Re: Stuck up

Posted by John Icenhower on August 04, 1998 at 21:30:23

In Reply to: Re: Stuck up
posted by James Shotwell on August 04, 1998 at 20:33:27

: Richard, I'm new to model As, so I have been reading a lot.
: I can't remember where but I read a tip concerning your problem. Hope you can still run engine. Tip said loosen head bolts 1 turn and start engine. Compression will POP the head loose. Maybe some of the old timers will comment.
Don't know how old I am ;-) but in Les Andrews' book "Model A Ford Mechanics Handbook" he says to:
1) Drain the radiator
2) Loosen the generator mounting bolt to allow removal of the fan belt.This releases stress on the front of the head.
3) Loosen every head stud nut at least 1/2 the thread length of the nut.This should raise the nuts at least 1/8" above head on each stud.The front two nuts can be removed.
4) Squirt your WD-40 (or Kroil) or Liquid Wrench liberally around every stud and let soak for one or two days.This will soften any rust formed around the studs in the head.
5) Start the engine.After about the second revolution, the head will pop loose.With loss of compression, the engine will immediately stop.You can now start disassembly with a loose head.
6) Order Les' book from
Cottage Hill Publishing
22126 Cottage Hill Dr.
Grass Valley, CA 95949
$32.95 + $5.50 s&h
MC & Visa accepted
7)See section IV on troubleshooting engine noises...
Good luck,
John

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