Timing/Spark control arm
 

The timing/spark control arm on my friend's 30 Model Fordor is different than what I've seen on other A's. There are no "notches" to adjust the spark, and it doesn't seem to stay at full advance. It will drift up to about half way up while driving. I push it back down and a few minutes later it is back up from where i put it.

Someone said it maybe a replacement...thoughts??

Re: Timing/Spark control arm
 

The notches have most likely worn off...................
Paul in CT

Re: Timing/Spark control arm
 

If notches have worn off a temp fix is to glue a piece of emery paper to provide resistance on the level.

Re: Timing/Spark control arm
 

On my two "29" A's, the spark lever notch arms seem to be different. One is much longer than the other. Is this the difference between a 28/29 and a 30/31? I think maybe my 29 std coupe may have a 30/31 steering column in it. It also has a two tooth gear column. It was rebuilt from parts so the column could by a later one than a 29. Anyone have any ideas on this?

Re: Timing/Spark control arm
 

Yup worn off. You can file in the notches and file the lever to get it to work again.

Re: Timing/Spark control arm
 

Keep in mind that you can pull that rod up toward you to make room for whatever you do. It’s spring loaded at the bottom and will come up a bit.

Re: Timing/Spark control arm
 

Timely question, ETA. I've contacted numerous vendors (some of the A ones) including metal stamping companies, etc. The A vendors indicated not enough demand to warrant the tooling costs for an add-on quadrant serrated plate, etc. and others' prices can be prohibitive for small runs. There are some repro's for Model T's which don't fit the A.
A metal finger nail emory board can be modified and glued to the worn area but isn't as effective as the cut grooves. Also, hope your friend drives the car with the advance set for driving conditions. Many threads about the lever set at approx. 9:00 or so down for higher speeds and also depending on the type of head.

Re: Timing/Spark control arm
 

Using the extra gap that JacksonIII mentions, I screwed in grooved bronze quadrants hand filed from scrap. The screws would be better if brass but stainless was all I could find on the day. It clicks nicely but more, finer grooves would look better.
SAJ in NZ