Great video. Thanks for all your hard work. These excellent videos should convince existing Model A owners to drive their vehicles more. Also, it demonstrates that Model A's are still very drivable in 2021. Not being real familiar with Overdrive, I found the following: Per Wikipedia, generally speaking, overdrive is the highest gear in the transmission or in an Overdrive System. Overdrive System allows the engine to operate at a lower RPM for a given road speed like cruising at 45 mph. This allows the vehicle to achieve better fuel efficiency, and often quieter operation on the highway. Do you also use Overdrive for ascending hills in the Model A? Do you disengage it when descending a hill?
Thank you for your kind words! Overdrive is useful for some hills, but not all. In the video (link in description) where I show how to use the overdrive, I go over some of that and show how.
@@ModelA Maybe it was your videos that finally made me become a Model A owner again. I have to blame someone and my kids threaten to put me in a nursing home if I keep blaming them for everything.
I have already installed a Mitchell overdrive, but you did a great video. I loved how they added the mesh coverings over the shafts for shipping. Just the packing of the product shows how much they care about the customer.
Well done Paul! Your efforts bring back memories of the mid 50's when my buddy an I "tom catted" in a 5 window coup. We did what boys did and enjoyed the times. My buddy has passed, but I am still around and have my memories. I certainly have times when I would like to have a 5 window coup.
@@ModelA This is unbelievable! These cars are unbelievable ! By the way my daily driver is a 97 Mitsubishi montero suv Relatively old compared to most people with 2020 cars. I have a few project cars which are now drivable. I'm a big car buff. And I know about restoration, and a little about everything.
What is really funny is I love watching you work. Makes me want to own a model A so that I could actually fix it myself instead of one of the modern computer cars.
hey Paul, watching this channel has caused me to fall in love with these A's and start working on my grandfathers Model A that was left in a barn for about 40 years, keep up the awesome videos!
Hey Jordan, enjoy the way you work thru a project, start to finish, no matter what your working on, everything you do is impressive, common sense and skill works every time....Ralph
I wish I would have seen this video 10 years ago...LOL I have a Mitchell in my 29 Roadster, and the Threads striped off the axle. I took the hole rear apart , and when I did that I changed the gears from 411 to 378, I used a bearing puller to pull the pinion gear off, and split the drive shaft , from the top of it to the cotter pin hole. you made that look very easy. i wish i would have done it that way. When called Sue Mitchell, and told her I needed a driveshaft, she said she never heard of one cracking like mine did ! Thanks
I have seen them split like yours did a few times. That's why I never use a puller to get the pinion carrier assembly off. That nut on the end protects the end of the shaft and the treads, and using the BANG is the best way to remove a tapered fit anything.
Good video Paul very well explained. Cheers Ian Langley New Zealand proud owner of a 1966 Ford Mustang. I love the older generation cars. so simple and uncomplicated to work on.
Man 26% will make a big difference! Reminds me of the Borg Warner "4+3" O.D. unit on the C4 corvettes. It was meant to be used as a "5th gear" but it worked in 2nd-4th gear so there were many gear splitting possibilities. Really cool idea.
“Learn by doing” that’s how I came to buy my ‘31 standard rumble seat coup ( thorn brown!). It had a bad throw out bearing. I was reassured “ there’s nothing to it” and that as t how came to know my model “A” I used a floor jack and my son’s skateboard. Thank you. Your video had all of the key details. Thank you!.
This has very quickly become one of my favorite channels. I'm a dodge guy and would love to get my hands on a series 124/6/8. Seeing up close looks at these fords is really interesting. And man are these ones nice.
I stumbled onto a 31 model A last July when a grandkid was emptying his grandpa's house contents mostly into a dumpster, and he had a model A with froze up engine and brakes sitting in the carport ! Last time it ran was 1997, and apparently someone pushed on the brake pedal, and locked the brake shoes onto the drums, so the grandson didn't have much hope for it, and needed it out of there !! Was in the right spot at the right time, Aired up the tires and drug it on my friends trailer with a winch and now it is sitting in my driveway, waiting for me to get everything loose again !! I never had an A Ford before, but doesn't look right to me ? Title says it is a 31 convertible, but the wheels are not wire, and it has hydraulic brakes with STUCK master cylinder and wheel cylinders, Engine was stuck too, but my friend broke that loose with a 12 volt assist ! Did 31's have hydraulic brakes, or was that added along the way ?? The wheels have Pontiac hub caps on them, and the left of the steering column doesn't have advance / retard lever, so do I have a Model A, or just a pile of random parts, the grandpa put together ? I saw it on the streets around town in 96 or 97, and always wanted a ride in it, but never got the chance, so now I have my chance now !!! The grandpa was a carpenter, so it has homemade plywood on it with old countertop metal trim, but looks cool to me with tan colored plywood, with root beer colored fenders !! The tires have held air all winter after airing them up last fall, so I'm excited to get whatever it is I have running ! Thanks for t your videos, it has helped my enthusiasm ! I told the grandson I would give him a ride if I can get it going ! THANKS for your AWESOME videos, I'm learning a lot, and want to drive it back and forth to the Post Office this summer !! Matt, your # 1 FAN
Love your attitude Doug(just kidding). I don't know Doug. My wife and I have collected model A's for years. Nothing like yours or others. We have eight double AA's converted in tractors by veterans coming home with land but no tractors. There where just laying around in the pucker brush i would guess. Most have two transmission's and a few with underdrive's to gear them down. Chain them up and go farming. I've taken a few to Minnesota tractor shows ten years ago,and was the only one there and now there's maybe twenty every year. Drug them out of the back of the shed or under the shad tree. Very positive response 👍. Brian and Debi. Mine are always looking for the ditch if over 40 mph.
@Paul - Your knowledge of the rear axle and its components is outstanding! Excellent tutorial video. And your injected humor throughout the videos really makes for a great show!
Thanks again Paul . I have a hard time finding a shop to work on my 29 Fordor or my 31 coupe. They want me to leave them outside their shop till they can get to them and I’m not going to do that so I just figure it out myself and fix it at home and your videos help. Keep them coming . 👍👍
I can't think of many sights and soudns as relaxing as someone who knows what they're doing, driving a model A. Shifting combined with the exhaust note and transmission whine are make for an intoxicating mix of mechanical ballet and music. Thanks for the great video, Paul! I'm still amazed at how much aftermarket support there is for a Model A.
Yes, indeed! The Model A does have what I believe the most aftermarket support of any automobile its age. Just amazing! Now, if I could get some of those vendors to sponsor the channel... Imagine all the helpful videos that could be made...
Paul terrific content, thoroughly enjoyed...my dad had a 31, we used to ride on the beach in NJ with it when I was a kid, special tires/wheels he would swap out! (I'm 60) My dad said it was the only regret in his life was selling his 31 Model A!!
It's great that you concentrate on the Model A's mechanicals and tolerances. While restoring the upholstery, body, and paint is very important and visible, the mechanics of the brakes, steering, etc., make for a reliable and fun car or truck. We owned a beautifully painted Model A that didn't run well due to corrosion in the gas tank and didn't stop well because the brake system wasn't restored. It wasn't fun to drive an unreliable Model A.
Right. A lot of people who have criticism for the way a Model A drives or steers or brakes and basing their opinion on very poorly maintained or "restored" examples. Either that or they have no experience at all and make assumptions.
Paul watched the video from beginning to end, I’ll tell you if I owned a Model A and had to do that all myself, I think I would live without a overdrive. Great job.
