1927 Buick Speedster project

[Motorpirate]

Starting construction of a wood firewall from scrap plywood as a pattern (final version to be oak).

The engine is longer than the hood, so it protrudes out the back.

How much distance needs to be left to avoid the danger of fire?

[edinmass]

There is no fire danger from the engine, only the exhaust manifold. Anything closer than four inches should have a metal shield to prevent charring. Personally, I would use a metal covering over the entire firewall.

[arcticbuicks]

a few cars of similar year had wood firewall and close ......with no problems

[DFeeney]

Once you have the wood firewall finished  and everything mounted put a sheet  metal face on the engine side.  Speedster projects are fun and you don't end up underwater if you do most of the work yourself.

[Oldtech]

Like Ed Says. The Exhaust manifold is the only hot spot. Protect that and you will be ok.

[arcticbuicks]

my 1929 nash 400 and 420 are all wood firewall........and no more than a inch and half from exhaust and engine.......still not charcoal .......so you should be good

[DFeeney]

I have noticed on my Speedsters, I get engine compartment residue  on the firewall.  I would think a wood firewall would be hard to keep clean.

[Rusty_OToole]

If you want a steel firewall get a cheap wheelbarrow from the hardware store and use it for the recess. An old trick.

[DFeeney]

The idea's posted on the forum never cease to amaze me.