Model A in the mountains

29RPU said:
Thinking about taking the ol' Phaeton to the mountains soon (maybe spring, I'm not sure) but I was wondering how they do in the mountains. Will they accelerate in 3rd, or is climbing quite slow?? and how is the compression in third coming down a slope? Will they hold themselves back, or do they usually need a lot of brake pedal? Thanks.
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About 10 years ago several of us shipped our A's to Europe and drove over the Swiss Alps. Sometimes we would be in 1st gear going up for 25 - 30 minutes and did fine. We always came down in the same gear we used going up. I'm surprised no one else has mentioned this trip.
 
to Buyitsmart--to follow up on the Mitchell overdrive: I have had mine now for almost 5 years and personally would not own a Model A without it, at least here in S. Calif. As Tom Endy mentioned, most of us use it when we get over 45 mph on the freeway. As he said, 2nd OD is very handy for mountain driving when 3rd is too high, but regular 2nd too low. I also have found 2nd OD very hand when driving on the freeway in heavy traffic...just shifting back and forth between 2nd and 2nd OD. In the Mitchell, the OD unit is synchromesh, so shifting that lever is very easy. A very nice unit, and the only drawback is cost...they are expensive, and some do not like the idea of an additional shift lever. With it engaged, cruising at 55-60 mph is very comfortable and quiet!
 
TerryH-Thanks. I ordered both the Mitchell transmission and overdrive on Tuesday. They are running a 10 week backlog.
After hearing all the positive comments I concluded it was my best option for handling the mountains in western NC, which I visit 4-6 times per year. My next thought is cast iron drums and maybe a Flat Head Ted wheel floater kit so I can be assured of stopping...I currently have stock brake drums without the bands.
 
Those are all good choices and you will have the start of a nice touring car, able to handle a variety of conditions. Since I have a Town Sedan, I also had the Snyder 5.5 HC head installed along with an Aries muffler. Let us know how everything works when you get it all installed and running again, and good luck!
 
Thanks. I installed an Aries muffler last week and I am happy with the results. I, too, am installing a Snyder's 5.5 head. My engine pressure checked out at 61, 63, 64, and 64 lbs in the cylinders. In your opinion do those compression figures indicate my engine can properly handle the high compression head?
 
I think you will do fine with the Synder HC head....just be sure to torque to the correct values and use the recommended gasket. That head adds nice additional power, and works especially well with the OD.
 
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