Good one Paul;love the vid and love the A miodel!!!! One little thing I noted: as you adjust the preload on the bearings at 22:00 .... normally you allow for a tiny bit of play when adjusting the preload with the adjustment nut because when you tighten the locknut on top of it the adjustment nut will be pushed forward because the nuts have some play on the thread!!!!.... I mosttimes tighten the adjustment nut than untighten until play can be felt and than untighten it another 30 degrees or so..... you can than feel a bit of play.... after you tightened the lock nut this play will be gone... This sort of lay out is quite common on rearaxle wheelbearings of heavier trucks. I am eager to buy a Model A myself as there is a Canadian ‘28 A model for sale nearby... Greetings,Henk,Netherlands.
Paul uses a fixed box end wrench as a breakover, then after the nuts are loosened, uses his ratcheting box-end. Great tool management for long life of the tools!
Thanks for the fun videos Paul! I drove a Tudor sedan in high school and college and now I’m watching for the right Model A to come along... Here’s a polite suggestion, run your mic cable down your pant leg for a neater look.
Thanks Jay. I never try to hide the mic wire, just keep it out of the way. Sometimes I use the wireless, but it has dropouts now and then so not reliable. Perhaps it's time to take it up a notch and to more professional? NAH!!! I'm just a luddite with an iphone and no ego, man. Mic wire and all.
Oh, I'm a firm believer in tech manuals. The engineers that designed the (whatever) knew a lot more about it than I do! Using the specific torque values save trouble down the road. Obviously, some items are okay within a very broad range, but critical fasteners? Thanks Paul, I'll get to All of your videos, just gimme time!
Thanks Paul - this is definitely on my project list. If I knew you were looking for a car I would have gladly loaned you my Model A. Always well done videos.
hi Paul, this is Albert from Vienna, Austria, I am owning a 1929 Roadster Pickup (original from Iowa), 1929 Phaeton full restoration (original from Uruguay and bought in Orlando as a total wreck) and a 1930 RHD Fodor Town Sedan de Lux with full leather and sliding panorama roof assembled in UK. They breed hahaha
That was very interesting I wish I could afford a Ford Model A. I live in the UK, when I was 16 I was caught driving a Ford poplar I bought for £3 with the big ends knocking that's how I learnt to drive I'm 68 now and I've always loved the old style cars with running boards and separate headlights, beautiful.
There is nothing like the sound of a Model A engine, Paul you have got that installation to such an art form, you may need to change your name to Mitchell. Bet you are glad of Henrys "steel to the wheel" brakes, saves a lot of messing around with bleeding. Great outcome.
Paul, I totally agree with all the other comments “Your best video yet!” I am the current custodian of a ’31 Vicky. It is my understanding that installation of the Mitchell o/d is different due to the flat floor in the back seat. Can you please comment? Thanks! Bill
Good morning Paul, My goodness we have really enjoyed you well explained and good work installation. Hmmmm, as soon I finalize my restoration of my A, I might consider this Mitchell Overdrive, need to see the your video of how to use this overdrive, as here in Curaçaose don’t have highways like in the US, but its a nice option to have on the car. Thanks again Paul, for your top quality and well covered you tube footages. Regards The Jacobs.
Great video Pal! Had the Mitchel installed in my 30 Coupe by Tom in Westminster Ca. and would like to put one in my Fordor in Tulsa (by Moi') First of all, yes, I really enjoy the OD! Just terrific and really adds to my daily driving. Looking forward to some day seeing my 30 Fordor driving the same. Both are daily drivers from coffee shop trips to 50 + mile days and 200 mile + weeks. NICE WORK.....THANKS! (OCFMAC)
Dang! This was really great to see, since we just got 5 inches of snow so our 31 coupe is in hibernation. Of course now I just have Mitchel Overdrive on my brain...Thanks Paul always fantastic!
Enjoyed watching you install the overdrive, I should have a model A I like to drive about 35 to 45 mph of course I'm 70 years old and live in the country, its my job to slow people down or so my kids say thats what I must think.
Great vid Paul! I never realized how much faster the job goes when it’s got a camera going! No wonder my jobs take so much longer!!😁 Keep em coming! God bless, Steve A.
Ha ha! Then how come this 6 to 8 hour job took 3 days??? Dang! Setting up each shot, reshooting stuff, etc. takes a LOT longer than just doing the job. Then, there's 3 days of editing....
Hi Paul Big Big thank you I did not know about the snap ring inside the torque tube and I just got done watching your overdrive video it is a big help to me thanks and God bless
Been a Subscriber to your channel for 4 year's now @Paul, I've always been a nut when it comes to old cars that were simpler and beautiful ❤. From all the classics I've seen an enjoy the model a ford is my personal favorite, with 1957 chevy bel air being my 2nd favorite 😊. Considering I'm a tall guy, standing at 6'7" age 23, I'm lookin to get a tudor sedan, an adjusting the seats to help with comfort. Not to mention I'll definitely put in a overdrive for driving long distance 😉. So with my long speech done, you've wone me over an I'll be a model 'A' fan for the rest of my life ❤ so thank you Paul an two your lovely wife 'Model T'. Greetings to you from the state of Kansas 🌻~ P.S. I'm also a sub to your wife's channel two 😉.
Shout out to you!! My adopted dad is from Wichita. Tudor is a great choice! Not just because it will fit you better, but because they are the most versatile too.
Indeed 😊, hopefully one day we might bump into each other during a modal a festival 😉. Also nice that your adopted dad lives in witchta, my aunt lives there as well ❤.
Great video Paul, sure could have used it years ago when we installed a Mitchell Overdrive. It's a great product for your Model A and well worth the price. Thank your again for your Videos that I use as refresher courses.
Great detailed installation of the overdrive. However, this installation makes assembling a sofa from Ikea look simple in comparison. Owning a Model A isn't for the mechanically faint-hearted! I am impressed! Your mechanical skills remind me of my granddad's, who happened to also own a Model A in the 1930s, which he drove 30 miles daily for many years.
Please buy another Model A fix it up and then I will buy from you. lol A Victoria would be nice. I had a Mitchell overdrive in my 1930 six window fordor. Overdrive makes all the difference. Loved this video. When I bought mine it already had it installed. Nice to see what it took to install one. Really like your videos.
Paul, you must be way more less of a klutz than I am. There is no way I would have been wrenching (especially with parts big enough to span the terminals) so close to the battery without taking precautions. If I can screw it up, I will! Great video and very informative.
I'm an electrical engineer in my real job and I work with very high voltage broadcast equipment. So in my world, 6 volts isn't even an issue. If it sparks, it won't be much. Truthfully, I wasn't as close to the terminals as it looked.
@@ModelA The Model A's are more fun! I was an elevator technician and an elevator contractor as well as an elevator inspector and an electrician. Had a friend that owned Tower Elevator and a few times I worked with him on broadcaster tower elevators. You better not be afraid of heights. Those are deadly insane to work on.
I just watched this for the 3rd 4th time. Mo.A overdrive mitchel 26% doesn't seem to be very much. 36% I would say is better Wish is alittle more Than .7to1.0. I used to work on Lincoln's Mercury's And Chevrolet products manual And automatic Transmissions The Corvette had a 6 Speed man. With 5th and 6th were Abt .7to1 and .5to1 4th speed in the automatic was .7to1 Wich is abt 30% Over the top. Around 1985 86 you Could get a the corvette with a Dougnash 4 on the floor with a 2speed Auto integrated behind it. The speed were Direct and overdrive Electrically shifted With a button on the Side of the shifter Was very meticulous to overhaul. And the shift linkages were a hassle to adjust. The Ford Model A looks very simple nicely done Paul. I worked on many Ford manuals and automatics as well. Live long Paul. Dwight.
