Re: Performance Mods to 1939 six cylinder

Posted by Rusty O\'Toole On 2015/4/5 11:47:35

Do a compression test and check oil pressure. This will give you an idea of the condition of rings, valves, and bearings.

Oil pressure 45 PSI @ 45 MPH

Compression 90 PSI with all cylinders within 10%.

This will tell you if you need a tuneup or engine overhaul or rebuild.

There is no point in hopping up a worn engine, it will only blow up within a month or 2.

If you rebuild the engine, chances are it will take away all desire to hop up the motor, change gear ratios, or install overdrive. Especially if you have the moving parts dynamically balanced.

I know people who have had their old flathead sixes rebuilt and were surprised at the new found power and performance. Their engine was so well behaved, it seemed to be running ok with no raps or knocks even though badly worn and down on power.