I-6 '53 engine low power [213"]
- Thread starter Newc
- Start date
rotorwrench
Well-known member
The counter weight is there to allow the thermostatic spring to function easier. The valve is only to open exhaust heat to the intake manifold for warm up. When the valve is closed, all the exhaust goes down and out. This is a good link.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1494398-1952-215-6-cylinder-heat-riser-questions-3.html
After the engine is shut down and cools off, the counterweight should be in the up position with spring tension to hold it that way. This would be the open position. After many years of operation, this stuff can get carboned up and the spring can lose it's tension. It could end up stuck wide open or it can carbon up in the closed position. When stuck in the intake heat position (open) then the intake manifold will run hot all the time. It may be a bit low on power that way but it should still run.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1494398-1952-215-6-cylinder-heat-riser-questions-3.html
After the engine is shut down and cools off, the counterweight should be in the up position with spring tension to hold it that way. This would be the open position. After many years of operation, this stuff can get carboned up and the spring can lose it's tension. It could end up stuck wide open or it can carbon up in the closed position. When stuck in the intake heat position (open) then the intake manifold will run hot all the time. It may be a bit low on power that way but it should still run.
38 coupe
Well-known member
The heat valve was very stuck on my 53 when I went to rebuild the engine. We ended up cutting the inside valve part out and leaving the shaft with weight and spring on the outside. The engine runs fine that way.
Before going into the exhaust, take a look at the tune up. The point gap, initial ignition advance, and particularly the vacuum advance are very important for a good running 215.
Also, be aware that the available head gaskets are thicker than original and some of the rebuilder pistons used over the years are lower compression than factory. I lost power when I rebuilt the 215 in my 53 sedan, but it runs much smoother and doesn't leak all over the place. Without modification the 215 will not quite have the power of a good running V8, but will drive you anywhere.
Before going into the exhaust, take a look at the tune up. The point gap, initial ignition advance, and particularly the vacuum advance are very important for a good running 215.
Also, be aware that the available head gaskets are thicker than original and some of the rebuilder pistons used over the years are lower compression than factory. I lost power when I rebuilt the 215 in my 53 sedan, but it runs much smoother and doesn't leak all over the place. Without modification the 215 will not quite have the power of a good running V8, but will drive you anywhere.