If I could have hit the Like Button 100 times I would have! Excellent video Paul ! And it was very nice seeing the Mrs. after she adjusted the brake rods! I have to say that you're really inspiring me to buy a Model A. And don't think I missed your beautiful Tudor in the background. Do you think it was easier leaving the seat in the car or would you advise removing it? Do you recall if torque figures were included with the Mitchell kit? Do you plan to install a Mitchell EZ-Check Oil Kit? I see your buddy has the same battery(s) that I put in my 1948 Chrysler Windsor. I was concerned about a possible generator failure away from home at night time so I installed two of those Optima's wired in Parallel. Did you remember to put me on the list should you decide to sell your Tudor?
Leaving the seat in and covering it gives me something to lean on. No torque figures included. It's all you. No, not going to install the EZ oil check gizmo. I switched to Optima batteries in all my Model As. You want my tudor sedan, huh? You're gonna need a BIG checkbook!
@@ModelA I wondered if the seat might be left in to lean on. Thanks. I just learned about the EZ Oil Check thing. I asked you because Mitchell Manufacturing states common leakage into the torque tube while being unknown to the owner. I've never regretted buying my Optima batteries. I think your Tudor fits the Model A that I would want--and I trust you. My checkbook is handsome. Thanks for replying Paul.
Ha ha! Thanks man. Those are all clips from my videos. The Batman PJ's make two appearances. One ended up on the cutting room floor, the other is in a video.
Very good work , I liked the you using jack stands safety first. Your video was excellent, keep up the good work the old cars all had class. Tks 👍👍👍 🍁 Canada
As I was looking at the very large leaf spring I was wondering if there are suspension upgrades for a Model A? And excellent job on the installation and I really enjoyed watching the video.
"Upgrades"? I have seen lots of hot rodders do upgrades that seem to change various aspects of the ride, but none ever make it better. Just different. Best upgrade you can make is rebuilding your shock absorbers and then setting them all exactly the same. What a difference that makes!
Paul you do an excellent job, on your Model A's, like your channel, very interesting review and drives on the various types of Model A's. I like them all . Take care, Paul and wife also, keep up the good work, on the Model A hobby! Kevin Phoenix
I love your channel. I have been seriously thinking about putting that overdrive in mine. I already have there updated transmission in mine currently .
Now I know you have an Air compressor but to see this done using basic hand tools for the everyday home enthusiast was a treat. So basically this is a one day job, interesting. Does Mitchell offer different options for their overdrive gearing and if so, which do you think is best. Seems to me you need two more Model A's a coupe and a pickup...oops and a roadster... oops and a sport coupe, lol. Can't never have too many, lol. Job well done including a great detailed video... Thank you.
Great video but you should have installed the Mitchell Synchro gearbox at the same time. Gearing is 15% higher & matches perfectly with the Overdrive unit. I own a '31 Model A Slant 160B Show Car here in Australia, a multi award winner & driveability has improved 100%. Trouble is now, it goes so fast, the mechanical brakes have trouble slowing it down but set up properly, with braking from the rear first, it now stops reasonably well.
I have the Mitchell transmission in one of my Model A's. Only 1st and 2nd gears are 15% higher (each is an individual option, or opt for both). Since 3rd gear is straight through, it is not 15% higher. Anyway, not everyone wants or needs the synchro transmission. In fact, I kinda prefer the stock transmission. Especially considering the price tag of the Mitchell transmission.
@@ModelA Fact is Paul, these old cars were never designed to drive at more than 60kph ( 35mph) & anything that makes them safer to drive in todays traffic conditions, has to be an advantage. I had my doubts about how good the Mitchell stuff was, until my local importer convinced me the cost wasn't an issue when it came to how good it made the Model A drive & he was dead right. I defy any Model A owner to drive a synchro car & then not say the mod was well worth the dollars. Simply put, if Henry Ford could have done it, he would have but the extra cost of Synchronization & Overdrive units would have killed sales with the extra cost!
Perhaps Henry Ford would have installed synchro transmission sooner, I agree. Everything else, I disagree. The Model A could do 65 MPH right out of the factory with 45-50 being pretty normal cruising speed on the rare flat road. A synchro transmission doesn't make it "safer", only slightly more convenient for those who struggle with the stock transmission. For those of us with many thousands of miles driving Model A's in their stock form, shifting a stock trans is second nature. So, to answer your comment, "I defy any Model A owner to drive a synchro car & then not say the mod was well worth the dollars", I am here to tell you that I disagree. I have a Mitchell synchronized transmission in just one of my Model A's, and the decision to keep all my others stock is not for financial reasons. It's because I prefer them that way. Same from some of my fellow club members. Yes, there are a few who prefer the synchro trans. I'm not at all saying nobody does, just that your assumption is incorrect. Not all prefer it.
@@ModelA Must be a different attitude to driving here in Australia Paul but my importer is doing these conversions every week because owners absolutely prefer to spend the dough to improve the ease at which these cars can be driven, especially around town where changing down at roundabouts is a real pain. I've been double clutching for many of my 71 years & it one component in my car that was absolutely annoying, especially given the synchro is build INSIDE the old casing......brilliant. Mitchell make these modifications because they're popular & the demand in the US & around the world is apparent. BTW, the Mitchell Overdrive made two fundamental mistakes & if Sue Mitchell was alive today, I'd tell her. Using silicon sealant when joining the half shafts to the overdrive unit & using black 7/8" cap screws to also join the same components instead of cad plated items. Nothing looks worse than rusty nuts & bolts, 6 months after a restoration!
I know this comment is a while after you posted it, but I'm a new subscriber, going back to try and catch up. Great job on the video and the Model A/Mitchell installation! I hope you are doing well, Paul! Thanks for the video and have a fantastic week. Take care!
Hi Paul, Nice video, thanks. Which ratio did you get for the Coupe? And, what’s the covering on the steering wheel that keeps the soy black off your hands on a humid morning? Keep your videos coming! Hun
what i like about you is you are a purist. you improve the car to make it safer and more driveable. too many model a cars were butchered with big v8 engines. do model a cars ever vapor lock. my fathers 50 ford would vapor lock.
Paul, I looked at the Mitchell web page for Model A overdrives and they didn't have any pricing info. What would a person have to pay for one of these. I'm not that close to a Model A purchase but I enjoy looking and comparing prices and value of individual cars. It is helpful to know what additional investment might be needed if one of these vehicles didn't have an overdrive. Thanks so much. I really enjoy watching and learning from your videos.
Sounds like the clutch pedal is catching on the floorboard metal pedal plate every time you depress the clutch. Mine started doing that while on a tour. It drove me NUTS until we got to a rest area. BTW, when I installed my Mitchell I left the spring in the car. Working by myself, it was just easier and I didn't have to raise the car a high. Which ever, both methods work.
We hadn't fully secured and aligned everything. We were in a rush to see if the OD worked! So, it probably was the pedal plate against the pedal shaft as you mentioned. Good ear!
ha ha ha, I just asked about this in another question and answer video, sorry about that. Ouch, my knees were aching watching you kneeling on that Concrete
Kinda both. It's possible to do 65 MPH with OD without harming the motor. But, in reality, the reason for OD is to make 55 MPH a lot more comfortable and quiet.
