fully warm it up, for instance?

[@ModelA]

I am not going to state in days/hours how long is too long to leave your Model A lifeless. If you have to ask, you aren't driving it enough.

[@jonflores915]

Great video Paul. Any suggestions on swapping to juice brakes or keeping mechanical brakes?? Any upcoming videos on upgrading to juice brakes?

[@ModelA]

I will never, ever produce a video on how to convert to "juice brakes". Properly done stock brakes are way better.

[@nelsonchegezy3332]

Properly done stock mechanical brakes will lock up and stop the wheels from turning. A braking system can't do more than stop the wheels from going around. Then, the car will skid. Since the brake shoe surface area, wheel drums, and tire surface area touching the ground is not changed, I don't think that hydraulic brakes are really an upgrade. Also. hydraulic or juice brakes can leak at some point especially if the vehicle isn't used routinely. The Model A braking system was engineered to match the engine's power, steering, and suspension.

[@adventureguy4119]

I like cars, and my taste is basic utilitarian cars. I don't get into the fancy things, i appreciate mechanical things that just work.

[@ModelA]

Then you will love Model As

[@josephhagins4631]

Another great video!

[@timothymcmullen5002]

I just got my first Model A and I have watched this video probably 10 times and still again to day to learn how to start. Unfortunately I am watching today because mine won't start, wont even turn over, wont even acknowledge my existence in the seat, NO JOY! Am I doing something wrong? Back to video and watch and learn

[@ModelA]

Dead battery perhaps?

[@Banjomanofcripplecreek]

Have this playing in the background while I fix my model A Tudor sedan

[@interstate80.]

I want to get one of these, but not a nice one. I want to get a beat up one that doesn’t run for really cheap and then rebuild the engine and transmission and fix it up. Eventually when I’m older, it could be a nice car by then

[@manuelstarr3602]

You could just about give a tune-up as you're driving.. as well as early cruise control Tkcr cheers 🥂

[@cristy1735]

Hi Paul. Quick question. My brother has a 1931 Model A that he just got out of the shop. My question is it recently started not moving in first gear unless the clutch is very slightly depressed while I accelerate. If I completely release the clutch, it instantly dies. Any ideas? I really enjoy your channel and my brother loved the "I am the warranty" t-shirt I got him.

[@AndrewHoukamau]

"BOOMER BOX" lol

[@markreynolds1663]

Hi Paul, I hope you see and answer my question. I am in the middle of buying my 31 Model A truck. The gas shut off valve is in the engine bay on the firewall. Is that the factory spot? Also, the previous owner stated the back of the front bumper is NOT chrome and a just painted chrome. Is it true that is how they did it from the factory? Thank you so much and thank you for all the awesome videos!!!!

[@ModelA]

In the late 1931 Model A's, the fuel shutoff is indeed under the hood. The bumpers are chrome on all sides, but only polished on the front. Thank you!

[@kretonslovechild7999]

Interesting! I didn't realize these guys had a gas pedal as well as the throttle lever, and when watching other vids of them being driven, I couldn't figure out how they accelerated without moving the throttle lever. So the lever is pretty much just for starting? Also, what's the thumb lever at the center of the steering wheel for?

[@ModelA]

Yep. Or a simple cruise control. Center switch is for lights

[@kretonslovechild7999]

@@ModelA Ah - thanks for the info!

[@ap5088]

What is the reason for having both the throttle on the column and the accelerator pedal on the floor? Is the lever on the column just for starting?

[@ModelA]

It's useful for starting, cruise control, starting out on an uphill without rolling backwards, all sorts of things.

[@ap5088]

@@ModelA Thanks for the info!

[@johnraskob1996]

Paul, great video as always! 2 questions I can't find the answer to; #1 - I have a 29 Roadster that used to overheat, runs fine now after a good flushing and cleaning, will a "bolt on" higher compression head cause it to run hotter? #2 - If you had the choice between the syncro gearbox with the higher ratio gears or the overdrive which would you choose? Thanks again!

[@ModelA]

#1- No. #2- Only one, bot both, right? I'd go for the overdrive.

[@johnraskob1996]

@@ModelA Thanks! Have heard you say people "donate" for the youtube channel, what's the best way to do that?

[@Library_of_Lunacy]

Loved the video!

[@ModelA]

Thank you!!

[@camino6431]

Hey Paul, Do you have a video of how to replace the wiring, all of it, on a Model a Tudor? I have a 29 Tudor that I don't trust the wiring in. Turn signals? Thanks, Marty

[@Rob-hw5wr]

do you have a video on what to look for before buying a model A?

[@ModelA]

Not yet, but soon.

