The Ford Barn

Chris in CT · 05-30-2013, 08:09 AM

Hi Guys,
I just wanted to add my two cents to this seemingly endless discussion. I don't know if you all have noticed, but we do seem to get a steady trickle of people who are new to this hobby. Unless they happen to be mechanically sophisticated, probably one of the first questions they will ask is, "what kind of oil should I put into my Model A?" Perhaps they are new to Fordbarn, and are not familiar with the search functions that the Forum has to offer.

May I counsel patience on this topic? I know we have seen this question and the inevitable responses a thousand times, but we need to
be hospitable and welcome the new Model A'er into the hobby so that he/she will feel welcome here, and able to seek the advice of more experienced gearheads when advice is needed. When I was 17, I had my first Model A, but I already had quite a bit of experience for a kid. These days, it is only the rare youngster that gets that kind of experience, since modern engines are very complicated and computer-controlled.

How is the question, "What kind of oil should I put in my Model A?" any different than, "Do you think it is going to rain, today?" Its a conversation opener, and if we want to have a continuing conversation with new Model A'ers, we start with the basic ice-breakers of simple, clearly stated questions. And if we want friends going forward, we answer them with patience and kindness.

Well, thus endeth the sermon. Happy Motoring, folks! Chris

05-30-2013, 08:09 AM	#1
Chris in CT Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Connecticut Posts: 272	The lubricant discussions, etc. Hi Guys, I just wanted to add my two cents to this seemingly endless discussion. I don't know if you all have noticed, but we do seem to get a steady trickle of people who are new to this hobby. Unless they happen to be mechanically sophisticated, probably one of the first questions they will ask is, "what kind of oil should I put into my Model A?" Perhaps they are new to Fordbarn, and are not familiar with the search functions that the Forum has to offer. May I counsel patience on this topic? I know we have seen this question and the inevitable responses a thousand times, but we need to be hospitable and welcome the new Model A'er into the hobby so that he/she will feel welcome here, and able to seek the advice of more experienced gearheads when advice is needed. When I was 17, I had my first Model A, but I already had quite a bit of experience for a kid. These days, it is only the rare youngster that gets that kind of experience, since modern engines are very complicated and computer-controlled. How is the question, "What kind of oil should I put in my Model A?" any different than, "Do you think it is going to rain, today?" Its a conversation opener, and if we want to have a continuing conversation with new Model A'ers, we start with the basic ice-breakers of simple, clearly stated questions. And if we want friends going forward, we answer them with patience and kindness. Well, thus endeth the sermon. Happy Motoring, folks! Chris