@@ModelA It also helps here in the mountains by giving the driver another option between 2nd and 3rd gear so you don't have to climb long hills at 25 MPH. Would you agree?
Awesome video. This project is very doable. Didn’t know you could pull the driveshaft/pinion gear out the front. For me this is a game changer. Though had to split the axle tubes. Now, I want an overdrive more then ever. The big question is which car first. My first love the 30 Coupe or my always wanted and now have the 28 Tudor. Thank you again for the Videos.
@@richardt2k1 Oh, my mistake. Sorry! Didn't mean to assign gender roles! Ha ha! I'm not politically correct. I've had almost every popular body style Model A and I still prefer the tudor sedan if I could only have one Model A.
Really enjoyed the video Paul! I’ve been thinking about installing one on my 30 Tudor, this will be super helpful for when I get to install on finally.
I have a 29 four door sedan and 30 station wagon I drive them both in late spring till first snow. This overdrive will make them more drivable on today roads that were dirt when model a were made I added turn signals led lights radio and heat pp AC third row seat on my station wagon for ok m junk bronco seat belts
So by my rough math, if your top end was 45, the overdrive will get you up to 60? Obviously I don't know what the stock car was capable of. We used to use a model A transmission to run a hoist winch, so I find this very interesting.
Steve B I have really enjoyed your videos. I have ordered and plan on having the overdrive by the end of April. I do most all my work on my 30 Townsedan myself so I have watched your video a number of times so I don't miss or overlook anything. It seemed to me when you mark the nut on the pinion assembly you used the inside keyway on the assembly. When you reassembled you used the keyway on the outside of housing to set your the nut. I did I see it wrong? I do have a ?. Why can't the whole the pinion assemble be knocked off the shaft as an assembly? This way the preload is not disturbed. Thanks Steve
It was marked to the outside keyway both times. It was just an optical illusion. You have to disturb the preload to pull the pinion race from the banjo anyway. Thanks!!
@@ModelA thanks for getting back to me. It is good to know about the preload. I was planning on trying to pull the pinion assembly in one piece. It does sound like good idea. Steve Barnacle
If you have a way to pull it as one assembly, yes. But I only have the pinion puller from Mitchell, so I have to remove the upper nuts and use one to hold the plate of the puller.
@@ModelA I was planning sliding the Mitchell puller plate down the drive shaft and putting it on top of the assembly. Then putting on a 1.125 split collar just above the plate and tighten it to the shaft. Then use the plate to push against the split collar (instead of the assembly nut) to pull the assembling out of bingo. What do you think? Thanks Steven Barnacle
Have you every used any medium duty Thread locking compound on bolts or nuts on some of the components around the model A cars? It helps prevent thread Rust and helps keep thing's tight and can always be removed easily. I would still Use safety wire where Indicated.. Tight
Hi Paul Between me and my parents we have have four A's. I'm am doing my first brake job on one of them and I am re lining the shoes. So I have a concern someone drill out the rivet to big on the previous lining! What is the rivet hole size in the shoe suppose to be?? My are at 11/64 and the rivet is little over 9/64 and when I use a brake foot rivet press the rivet looks to press though the shoe instead of lay over. This is an old art an have no one to look up to ask how tight the rivet should be in the shoe.
Hi Paul, another great video. I'll be installing a Mitchell Synchro gearbox and overdrive in the next few months and this will greatly assist on the overdrive. Do you plan to do a similar video on a Mitchell gearbox install? Lastly, where do you purchase the pinion drive spanners? Thanks and keep the videos coming. Kind Regards Bill
Swapping a transmission will probably be a video eventually. The spanners are sold by all the popular Model A parts suppliers. Best of luck on the new trans!
Great video. Thanks for all your hard work.
These excellent videos should convince existing Model A owners to drive their vehicles more.
Also, it demonstrates that Model A's are still very drivable in 2021.
Not being real familiar with Overdrive, I found the following:
Per Wikipedia, generally speaking, overdrive is the highest gear in the transmission or in an Overdrive System.
Overdrive System allows the engine to operate at a lower RPM for a given road speed like cruising at 45 mph.
This allows the vehicle to achieve better fuel efficiency, and often quieter operation on the highway.
Do you also use Overdrive for ascending hills in the Model A?
Do you disengage it when descending a hill?
Thank you for your kind words! Overdrive is useful for some hills, but not all. In the video (link in description) where I show how to use the overdrive, I go over some of that and show how.
Paul, your videos make me want to be a Model A owner.
Excellent. Mission accomplished! Making These Model A videos makes me want to be a Model A seller. Ha ha!
@@ModelA Maybe it was your videos that finally made me become a Model A owner again. I have to blame someone and my kids threaten to put me in a nursing home if I keep blaming them for everything.
@@ModelA
Wow I'd love to buy one .
Preferably something at a low price , maybe something I could restore .
Thank you. I'm in sunny California
I'm not a boomer and I'm watching this great content.
Thanks, Mike!
I have already installed a Mitchell overdrive, but you did a great video. I loved how they added the mesh coverings over the shafts for shipping. Just the packing of the product shows how much they care about the customer.
Their stuff is top notch for sure.
Well done Paul! Your efforts bring back memories of the mid 50's when my buddy an I "tom catted" in a 5 window coup. We did what boys did and enjoyed the times. My buddy has passed, but I am still around and have my memories. I certainly have times when I would like to have a 5 window coup.
What is stopping you from picking up a coupe? Go for it!
Paul, you are to be commended, appreciated and respected for tutorial video works.
Thank you John! Very kind of you.
@@ModelA
This is unbelievable! These cars are unbelievable !
By the way my daily driver is a 97 Mitsubishi montero suv
Relatively old compared to most people with 2020 cars.
I have a few project cars which are now drivable.
I'm a big car buff. And I know about restoration, and a little about everything.
One of your best videos yet! Thank you for showing every step - it helps me think I could actually do the installation myself.
Thank you! And good luck when you go for it.
What is really funny is I love watching you work. Makes me want to own a model A so that I could actually fix it myself instead of one of the modern computer cars.
Thanks!!
hey Paul, watching this channel has caused me to fall in love with these A's and start working on my grandfathers Model A that was left in a barn for about 40 years, keep up the awesome videos!
Excellent! Get that A on the road again. Thank you!
Hey Jordan, enjoy the way you work thru a project, start to finish, no matter what your working on, everything you do is impressive, common sense and skill works every time....Ralph
I wish I would have seen this video 10 years ago...LOL I have a Mitchell in my 29 Roadster, and the Threads striped off the axle. I took the hole rear apart , and when I did that I changed the gears from 411 to 378, I used a bearing puller to pull the pinion gear off, and split the drive shaft , from the top of it to the cotter pin hole. you made that look very easy. i wish i would have done it that way. When called Sue Mitchell, and told her I needed a driveshaft, she said she never heard of one cracking like mine did ! Thanks
I have seen them split like yours did a few times. That's why I never use a puller to get the pinion carrier assembly off. That nut on the end protects the end of the shaft and the treads, and using the BANG is the best way to remove a tapered fit anything.
Good video Paul very well explained. Cheers Ian Langley New Zealand proud owner of a 1966 Ford Mustang. I love the older generation cars. so simple and uncomplicated to work on.
