Carl Schattilly, Engine Head Grinder/PorterAre my exhaust valves at risk since I can not get leaded gasoline any more?
How do I protect my exhaust valves without leaded gasoline?
DearISVP,
I have a model A Ford and the starter switch shorted out. Do I need to remove the starter? I ask that because I think I have a bolt that is stuck and it won't come out. Mike Slosberg, Sioux City, IA, August 2, 1998
Dear Mike,
Yes, you should remove the starter and rebuild it. If the switch went bad there might be others problems developing. The bolt that does not want to come out. If it's the one behind the starter near the engine, you need to use an extension with a socket so you can get your socket wrench handle past the end of the starter . A box wrench will hit the engine or starter and will feel like it won't move. The socket and extension will solve that problem.
Good Luck, Walter R Haessner, Technical Editor, AACC
Dear ISVP,
Picking up a 1950 Packard 327 straight 8 and driving from Ohio to Iowa. What do I run for gasoline..... unlead premium or regular unleaded, or do I have to add additive??? I asssume Eathonal based gas is a no no... Thanks
Dave Krieg May 11, 1998
Dear Dave,
Use a premium fuel, the highest octane number you can find, 93, or higher
Yes use a fuel additive for valve protection, not an octane enhancer, most octane enhancers have alcohol in them.
Keep the weight in the car as low as possible. Take no riders if you can get away with out them. Keep the speed down also. The faster you go the hotter the engine will get. You are using a high octane to keep the engine cool. Drive in the early morning and early evening when it is cool and the air has more moisture in it.
Yes, stay away from the ethanol fuels, they will stir up and loosen the dirt in the fuel tank. Because in some places you might get fuel with some type of alcohol in it, take extra fuel filters with you. Be sure to take a small tool kit as well.
Check the air pressure in all the tires before you start and again after 50 miles on the highway.
Check the oil and oil filter. The oil you add or change should be the same type as is in the car now.
If the car has been in storage and you don't know what type of oil is in it, i.e. 10/30 or just plain 30 weight go for a non-detergent oil. The new oil with detergents in them will clean out your engine too fast on a trip like this. Also check out your water, and brake fluids as well.
And make sure your spare tire is in good shape. That you also have the correct jack and lug wrench.
If I think of any thing else, I'll let you know.
These are some suggestion, not a cure-all. You need to really check the car out very detailed before you take it on the road for that distance.
Ask the owner as much about the car as possible. When was the last time it was driven for a long distance, how many times, how often, when were the oil, water, gas, and brake fluid last changed. How old is the gas in the tank, etc.
Let us know how you make out.
Walter R Haessner, ISVP, Ex. Dir., May 11, 1998
Carl Schattilly, Engine Head Grinder/Porter
Denny Wyckoff, Engine Rebuilder