Model A Checklist

[pgerhardt]

I went out to take my tudor out for its weekly run and I had to fiddle a little to get it running. Usually it lights right off. Then I realized that the GAV was closed. There is much to do when starting an A, and I can occasionally forget a step. OK . . . I once had no luck starting when I noticed the ignition switch was off!!

Calling back to my flying days I decided a checklist would be a good idea so I created one. After laminating it I'll use a little rare earth (very strong) magnet to keep it hanging in front of the ignition switch. Since I thought it might useful to others I have posted it below. Click on the PDF icon to download it to your computer.

[Benson]

Good one ...

FYI:

Normal use of GAV calls for 1/4 turn AFTER warm up. So do not forget to return to 1/4 turn slowly as needed while engine warms up.

Colder outside temp calls for longer GAV time or engine might stall until warmed up..

IF it is really cold and engine starts then stalls right away ... it needs 1/4 or so more GAV to keep it running.

[Mitch//pa]

throttle lever should be up at all times except for cold starting

the proper idle is to be set with the throttle stop adjusting screw..
no lever necessary

[Tiny]

I choke mine with the ignition off when its cold. Then turn the key to on and start it

[H. L. Chauvin]

Appears so similar to what most senior Model A men would need to start up the wife's "new" modern digital, push button dishwasher or washing machine.

Thanks for sharing ...... we will all probably need these detailed Model A Start-Up-Directions if we live long enough to acquire a Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in CRS.

CRS can be most humorous at times ..... that is ......... if one has a jovial attitude about ageing.

[Mitch//pa]

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Originally Posted by Tiny

I choke mine with the ignition off when its cold. Then turn the key to on and start it

i do that also
let go of the choke in 1/2 revolution and she fires

[wgmatt]

Thanks for the checklist. With slight modification it will work with my Model T also.

[cp5491r]

Good idea to have for my children if they need to start it after I'm gone
One addition- so many of us have a fuse now on the starter and I often remove the fuse. I'd add on an item that says you have to make sure the fuse is in and it is a good fuse.
Thanks

[Rex_A_Lott]

Nice list, but I'd add :
1- Check the water
2- Check the oil
3- Check the gas

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Originally Posted by H. L. Chauvin

Appears so similar to what most senior Model A men would need to start up the wife's "new" modern digital, push button dishwasher or washing machine.

Thanks for sharing ...... we will all probably need these detailed Model A Start-Up-Directions if we live long enough to acquire a Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in CRS.

CRS can be most humorous at times ..... that is ......... if one has a jovial attitude about ageing.

H.L,
As you've probably noticed, I REFUSE TO GROW UP, I'm 79, going on twenty
Bill W.

[ModelAMike1930]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

H.L,
As you've probably noticed, I REFUSE TO GROW UP, I'm 79, going on twenty
Bill W.

Im 78 going on 40, because I was smarter at age 40---lol

[Bruce Adams]

FWIW, since you are engaging the E-Brake on your "Shutdown Checklist" you might consider RELEASING it on your "Start Checklist."
The aircraft checklist was first developed following the early B-17 tests where it was discovered one was necessary after someone forgot to disengage the elevator lock or something to that effect and caused a crash.

[Patrick L.]

As a flyer I think check lists its can be a good thing.
I rarely [ only during storage] use the master disconnect. I have it there, just in case.
So, as I get out of that old monster I always try to remember to look at the ammeter. Its the last thing I do.

[Mitch//pa]

for me its a habit and as easy as turning off the key.. i even use it at the gas station heehe

mine is convenient under the seat

[pgerhardt]

OK. Here is an updated checklist with all your suggestions.

[pgerhardt]

Originally Posted by Patrick L.

As a flyer I think check lists its can be a good thing.
I rarely [ only during storage] use the master disconnect. I have it there, just in case.
So, as I get out of that old monster I always try to remember to look at the ammeter. Its the last thing I do.

Using the master switch eliminates a stuck cutout or a short causing a fire as an issue. It only takes a second and gives you peace of mind. When flying you would never leave the aircraft before shutting down the master switch, and when putting the flight school aircraft away for the night we would always make sure they were all off.

[Mitch//pa]

on the shutdown list you can remove throttle lever up because it should have already been there

[H. L. Chauvin]

Possible Additions to the CRS List:

If one checks one's tire pressure before slightly longer trips, tires may not wear as much and last lots longer.

If one checks wheel lug tightness, one may come home with all (4) wheels plus the spare.

If one checks headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals, one may feel safe driving home after one re-installs the wheel that one lost because of loose wheel lugs.

If one drives a few blocks away, and waits to check his CRS List twice like Santa ............ and one later finds the wife or girl friend was forgotten ........ just make a sharp "U" turn and get back home as quickly as possible ......... then, let her know you did not forget her.

Just hope this helps in preparing for different levels of CRS.

[Patrick L.]

Originally Posted by pgerhardt

Using the master switch eliminates a stuck cutout or a short causing a fire as an issue. It only takes a second and gives you peace of mind. When flying you would never leave the aircraft before shutting down the master switch, and when putting the flight school aircraft away for the night we would always make sure they were all off.

Thats true. Leave a master switch on and we fine you. One should also use a shut down check list. I haven't left one on yet.

I still rarely use the disconnect on a car. I look at the ammeter. Its easy to reach it and give it a flip, I just don't. Maybe someday it'll give me a reason to do so, it hasn't yet in 40 years. I certainly understand what can happen.

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

TOO BAD we don't have a cut off for our "brain"??, when we go to bed. It helps a "little" when I pull the BLACK sheet over my head!
Yesterday I overslept & my home help gal used the hidden key to get in & "THOUGHT" I had woke up DAID!! The Dorg knows her truck sound & didn't even BARK! I tole you he wuz SCHMARDT!
Bill W.