Man 26% will make a big difference! Reminds me of the Borg Warner "4+3" O.D. unit on the C4 corvettes. It was meant to be used as a "5th gear" but it worked in 2nd-4th gear so there were many gear splitting possibilities. Really cool idea.
Yes!
“Learn by doing” that’s how I came to buy my ‘31 standard rumble seat coup ( thorn brown!). It had a bad throw out bearing. I was reassured “ there’s nothing to it” and that as t how came to know my model “A” I used a floor jack and my son’s skateboard. Thank you. Your video had all of the key details. Thank you!.
That's the best way to learn! Good work, man.
Interesting story about finding this Model A in a Barn. Very nice.
Almost the same way you found Joe.
This has very quickly become one of my favorite channels. I'm a dodge guy and would love to get my hands on a series 124/6/8. Seeing up close looks at these fords is really interesting. And man are these ones nice.
You're an honorary Model A guy now! Dodge is close enough.
@@ModelA The Dodge brothers made a lot of Model T parts before they becme Dodge builders.
I stumbled onto a 31 model A last July when a grandkid was emptying his grandpa's house contents mostly into a dumpster, and he had a model A with froze up engine and brakes sitting in the carport ! Last time it ran was 1997, and apparently someone pushed on the brake pedal, and locked the brake shoes onto the drums, so the grandson didn't have much hope for it, and needed it out of there !! Was in the right spot at the right time, Aired up the tires and drug it on my friends trailer with a winch and now it is sitting in my driveway, waiting for me to get everything loose again !! I never had an A Ford before, but doesn't look right to me ? Title says it is a 31 convertible, but the wheels are not wire, and it has hydraulic brakes with STUCK master cylinder and wheel cylinders, Engine was stuck too, but my friend broke that loose with a 12 volt assist ! Did 31's have hydraulic brakes, or was that added along the way ?? The wheels have Pontiac hub caps on them, and the left of the steering column doesn't have advance / retard lever, so do I have a Model A, or just a pile of random parts, the grandpa put together ? I saw it on the streets around town in 96 or 97, and always wanted a ride in it, but never got the chance, so now I have my chance now !!! The grandpa was a carpenter, so it has homemade plywood on it with old countertop metal trim, but looks cool to me with tan colored plywood, with root beer colored fenders !! The tires have held air all winter after airing them up last fall, so I'm excited to get whatever it is I have running ! Thanks for t your videos, it has helped my enthusiasm ! I told the grandson I would give him a ride if I can get it going ! THANKS for your AWESOME videos, I'm learning a lot, and want to drive it back and forth to the Post Office this summer !! Matt, your # 1 FAN
Love your attitude Doug(just kidding). I don't know Doug. My wife and I have collected model A's for years. Nothing like yours or others. We have eight double AA's converted in tractors by veterans coming home with land but no tractors. There where just laying around in the pucker brush i would guess. Most have two transmission's and a few with underdrive's to gear them down. Chain them up and go farming. I've taken a few to Minnesota tractor shows ten years ago,and was the only one there and now there's maybe twenty every year. Drug them out of the back of the shed or under the shad tree. Very positive response 👍. Brian and Debi. Mine are always looking for the ditch if over 40 mph.
Hahaha!! Thanks, Brian!
@Paul - Your knowledge of the rear axle and its components is outstanding! Excellent tutorial video. And your injected humor throughout the videos really makes for a great show!
Thank you!
Thanks again Paul . I have a hard time finding a shop to work on my 29 Fordor or my 31 coupe. They want me to leave them outside their shop till they can get to them and I’m not going to do that so I just figure it out myself and fix it at home and your videos help. Keep them coming . 👍👍
That's a bummer. Where are you?
@@ModelA 40 Miles south of Atlanta
I can't think of many sights and soudns as relaxing as someone who knows what they're doing, driving a model A. Shifting combined with the exhaust note and transmission whine are make for an intoxicating mix of mechanical ballet and music. Thanks for the great video, Paul! I'm still amazed at how much aftermarket support there is for a Model A.
Yes, indeed! The Model A does have what I believe the most aftermarket support of any automobile its age. Just amazing! Now, if I could get some of those vendors to sponsor the channel... Imagine all the helpful videos that could be made...
Remember, you can build a '57 Chevy with affter market parts.
Very sweet sounding A' s you have. It is so educational watching you Paul.
Thank you kindly!
Paul terrific content, thoroughly enjoyed...my dad had a 31, we used to ride on the beach in NJ with it when I was a kid, special tires/wheels he would swap out! (I'm 60) My dad said it was the only regret in his life was selling his 31 Model A!!
It's great that you concentrate on the Model A's mechanicals and tolerances.
While restoring the upholstery, body, and paint is very important and visible, the mechanics of the brakes, steering, etc., make for a reliable and fun car or truck.
We owned a beautifully painted Model A that didn't run well due to corrosion in the gas tank and didn't stop well because the brake system wasn't restored.
It wasn't fun to drive an unreliable Model A.
Right. A lot of people who have criticism for the way a Model A drives or steers or brakes and basing their opinion on very poorly maintained or "restored" examples. Either that or they have no experience at all and make assumptions.
Paul watched the video from beginning to end, I’ll tell you if I owned a Model A and had to do that all myself, I think I would live without a overdrive. Great job.
Good point. However, if you are in a club and do it at a club tech seminar, then it is a lot easier and more fun!
Good one Paul;love the vid and love the A miodel!!!!
One little thing I noted: as you adjust the preload on the bearings at 22:00 .... normally you allow for a tiny bit of play when adjusting the preload with the adjustment nut because when you tighten the locknut on top of it the adjustment nut will be pushed forward because the nuts have some play on the thread!!!!.... I mosttimes tighten the adjustment nut than untighten until play can be felt and than untighten it another 30 degrees or so..... you can than feel a bit of play.... after you tightened the lock nut this play will be gone...
This sort of lay out is quite common on rearaxle wheelbearings of heavier trucks.
I am eager to buy a Model A myself as there is a Canadian ‘28 A model for sale nearby...
Greetings,Henk,Netherlands.
Paul uses a fixed box end wrench as a breakover, then after the nuts are loosened, uses his ratcheting box-end. Great tool management for long life of the tools!
Yes! Good eye.
Thanks for the fun videos Paul! I drove a Tudor sedan in high school and college and now I’m watching for the right Model A to come along...
Here’s a polite suggestion, run your mic cable down your pant leg for a neater look.
Thanks Jay. I never try to hide the mic wire, just keep it out of the way. Sometimes I use the wireless, but it has dropouts now and then so not reliable. Perhaps it's time to take it up a notch and to more professional? NAH!!! I'm just a luddite with an iphone and no ego, man. Mic wire and all.
Oh, I'm a firm believer in tech manuals. The engineers that designed the (whatever) knew a lot more about it than I do! Using the specific torque values save trouble down the road. Obviously, some items are okay within a very broad range, but critical fasteners? Thanks Paul, I'll get to All of your videos, just gimme time!
I had better get to work making more!
Thanks Paul - this is definitely on my project list. If I knew you were looking for a car I would have gladly loaned you my Model A. Always well done videos.
Nice to see and enjoy … added a Michell 26% to my 1939 Ford pickup truck last year.
Very cool!
hi Paul, this is Albert from Vienna, Austria, I am owning a 1929 Roadster Pickup (original from Iowa), 1929 Phaeton full restoration (original from Uruguay and bought in Orlando as a total wreck) and a 1930 RHD Fodor Town Sedan de Lux with full leather and sliding panorama roof assembled in UK. They breed hahaha
That's true! Good work, mate!!
