The Ford Barn - View Single Post - Max Speed of a Model A with 26% OD and HC Head

pbishop · 04-20-2021, 02:05 AM

All I can tell you is that I run sustained 68 mph in my Model A (per Garmin GPS readings) with a standard Model A 3-speed trans. I have 12 volt modern point system, a lightened flywheel, balanced crankshaft, and a Weber Two barrel carb with the modern intake. I also add Lucas lubricates in both the engine and in the trans. I have had enough sports cars to 'know' that it does make a difference.

I am also running 1935 wide-rims and radial tires with a piston stabilizer on the steering and 'float-a-motor' rubber engine mounts front and back – past 55+ the car handles with limited vibration and little perceivable shimmy.

I have read here and other places that I can add an additional 5+ mph if I use a cast iron header exhaust and different muffler system, but have not done that as of yet. I use a four blade fan for cooling here in Florida, but I have also read that the use of a six blade plastic fan will work better and reduce the drag on HP and speed. Another advantage to consider.

Lots of changes that can really perk up the wonderful Model A.

04-20-2021, 02:05 AM	#2
pbishop Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Wimauma, Florida Posts: 121	Re: Max Speed of a Model A with 26% OD and HC Head All I can tell you is that I run sustained 68 mph in my Model A (per Garmin GPS readings) with a standard Model A 3-speed trans. I have 12 volt modern point system, a lightened flywheel, balanced crankshaft, and a Weber Two barrel carb with the modern intake. I also add Lucas lubricates in both the engine and in the trans. I have had enough sports cars to 'know' that it does make a difference. I am also running 1935 wide-rims and radial tires with a piston stabilizer on the steering and 'float-a-motor' rubber engine mounts front and back – past 55+ the car handles with limited vibration and little perceivable shimmy. I have read here and other places that I can add an additional 5+ mph if I use a cast iron header exhaust and different muffler system, but have not done that as of yet. I use a four blade fan for cooling here in Florida, but I have also read that the use of a six blade plastic fan will work better and reduce the drag on HP and speed. Another advantage to consider. Lots of changes that can really perk up the wonderful Model A.