In Need of Mechanic

[Guest REByar]

Hi All,

I am just starting in this new world of antique autos. I am looking for a mechanic in the Charlotte,NC - Columbia,SC area. I have a 1928 Model A Tudor Sedan. I think I need a new flywheel/clutch assembly. Any guidence would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Randy

[MCHinson]

Welcome to the AACA Discussion Forum. I am in Wilmington, NC, so I am probably too far away to help you. I would suggest you either contact the Hornets Nest Region of AACA or the local Model A Ford Club of America. The two links below should help you find someone in the Charlotte area who can help you. The upcoming Charlotte Autofair would be worth attending as well. You should be able to find any parts you need there.

North Carolina AACA Car shows Show Car Events NC

MAFCA - North Carolina Chapters

[jpage]

Changing a clutch and flywheel isn't a terribly difficult task although you do have to move the rear end back to clear the transmission. It makes things easier if you can remove the rear fenders. If your car has a multiple disc clutch assy. you may be having problems with the clutch itself as they are a lot different than the single disc. The drum in the flywheel has a tendancy to get packed up with dust and foul the clutch action. It's a good idea to contact one of the local "A" clubs for help! Good luck!

[Guest REByar]

Thanks for the invitation. I contacted the local club in SC, that I joined and asked the same question. I did not get a single response. I guess experienced Model A mechanics are kept secrete in SC. I was able to fix my problem. It was the starter and the starter gear. When I took out the starter and was able to slowly turn the flywheel there were no missing teeth just some scratching on the outside(the backside) of the flywheel. Determined that the starter was throwing the gear too far out. How that can happen I have no idea. I replaced the damaged starter gear and put two washers on each of the three bolts that hold the starter and put it back together. That was it. Hit the starter and all worked fine. I had to make the gasket a little thicker but have not had any problems since. But I am still looking for a mechanic. Thanks

[JFranklin]

I use Bratton's as a parts supply and they have a good selection of reference manuals concerning the mechanicals of your car. Your fix was creative but there must be some underlying trouble that you should sort out. does your car have the correct starter bendix?

[Lebowski]

I needed a Model A mechanic so I did a search for Model A's for sale in the Louisville Craigslist and called one of the ads. I told the seller I would give him $50 to come out (to the next county-about 30 miles) and look at it and he did and he fixed the problem. I gave him more than $50 and it was well worth it to me so give that idea a try in your area. Good luck....

[Guest REByar]

Thanks for the idea of going to one of the NC Chapters( the one in charlotte). I was able to find a mechanic that is less than 25 miles away.