Videos always enjoyable to the average Model A Owner ,I always learn something new. thanks Paul
That was very interesting I wish I could afford a Ford Model A. I live in the UK, when I was 16 I was caught driving a Ford poplar I bought for £3 with the big ends knocking that's how I learnt to drive I'm 68 now and I've always loved the old style cars with running boards and separate headlights, beautiful.
There is nothing like the sound of a Model A engine, Paul you have
got that installation to such an art form, you may need to change your
name to Mitchell. Bet you are glad of Henrys "steel to the wheel" brakes,
saves a lot of messing around with bleeding.
Great outcome.
Oh yes! Ha ha! This is probably the 50th Mitchell installation I've done or helped do.
Paul, I totally agree with all the other comments “Your best video yet!”
I am the current custodian of a ’31 Vicky. It is my understanding that installation of the Mitchell o/d is different due to the flat floor in the back seat.
Can you please comment?
Thanks!
Bill
Yes. You just order the overdrive specifically made for the Victoria. The gearbox is located in a different spot along the torque tube. Simple!
Good morning Paul,
My goodness we have really enjoyed you well explained and good work installation. Hmmmm, as soon I finalize my restoration of my A, I might consider this Mitchell Overdrive, need to see the your video of how to use this overdrive, as here in Curaçaose don’t have highways like in the US, but its a nice option to have on the car. Thanks again Paul, for your top quality and well covered you tube footages. Regards The Jacobs.
Glad you enjoyed it, Mr. Jacobs!
I'm reviewing this video because I now have a Model A and an overdrive to go with it. Thanks for this excellent video Paul. Now... when to put it in?
I would put it in before the next tour, if it were me.
Great video Pal! Had the Mitchel installed in my 30 Coupe by Tom in Westminster Ca. and would like to put one in my Fordor in Tulsa (by Moi') First of all, yes, I really enjoy the OD! Just terrific and really adds to my daily driving. Looking forward to some day seeing my 30 Fordor driving the same. Both are daily drivers from coffee shop trips to 50 + mile days and 200 mile + weeks. NICE WORK.....THANKS! (OCFMAC)
Dang! This was really great to see, since we just got 5 inches of snow so our 31 coupe is in hibernation. Of course now I just have Mitchel Overdrive on my brain...Thanks Paul always fantastic!
We got a little dusting of snow, but it didn't stick.
Steve, you better hurry and order one. The snow might be gone the time you get it! Took 15 weeks to get mine, but well worth the wait!!
Enjoyed watching you install the overdrive, I should have a model A I like to drive about 35 to 45 mph of course I'm 70 years old and live in the country, its my job to slow people down or so my kids say thats what I must think.
Yes, it is! We're all depending on you to keep traffic slow so we don't get run over, Ken!! Ha ha!
Great photography and a well thought out video. Your videos get exponentially better every time.
Thank you Doug! I am trying very hard to improve.
Great vid Paul! I never realized how much faster the job goes when it’s got a camera going! No wonder my jobs take so much longer!!😁 Keep em coming! God bless, Steve A.
Ha ha! Then how come this 6 to 8 hour job took 3 days??? Dang! Setting up each shot, reshooting stuff, etc. takes a LOT longer than just doing the job. Then, there's 3 days of editing....
Hi Paul Big Big thank you I did not know about the snap ring inside the torque tube and I just got done watching your overdrive video it is a big help to me thanks and God bless
Been a Subscriber to your channel for 4 year's now @Paul, I've always been a nut when it comes to old cars that were simpler and beautiful ❤.
From all the classics I've seen an enjoy the model a ford is my personal favorite, with 1957 chevy bel air being my 2nd favorite 😊.
Considering I'm a tall guy, standing at 6'7" age 23, I'm lookin to get a tudor sedan, an adjusting the seats to help with comfort.
Not to mention I'll definitely put in a overdrive for driving long distance 😉.
So with my long speech done, you've wone me over an I'll be a model 'A' fan for the rest of my life ❤ so thank you Paul an two your lovely wife 'Model T'.
Greetings to you from the state of Kansas 🌻~
P.S. I'm also a sub to your wife's channel two 😉.
Shout out to you!! My adopted dad is from Wichita. Tudor is a great choice! Not just because it will fit you better, but because they are the most versatile too.
Indeed 😊, hopefully one day we might bump into each other during a modal a festival 😉.
Also nice that your adopted dad lives in witchta, my aunt lives there as well ❤.
One day I'll own one it's my dream car this car kicked it all off beautiful piece of history such a beautiful car they just shout America
Excellent video explaining the installation, and benefits of the Mitchell overdrive. Thank you for taking the time to produce this wonderful video!
Very welcome Joe!
Great video Paul, sure could have used it years ago when we installed a Mitchell Overdrive. It's a great product for your Model A and well worth the price. Thank your again for your Videos that I use as refresher courses.
Thank you, Pete!
Great detailed installation of the overdrive. However, this installation makes assembling a sofa from Ikea look simple in comparison. Owning a Model A isn't for the mechanically faint-hearted! I am impressed! Your mechanical skills remind me of my granddad's, who happened to also own a Model A in the 1930s, which he drove 30 miles daily for many years.
Yes, you are right
Please buy another Model A fix it up and then I will buy from you. lol A Victoria would be nice. I had a Mitchell overdrive in my 1930 six window fordor. Overdrive makes all the difference. Loved this video. When I bought mine it already had it installed. Nice to see what it took to install one. Really like your videos.
Ha!! Well, truth be told... I have two coupes in the works right now. so, maybe...
Paul, you must be way more less of a klutz than I am. There is no way I would have been wrenching (especially with parts big enough to span the terminals) so close to the battery without taking precautions. If I can screw it up, I will! Great video and very informative.
I'm an electrical engineer in my real job and I work with very high voltage broadcast equipment. So in my world, 6 volts isn't even an issue. If it sparks, it won't be much. Truthfully, I wasn't as close to the terminals as it looked.
@@ModelA The Model A's are more fun! I was an elevator technician and an elevator contractor as well as an elevator inspector and an electrician. Had a friend that owned Tower Elevator and a few times I worked with him on broadcaster tower elevators. You better not be afraid of heights. Those are deadly insane to work on.
Very informative.Thank you for your time and effort. Hoping to buy a Model A someday. Gotta keep 'em running!
Great tutorial Paul! Thanks for showing how to install the OD. I would think a lot of this applies to my '38. ~Pat
Should be useful for your 38 as well. Thank you!
nice video, I don't know how you stay so clean while working on the car. As soon as grease is involved I ruin a pair of pants.
I have several pants and many shirts all exactly the same. You witnessed many wardrobe changes!
I just watched this for the 3rd 4th time.
Mo.A overdrive mitchel
26% doesn't seem to be very much. 36%
I would say is better
Wish is alittle more
Than .7to1.0.
I used to work on
Lincoln's Mercury's
And Chevrolet products manual
And automatic
Transmissions
The Corvette had a 6
Speed man. With
5th and 6th were
Abt .7to1 and .5to1
4th speed in the automatic was .7to1
Wich is abt 30%
Over the top.
Around 1985 86 you
Could get a the corvette with a
Dougnash 4 on the floor with a 2speed
Auto integrated behind it. The speed were
Direct and overdrive
Electrically shifted
With a button on the
Side of the shifter
Was very meticulous to overhaul. And the shift linkages were a hassle to adjust. The Ford Model A looks very simple nicely done Paul. I worked on many Ford manuals and automatics as well.
