Ford Model A engine noise

masipopa

Member
I can't pinpoint where this high pitch noise coming from.
Maybe experts on this forum can listen and give me some idea what could be source and fix. Also appreciate if you can tell me if the motor sounds right.
I oiled and greased distributor, generator (though it is pretty old) and water pump, but I'm new so maybe I left a busing dry.
This sound only happen when motor is hot.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LByvyAYHE3w

Any idea is very appreciated.
 
Last edited:
One good trick is to get a long screwdriver and place it various spots around the engine and get your ear pressed right down on the handle. As you mover the "stethoscope" around you can track where the noise gets louder. Good for discovering which valve is noisy and other stuff.
 
Remove the fan belt to eliminate the generator and water pump as a source. You can get closer if needed to locate the source of the noise if it persists. With no fan or belt, listening can be done safer.
 
Sometimes your front mount can squeak, try some oil on the springs, and on the edges of the plate sitting on the frame. Also, if the motor is sitting crooked, the yoke bolt could be rubbing on the edge of the hole through the frame.
 
Sometimes your front mount can squeak, try some oil on the springs, and on the edges of the plate sitting on the frame. Also, if the motor is sitting crooked, the yoke bolt could be rubbing on the edge of the hole through the frame.

I had a similar sound like that after I put my rebuilt engine in. As Chuck suggests, check the front mount. I tightened the nut on the yoke a ½ turn and the sound went away. Sounds crazy but it worked.
 
Last edited:
Sounds like a vacuum leak between the carb and manifold. If you have a Tillotson carb the flange can warp, you can use a flat file on the carb to smooth it out and a new gasket should help.
 
If one of the engine pan attachments breaks, the loose edge can make quite a high pitched, loud noise. Had that happen on my A, and Tom Endy diagnosed it and helped with a fix.
 
I think #7 is onto something suggestiog a vacuum leak. Try spraying carb cleaner around all the connecting surfaces intake manafold carb etc.
 
You did a good job posting a real video with sound. All these answers are good also but I have to agree with Doug, an induction air leak.
 
Doug, you are amazing. I tightened the bolts on carb and manifold and noise disappeared. I was about to take off generator and belt and also remove distributor to search for dry bushing, but what you suggested was the solution. Thanks to everyone for your advice !
 
Kudos to you for asking questions before overhauling the motor! And thank you for posting your findings and fix !
 
Yes, thank you for getting back here and telling everyone what the problem was and the fix. Now, in the future some other owner may find the same issue and simple fix.
 
Back
Top