Red Hot Exhaust

myford7

Junior Member
I'm pretty new at these Model A's. Need the expert advice now. Just completing a 100$ disassembly and restoration of 30 coupe that I inherited from father-in-law; including engine overhaul. Just fired engine today for two minutes. Sounded great and ran smooth; but muffler was burning red hot just below exhaust pipe. I remember reading something about this a while back but have been able to find article again. I think it has to do something with spark adjustment or air leak. Need your assistance on this one. Thanks in advance.
 
Timing!

I have read a number of times over the last year about this same problem.

In 60 years, I have never seen the problem first hand. People have mentioned both manifold and/or exhaust pipe glowing.

I would check your timing. Could be to retarted. Enjoy.
 
Once the ignition timing is correctly or has been correctly set previously, the engine is stated with the spark lever [ left side lever] all the way up. Once the engine is running the lever is to be pulled down about 1/2 -2/3 of the full travel.

I'm thinking you have left the lever fully up causing the problem you describe.
 
Many years ago I lent my AA truck to a relative. He returned it smelling very hot but not boiling . With the engine still running I lifted the hood and the exhaust manifold was a dull cherry red . He had driven 15 miles with the spark lever fully retarded despite being fully instructed ." I forgot" he said ,shortly after the head gasket failed but otherwise no harm done .

John in sunshine on the way at last Suffolk County England .
 
thanks everyone for your input. Got it timed correctly and runs great!!!!!!!!!
Congratulations on figuring out the problem. This is something that has frustrated many mechanics/hobbyists over the years.
Now that you know "what" caused the problem, an interesting research project would be to find out why. This is a basic part of the combustion process of internal combustion engines.
Good Luck and welcome to the very interesting world of antique automobiles and Model A Fords.
 
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