Live long Paul.
Dwight.
This video I will use when I do my first, thank you Paul.
Another one for the books. Great job
If I could have hit the Like Button 100 times I would have! Excellent video Paul ! And it was very nice seeing the Mrs. after she adjusted the brake rods! I have to say that you're really inspiring me to buy a Model A. And don't think I missed your beautiful Tudor in the background.
Do you think it was easier leaving the seat in the car or would you advise removing it?
Do you recall if torque figures were included with the Mitchell kit?
Do you plan to install a Mitchell EZ-Check Oil Kit?
I see your buddy has the same battery(s) that I put in my 1948 Chrysler Windsor. I was concerned about a possible generator failure away from home at night time so I installed two of those Optima's wired in Parallel.
Did you remember to put me on the list should you decide to sell your Tudor?
Leaving the seat in and covering it gives me something to lean on.
No torque figures included. It's all you.
No, not going to install the EZ oil check gizmo.
I switched to Optima batteries in all my Model As.
You want my tudor sedan, huh? You're gonna need a BIG checkbook!
@@ModelA I wondered if the seat might be left in to lean on. Thanks.
I just learned about the EZ Oil Check thing. I asked you because Mitchell Manufacturing states common leakage into the torque tube while being unknown to the owner.
I've never regretted buying my Optima batteries.
I think your Tudor fits the Model A that I would want--and I trust you. My checkbook is handsome.
Thanks for replying Paul.
I love your new open, especially with the Batman PJ's!!!!!
Ha ha! Thanks man. Those are all clips from my videos. The Batman PJ's make two appearances. One ended up on the cutting room floor, the other is in a video.
Looks like he was dressed to shop at Walmart.
Like I'v said before
You are a fantastic
Service tech. Mechanic
Paul.
Thank you, my brother!
Great job 👏 Paul you sure know your model A's. Take care, Mike
Thanks Mike!
Very good work , I liked the you using jack stands safety first. Your video was excellent, keep up the good work the old cars all had class. Tks 👍👍👍 🍁 Canada
Metallic cinder blocks for safety!
As I was looking at the very large leaf spring I was wondering if there are suspension upgrades for a Model A? And excellent job on the installation and I really enjoyed watching the video.
"Upgrades"? I have seen lots of hot rodders do upgrades that seem to change various aspects of the ride, but none ever make it better. Just different. Best upgrade you can make is rebuilding your shock absorbers and then setting them all exactly the same. What a difference that makes!
Paul you do an excellent job, on your Model A's, like your channel, very interesting review and drives on the various types of Model A's. I like them all . Take care, Paul and wife also, keep up the good work, on the Model A hobby! Kevin Phoenix
Thanks Kevin!
sweet I can't wait until I get to do mine a 29 A Tudor seems to take some time but very easy to do, love it
You can do it!
I love your channel. I have been seriously thinking about putting that overdrive in mine. I already have there updated transmission in mine currently .
love the content dude. found your channel while lookinhg up tips on buying old model A's.
Welcome aboard!
I'm going to pull out the rear end tomorrow
I need to do some under body work
I suggest you use blue Loctite on any bolt, don’t have to worry about coming loose
Today's victim... ehh... patient! 0:46 I had to stop the video. Laughing, I was missing out on what you were teaching.
Good one Paul!!!
I made a really nice pinion puller. It also presses them in and installs the center bearing in V8 cars.
Cool! Any video of it?
I'll have to make one for you.
Now I know you have an Air compressor but to see this done using basic hand tools for the everyday home enthusiast was a treat. So basically this is a one day job, interesting. Does Mitchell offer different options for their overdrive gearing and if so, which do you think is best. Seems to me you need two more Model A's a coupe and a pickup...oops and a roadster... oops and a sport coupe, lol. Can't never have too many, lol. Job well done including a great detailed video... Thank you.
They offer 26% and 33%. I think 33 is too much.
Nice video Paul, I'm getting ready to break down my diff. and I picked up a thing or two. Thanks! Keep them coming.
Thanks, will do!
Fantastic video Paul, thank you.
Thank YOU!
Awesome
Video Paul can we install a Mitchell overdrive on a right hand drive.1931 coupe
Yes. You do have to order it that way so you get the proper parts.
The shifter indexing is just like that of my motorcycles. Splines that allow some degree of adjustability.
Yes!
Great video but you should have installed the Mitchell Synchro gearbox at the same time. Gearing is 15% higher & matches perfectly with the Overdrive unit. I own a '31 Model A Slant 160B Show Car here in Australia, a multi award winner & driveability has improved 100%. Trouble is now, it goes so fast, the mechanical brakes have trouble slowing it down but set up properly, with braking from the rear first, it now stops reasonably well.
I have the Mitchell transmission in one of my Model A's. Only 1st and 2nd gears are 15% higher (each is an individual option, or opt for both). Since 3rd gear is straight through, it is not 15% higher. Anyway, not everyone wants or needs the synchro transmission. In fact, I kinda prefer the stock transmission. Especially considering the price tag of the Mitchell transmission.
@@ModelA Fact is Paul, these old cars were never designed to drive at more than 60kph ( 35mph) & anything that makes them safer to drive in todays traffic conditions, has to be an advantage. I had my doubts about how good the Mitchell stuff was, until my local importer convinced me the cost wasn't an issue when it came to how good it made the Model A drive & he was dead right. I defy any Model A owner to drive a synchro car & then not say the mod was well worth the dollars. Simply put, if Henry Ford could have done it, he would have but the extra cost of Synchronization & Overdrive units would have killed sales with the extra cost!
Perhaps Henry Ford would have installed synchro transmission sooner, I agree. Everything else, I disagree. The Model A could do 65 MPH right out of the factory with 45-50 being pretty normal cruising speed on the rare flat road. A synchro transmission doesn't make it "safer", only slightly more convenient for those who struggle with the stock transmission. For those of us with many thousands of miles driving Model A's in their stock form, shifting a stock trans is second nature. So, to answer your comment, "I defy any Model A owner to drive a synchro car & then not say the mod was well worth the dollars", I am here to tell you that I disagree. I have a Mitchell synchronized transmission in just one of my Model A's, and the decision to keep all my others stock is not for financial reasons. It's because I prefer them that way. Same from some of my fellow club members. Yes, there are a few who prefer the synchro trans. I'm not at all saying nobody does, just that your assumption is incorrect. Not all prefer it.
@@ModelA Must be a different attitude to driving here in Australia Paul but my importer is doing these conversions every week because owners absolutely prefer to spend the dough to improve the ease at which these cars can be driven, especially around town where changing down at roundabouts is a real pain. I've been double clutching for many of my 71 years & it one component in my car that was absolutely annoying, especially given the synchro is build INSIDE the old casing......brilliant. Mitchell make these modifications because they're popular & the demand in the US & around the world is apparent. BTW, the Mitchell Overdrive made two fundamental mistakes & if Sue Mitchell was alive today, I'd tell her. Using silicon sealant when joining the half shafts to the overdrive unit & using black 7/8" cap screws to also join the same components instead of cad plated items. Nothing looks worse than rusty nuts & bolts, 6 months after a restoration!
Great instructional video Paul! Just ordered one from Steve and will be installing it in our 1928 Tudor. ;) Cheers!
