The Ford Barn

Chris in CT · 08-25-2010, 08:47 AM

For a few years now I have been hearing from numerous sources that removing weight from the flywheel will cause the Model A to loose speed when climbing hills. Since I have a new slung (counterbalanced) crankshaft in my own car, I experimented first with removing about 8 lbs. at the time the crank was installed, then this past winter I had the full 20 lbs. removed with the V-8 clutch installed. So, within the period of a few years, I have had the stock flywheel, 8 lbs lightened, and 20 pounds lightened. Yes, the engine has a B cam, and a 5.5:1 head. I have to say that I have noticed no loss of speed climbing hills since the 40 lb flywheel was installed. Hill climbing performance is about the same as it was with the heavier iron. What I have noticed, however, is that the engine is very sensitive to the set of the advance (timing) lever, much more so that with the stock or 54 lb iron. I've gotten used to playing with it, as opposed to set-it-and-forget-it, and have learned where it needs to be for lower speeds, high speeds, and hill climbing with foot to the floor. I should say that I do my driving on route 22 in New York between Lake George and Lake Champlain in the summer. Those of you who know the route will know that there are some very challenging hills on this road, as well as the back roads connected to it. I'd be interested in hearing from others on this topic...

08-25-2010, 08:47 AM	#1
Chris in CT Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Connecticut Posts: 272	Lightened Flywheel - slower hills? For a few years now I have been hearing from numerous sources that removing weight from the flywheel will cause the Model A to loose speed when climbing hills. Since I have a new slung (counterbalanced) crankshaft in my own car, I experimented first with removing about 8 lbs. at the time the crank was installed, then this past winter I had the full 20 lbs. removed with the V-8 clutch installed. So, within the period of a few years, I have had the stock flywheel, 8 lbs lightened, and 20 pounds lightened. Yes, the engine has a B cam, and a 5.5:1 head. I have to say that I have noticed no loss of speed climbing hills since the 40 lb flywheel was installed. Hill climbing performance is about the same as it was with the heavier iron. What I have noticed, however, is that the engine is very sensitive to the set of the advance (timing) lever, much more so that with the stock or 54 lb iron. I've gotten used to playing with it, as opposed to set-it-and-forget-it, and have learned where it needs to be for lower speeds, high speeds, and hill climbing with foot to the floor. I should say that I do my driving on route 22 in New York between Lake George and Lake Champlain in the summer. Those of you who know the route will know that there are some very challenging hills on this road, as well as the back roads connected to it. I'd be interested in hearing from others on this topic...