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Old 03-31-2021, 10:18 PM   #1
daveymc29
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Default The Ace Mechanic Again

New Engines, Tod or Burtz? Any thoughts? I don't feel that I have the ability or tools to finish one of these engines. Do we get one of the major builders to complete the project for us and if so have we just driven the cost up there to compare with the Donavans? $30k to $40k plus. Are any of the major shops offering their services and any kind of guarantee? To avoid controversy or ruffling any feathers, you may wish to email me, [email protected] or call 925 820 0394.

Thanks much

Dave Mc Arthur
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Old 03-31-2021, 11:52 PM   #2
Chris Haynes
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

With the Burtz engine nothing special needs to be done. Get the additional needed parts and bolt it together as you would build any other engine.
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Old 04-01-2021, 12:35 AM   #3
Terry Burtz, Calif
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

Dave,

Thanks for your question. I hope that Tod responds.

The "New Model A Engine Kit" is ready for assembly. No machine work is required.

The end price depends on your choice of parts and how you want your "New Engine" to perform.

We prefer to sell to engine builders who have the equipment and knowledge to build an engine that is surgically clean for long life and can guarantee their work.

We are also selling to parts retailers and individuals, but have reservations about an engine being assembled in a dirt floor garage without a wash tank or air compressor to ensure cleanliness.

The 3 engine builders nearest to your location that are building engines utilizing the "New Engine Kits" are Dave Del Mue, Morgan Hill, CA (408) 772-2518, Steve Becker, Bert's Model A Ford Center, Englewood, CO (303) 910-9436, and Dave Gerold, Durable Performance, New Prague, MN, (952) 290-3630.

I suggest that you call one of these engine builders to get their honest opinion regarding the quality of the "New Engine Kit", and talk to them about what you want.

Go to www.modelaengine.com, click on "Guides", and open the "Builders Guide" to read about the assembly of the "New Engine".
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Old 04-01-2021, 12:48 AM   #4
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

Terry,

Are you aware of any engine builders in Central or Southern California that are using your engine Kit or that you recommend?

David Serrano
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Old 04-01-2021, 01:13 AM   #5
Terry Burtz, Calif
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

David,

Check with Clyde Marion who has 11 "New Engine Kits" or Dennis Kliesen. Since I'm not sure if they are commercial rebuilders, I am hesitant to publicize their contact information.

Please email me at [email protected] and I will provide contact information.
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Old 04-01-2021, 02:40 PM   #6
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Terry, thanks for the personal reply. As you probably know I'm 84 years old, operating out of my garage, like so many hobbyists. I will take my order to one of you recommended builders when the time comes. I really appreciate your time and effort and will pass on what I know of your product to my fellow club members.

Dave Mc Arthur
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Old 04-02-2021, 02:31 PM   #7
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

When I was a teenager I remove my A engine from the bottom!! I took the wheels off the front, set the car down on the axle, removed a bunch of stuff, dropped the engine on a creaper on blocks of wood, jacked car up and slid the engine out. I couldn't put it back in the reverse way, need help and dad and my two brothers picked the engine up and in the frame using a couple of straps..............dad said you won't do this again! It did keep me out of trouble ---- for awhile :-)
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Old 04-02-2021, 02:41 PM   #8
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

Do you have an educated guess as to what the final cost will be? Wayne
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Old 04-02-2021, 06:27 PM   #9
Dave in MN
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

McMimmcs,
I just did a quick calculation. About $700 will get you the new parts you need to get the engine to short block state. Want a new camshaft instead of a re-regrind...add $350.
Pistons, rings, regrind a used cam, timing gears, bearing inserts and rear seal, valve kit with guides and springs, set of Colony tappets, fit the pins to the rods.

Plus whatever your engine builder would charge to get to that point. The machining on the block is complete. Just sand, file or grind the sharp edges and clean.
This block, crankshaft and rods (kit) is a good piece of work! I'm impressed with the kit shipped to me.
Good Day!
Dave in MN

Last edited by Dave in MN; 04-03-2021 at 05:54 AM.
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Old 04-02-2021, 06:29 PM   #10
Chris Haynes
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

Turlock Machine is a very competent engine builder.
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Old 04-02-2021, 06:45 PM   #11
McMimmcs
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dave in MN View Post
McMimmcs,
I just did a quick calculation. About $700 will get you the new parts you need to get the engine to short block state.
Pistons, rings, regrind a used cam, timing gears, bearing inserts and rear seal, valve kit with guides and springs, set of Colony tappets, fit the pins to the rods.

Plus whatever your engine builder would charge to get to that point. The machining on the block is complete. Just sand, file or grind the sharp edges and clean.
This block, crankshaft and rods (kit) is a good piece of work! I'm impressed with the kit shipped to me.
Good Day!
Dave in MN
Thank you, that was kind of you. Wayne
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Old 04-02-2021, 06:46 PM   #12
Herb Concord Ca
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Default Re: The Ace Mechanic Again

However get a firm date on completing the engine from him.
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