Excellent! Tell Steve I said "hi" when you talk to him next, please!
@@ModelA will do ;)
I know this comment is a while after you posted it, but I'm a new subscriber, going back to try and catch up. Great job on the video and the Model A/Mitchell installation! I hope you are doing well, Paul! Thanks for the video and have a fantastic week. Take care!
Thanks for subbing, Dan!
@@ModelA Not a problem, it's just simply good content.
Great, informative how-to video. Makes me want to get a Model A. Thanks!
Watch out... They can be addictive. And they attract ladies.
Hi Paul,
Nice video, thanks. Which ratio did you get for the Coupe? And, what’s the covering on the steering wheel that keeps the soy black off your hands on a humid morning? Keep your videos coming!
Hun
26%. The steering wheel cover makes the steering wheel thicker so people with arthritis can drive it easier.
what i like about you is you are a purist. you improve the car to make it safer and more driveable. too many model a cars were butchered with big v8 engines. do model a cars ever vapor lock. my fathers 50 ford would vapor lock.
Thanks Vincent! They can, but it is rare. Figured out that if you mix some Marvel mystery oil in the gas in summertime, it stops that from happening.
Paul, I looked at the Mitchell web page for Model A overdrives and they didn't have any pricing info. What would a person have to pay for one of these. I'm not that close to a Model A purchase but I enjoy looking and comparing prices and value of individual cars. It is helpful to know what additional investment might be needed if one of these vehicles didn't have an overdrive. Thanks so much. I really enjoy watching and learning from your videos.
All the Model A parts suppliers sell them, or you can buy from Mitchell direct. They are running around twenty-five hundred. Merry CHRISTmas!!
@@ModelA Thanks Paul, Merry Christmas to you!
Sounds like the clutch pedal is catching on the floorboard metal pedal plate every time you depress the clutch. Mine started doing that while on a tour. It drove me NUTS until we got to a rest area.
BTW, when I installed my Mitchell I left the spring in the car. Working by myself, it was just easier and I didn't have to raise the car a high. Which ever, both methods work.
We hadn't fully secured and aligned everything. We were in a rush to see if the OD worked! So, it probably was the pedal plate against the pedal shaft as you mentioned. Good ear!
ha ha ha, I just asked about this in another question and answer video, sorry about that. Ouch, my knees were aching watching you kneeling on that Concrete
Well Done Paul I am envious of your vehicles.
Please do not be envious.. These are easily obtainable cars.
@@ModelA I live in Australia :)
I see several for sale in Australia right now
Great video on the install! About how many more MPH can one expect from the overdrive? Or is it more about lowering RPM ?
Kinda both. It's possible to do 65 MPH with OD without harming the motor. But, in reality, the reason for OD is to make 55 MPH a lot more comfortable and quiet.
@@ModelA It also helps here in the mountains by giving the driver another option between 2nd and 3rd gear so you don't have to climb long hills at 25 MPH. Would you agree?
Awesome video. This project is very doable. Didn’t know you could pull the driveshaft/pinion gear out the front. For me this is a game changer. Though had to split the axle tubes. Now, I want an overdrive more then ever. The big question is which car first. My first love the 30 Coupe or my always wanted and now have the 28 Tudor. Thank you again for the Videos.
Coupes are cute. Tudors are more versatile.
@@ModelA
Cute. Lol. It’s a he. That Guy by name is the coupe and This Guy by name is the Tudor.
That Guy and This Guy. 😀
@@richardt2k1 Oh, my mistake. Sorry! Didn't mean to assign gender roles! Ha ha! I'm not politically correct. I've had almost every popular body style Model A and I still prefer the tudor sedan if I could only have one Model A.
@@ModelA wanted a Tudor ever since high school finally got me one 😁
@@richardt2k1 Good!
in 1960 I was 15 years old on the farm. we would say. oily to bed and oily to rise is the fate of a man when a used car he buys.
Really enjoyed the video Paul! I’ve been thinking about installing one on my 30 Tudor, this will be super helpful for when I get to install on finally.
Nice!
Guess after you've put about ten of these things in the eleventh one is easy peezy. Made it look near painless.
Thanks Murray! This is my 40-something-ith.
They make them in Healdsburg, about 15 miles from here.
WOW! WHAT A JOB. I FEEL SORRY FOR THE PERSON WITHOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE TO TRY TO DO THIS.
I have a 29 four door sedan and 30 station wagon I drive them both in late spring till first snow. This overdrive will make them more drivable on today roads that were dirt when model a were made I added turn signals led lights radio and heat pp AC third row seat on my station wagon for ok m junk bronco seat belts
Sounds neat!
So by my rough math, if your top end was 45, the overdrive will get you up to 60? Obviously I don't know what the stock car was capable of. We used to use a model A transmission to run a hoist winch, so I find this very interesting.
Stock Model A is good for 65 tops, 50 MPH is a comfortable cruising speed.
Your knowledge is very helpful and greatly appreciated
Thanks Greg!
Steve B
I have really enjoyed your videos. I have ordered and plan on having the overdrive by the end of April. I do most all my work on my 30 Townsedan myself so I have watched your video a number of times so I don't miss or overlook anything. It seemed to me when you mark the nut on the pinion assembly you used the inside keyway on the assembly. When you reassembled you used the keyway on the outside of housing to set your the nut. I did I see it wrong?
I do have a ?. Why can't the whole the pinion assemble be knocked off the shaft as an assembly? This way the preload is not disturbed.
Thanks Steve
It was marked to the outside keyway both times. It was just an optical illusion. You have to disturb the preload to pull the pinion race from the banjo anyway. Thanks!!
@@ModelA thanks for getting back to me. It is good to know about the preload. I was planning on trying to pull the pinion assembly in one piece. It does sound like good idea.
Steve Barnacle
If you have a way to pull it as one assembly, yes. But I only have the pinion puller from Mitchell, so I have to remove the upper nuts and use one to hold the plate of the puller.
@@ModelA I was planning sliding the Mitchell puller plate down the drive shaft and putting it on top of the assembly. Then putting on a 1.125 split collar just above the plate and tighten it to the shaft. Then use the plate to push against the split collar (instead of the assembly nut) to pull the assembling out of bingo. What do you think?
Thanks Steven Barnacle
Have you every used any medium duty
Thread locking compound on bolts or nuts on some of the components around the model A cars?
It helps prevent thread
Rust and helps keep thing's tight and can always be removed easily. I would still
Use safety wire where
Indicated..
Tight
I use it only where needed.
Hi Paul
Between me and my parents we have have four A's. I'm am doing my first brake job on one of them and I am re lining the shoes. So I have a concern someone drill out the rivet to big on the previous lining! What is the rivet hole size in the shoe suppose to be?? My are at 11/64 and the rivet is little over 9/64 and when I use a brake foot rivet press the rivet looks to press though the shoe instead of lay over. This is an old art an have no one to look up to ask how tight the rivet should be in the shoe.
Hi Paul, another great video.
I'll be installing a Mitchell Synchro gearbox and overdrive in the next few months and this will greatly assist on the overdrive.
Do you plan to do a similar video on a Mitchell gearbox install?
Lastly, where do you purchase the pinion drive spanners?
Thanks and keep the videos coming.
Kind Regards
Bill
Swapping a transmission will probably be a video eventually. The spanners are sold by all the popular Model A parts suppliers. Best of luck on the new trans!
1000 times better than your last mitchell tranny install ,, ballpark cost??? parts and labor?