[@alex-vc8lq]

these old fords us just beatifull cars. i have always love them and others cars from same era , maybe because they are so called firrst "real" cars even model T is more wagon without horses and what i mean is they look more old horse cats than car bit model a looks a car and they just build them so well and a i can't explain why i think theya re just beatifulll cars but it just make you happy to watch them.🚙🚕🚗😀

[@ModelA]

So glad this made you happy! Thanks!

[@lestatangel]

I absolutely must have one of these. Not yours of course, lol, but I need to acquire one.

[@ModelA]

Do it! You won't be sorry

[@richsherman8706]

Any tips on starting in cold weather, maybe 4 degrees?

[@ModelA]

Hold the choke out a little longer, and open the GAV another 1/2 turn or so. She'll go!

[@mriojas78]

Great video as always. My 28 Model A just arrived at my house today. I bought it off classic car site. I have question about shifting. Just sitting there running and trying to shift to reverse and first the gears grind. Is that a clutch issue or transmission?

[@ModelA]

You need to slow down. See my video about "How to shift a Model A" for details. Also, your idle speed needs to be low and clutch adjusted properly. Idle speed should be well below 400 RPMs.

[@nelsonchegezy3332]

I was not able to shift easily when the engine's idle speed was set too fast. How's your engine's idle speed? If the engine is sorted properly, it's amazing how slow they can idle. You almost think that the engine will stop. Paul's videos are the greatest! For clutch pedal adjustments, do you have a copy of Les Andrews's "Model A Ford Mechanics Handbook Vol. I"? It can be quite helpful as a supplement to these videos.

[@mriojas78]

@@ModelA after starting I bring spark advance down a bit like in video and throttle lever couple clicks down. I let it warm up and then try to shift into reverse and grinds. I adjusted clutch and made it grind less but it’s still doing it. When driving sometimes it does less but still more times than not. I have watched your videos several times

[@nelsonchegezy3332]

In addition to Paul's great videos, I've found Les Andrews "Model A Ford Mechanics Handbook" and "Troubleshooting & Diagnostics" volumes to be very helpful. As one possibility, Les Andrews mentions that the throwout bearing slider sleeve could be gummed up from old grease and need cleaning. I found it very helpful to join the local Chapter/Region of the Model A Ford Club of America (MAFCA) and/or the Model A Restorer's Club (MARC). There will be local Club members who usually are anxious to help a fellow Model A enthusiast.

[@chrismazda1531]

Hi, do you have any recommendations on a heater for the Model A, Driving one in the winter in Nova Scotia Canada can be rather interesting.

[@ModelA]

Hi Chris. Tina and I use blankets in the winter and a rag for defogging the windows. No heaters in our cars, and almost no experience with them. Maybe someone reading this here can help?

[@shangsoun1345]

Hi Paul, have you ever come across a model A with no numbers on the engine? And is that a red flag for a no sale? Thank Ian

[@ModelA]

See it all the time. Nope. No big deal.

[@shangsoun1345]

Great thanks Really wish you lived in PA So I can send the car over to you for inspection and so forth lol Keep the great videos coming.

[@ModelA]

I can't take PA winters!

[@markicrosby]

Any ideas?? I have a 1930 Model A coupe that my dad drove in college. Trying to restore it. I had a professional rebuild the engine, it has a new carburetor, new distribution, basically new everything. I have followed Paul’s video on setting the timing. I cannot get it to start. It cranks and occasionally I’ll hear a pop, but nothing else. I follow everything in this video to a T. I have a clear distributor cap. I can see the distributor rotate when trying to start but there are no sparks seen. I assume I have to see sparks for it to start. Any ideas why I can’t get it to start? Thanks!

[@ModelA]

I'm going to guess worn distributor, dirty points, or bad coil. Need to be hands on to know for sure.

[@richardcvlr5]

I don't understand why someone gave this video a thumbs down?

[@ModelA]

There are a few guys on the forums who hate my guts and give all my videos a thumbs down. I'm kinda flattered. Either way, they click on my videos, so it's a win!

[@williamforbes5826]

I know this is a late post... Similar to what we learned about starting motorcycles. FINE-C. Fuel Ignition Neutral Engine ( cut off switch ) Clutch. Once you have truly learned, it becomes habit. Hasta la pasta

[@ModelA]

You're right

[@DavidWilson-sm2ym]

Paul, ever considered getting a Model T? I don't have either, hence my clueless curiosity. Aren't Model T's more difficult to start and to drive? It'd be more material for videos. *I know there are others who cover Model T videos, but none of them are as good or thorough as your videos.

