Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

Hi folks! Posting here for a friend. He's putzing with a 1928 Model A. His question is: "Does any water still remain in the engine when you open the drain petcock? Does it fully drain?"

I believe he's contemplating winterizing procedures. We read some various opinions about fully draining the engine vs using antifreeze.

Thanks for your help!

Re: Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

I can't tell you that not a drop of water remains, but I can tell you I have done this in Vermont for close to 25 winters and never had an issue. Antifreeze might keep you from some flash rust, but not necessary to protect from freezing.

Re: Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

When you open the petcock on a motor of unknown duration in storage and nothing comes out stick a wire up to open any bridging from rust.
The voice of experience has spoken.
Bob

Re: Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

If it's full before draining you should see 3 gallons of water drain out. I would pay attention to the possibility of the drain plugging up from rust and not draining completely.

Re: Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

I would use a antifreeze solution no matter what the weather. Engines this old
Need all the rust protection they can get. I've cleaned out 8 Model A blocks over the years and two were so thin due to rust that a pressure washer blew holes through the metal and made them useless.

Re: Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

Re: Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

Don't forget the Model A engine tilts backwards from horizontal. Therefore not all water will drain out. Each time you drain straight water that you have been using as a coolant, you are encouraging another layer of rust, impeding cooling for the next season. 50/50 mix is the best.

Re: Draining water from 1928 Model A
 

I use two Tbs of soluble oil with 3 gallons regular water for summers and change out one gallon of denatured alcohol for winter driving, which keeps my system unrusted and safe in Oregon winters. If I'm feeling nervous or a car is sitting for a while (month or more) I also add a pint of rust preventative.