[@ModelA]

Thanks David! I have driven Model Ts around. Not necessarily difficult, just different. In some ways easier than a Model A. If I lived in town and could get around at 25-35 MPH everywhere, I would consider a Model T. But I live in a rural area with a lot of 45 to 50 MPH roads, so it would not be very useful.

[@jamestillman5511]

My dream car ❤❤😍😍

[@therabbitswhisper]

Drooling, I'd kill for one and you have two. More beautiful then a woman. :)

[@hermanjones4124]

Hello Mr. Paul I have a 1929 model A that im having problem with it cranking sometime, i have replaced the starter thus far. When i go to crank it just nothing at all horn wont blow, lights wont work i pulled and cranked it then switched it off and cranked it up again did that about 10 times 11th time nothing. what could be the problem? Thanks Herman

[@ModelA]

In my experience, bad ground connection somewhere.

[@stephenhenion8304]

What color are the wheels on your sport coupe, Exactly? It's just a beautiful blue .

[@ModelA]

Hessian Blue. Thanks!

[@rafaellebre]

Regards from Brazil!

[@ModelA]

Best regards to you in Brazil! I like visiting that country.

[@rafaellebre]

If you ever set a foot here I will pick you at the airport with a model.A! Hehe.

[@ModelA]

@@rafaellebre You are a good man!

[@markosterman419]

What is the other transmission knob … do you have an after market transmission or rear?

[@ModelA]

Overdrive

[@kerrythomas4901]

Too bad my Model A won't start like that, it has now been sitting for 3 years, and I think the car is starting to be ruined. Both front wheels have locked up and is stuck to the floor. I hand cranked the engine and is starting to feel a little stiff, so I hope it is not starting to lock up, thank you Paul for the video's.

[@nelsonchegezy3332]

Are you a member of a local Chapter/Region of the Model A Ford Club of America (MAFCA) or The Model A Restorer's Club (MARC)? There are lots of local Clubs with members who are both knowledgeable about Model A's and very willing to help fellow enthusiasts. I strongly recommend joining a local Club or Region Chapter. Just my thoughts.

[@kerrythomas4901]

@@nelsonchegezy3332 Thank You for your suggestions, I do belong to the MAFCA, but not to any other club or chapter, I will have to see if there are any clubs close to my area, Tampa. I do know that my front brakes are locked shut, they are hydraulic brakes, I will have to get the front wheels free just to roll the car. I have owned the 1929 Fordor for 5 1/2 years and drove the car about 50 miles in that time. Thank you for your help.

[@nelsonchegezy3332]

Kerry, If your Model A can be jacked off the floor a few inches, you may consider car wheel dollies which can be placed under the wheels. Then, your car can be moved about by pushing/pulling it. Just a thought.

[@brodythemovieguy]

Paul, Question on the timing....after warm up for some reason my 30 model A. doesn't like to start when the spark fully up. it needs to when its cold. but after its warm it needs to be 3/4 of the way down. is that normal?

[@ModelA]

No. Sounds like the engine might be pretty tired or the timing is off.

[@theunknown4677]

Why is there a throttle on the steering wheel and on the ground? what does each one do?

[@ModelA]

They work together. The throttle on the column can be used as a sort of cruise control.

[@xshanghu]

Great.

[@ModelA]

Thank you!

[@jmartin567]

And now you can start your car while inside the house, we have come a long way

[@Lunas2525]

You can start your car from your phone now and certain ones will drive themselves to you from the parking lot...

[@yuvegotmale]

I had a 1930 model a pick up when I was in high school in the mid 60s. On several occasions the engine started totally by surprise by simply turning on the ignition and throwing the spark advance lever up. I guess things were just right to send a spark to a cyl that had some fuel in it...has this ever happened to anyone else???

[@ModelA]

The Model T crowd calls that a "Free Start".

[@kentonjones2973]

Hello new to the modal a ..having trouble It starving for gas ..I cleaned all fuel system..all clear ..checked for vacuum leaks . .hard to start ...sometimes will not rev .just suck air ..adjust the the bowl to level. Still extremely un reliable....New carburetor?

[@ModelA]

Sure sounds like a fuel clog or a plugged gas cap vent to me. How far open in your GAV setting? Perhaps a clogged carb fuel passage?

[@kentonjones2973]

@@ModelA yes sir ! I figured it out. Somebody used the spray in fuel tank linner ...it was flaking off blocking the gas valve...I cleaned out ..runs perfect now ...good advise..I did order a carburetor..ill set it on the shelf incase I need it some day ...thank you

[@ModelA]

Great aork Kenton!!! That's what I call a win!!

[@richardt2k1]

Awesome