How Fast?
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Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 48
Likes: 0
From: Near Madison, WI
How Fast?
Took my 53 out for my first drive yesterday. Too fun.
I have never driven a car this old or slow in my life!
Here's my question.
Is the F100 with the Flat Head V8 so low on power it is normal to have a tough time getting up inclines like the on ramp to the freeway and gentle hills on country roads?
Sounds like it is running fine so I doubt I have serious engine problems. Rolls great downhill so I don't think I have brake or bearing issues either. I'm going to tune her up tonite. Plugs, rotor, cap, points, Spark plug wires, oil and lube.
Will I be off to the races when I'm done?
If this is all she'll do, that's fine. I'll enjoy her charm with delightful patience.
I have never driven a car this old or slow in my life!
Here's my question.
Is the F100 with the Flat Head V8 so low on power it is normal to have a tough time getting up inclines like the on ramp to the freeway and gentle hills on country roads?
Sounds like it is running fine so I doubt I have serious engine problems. Rolls great downhill so I don't think I have brake or bearing issues either. I'm going to tune her up tonite. Plugs, rotor, cap, points, Spark plug wires, oil and lube.
Will I be off to the races when I'm done?
If this is all she'll do, that's fine. I'll enjoy her charm with delightful patience.
More Turbo
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 561
Likes: 67
From: Sandpoint, in north Idaho
I have a flat 8 and a flat 6 and drive them all the time on country hills as that is all we have here. While certainly not fast, they have no problem with them.
Checking the compression sounds like where I would start also.
Good luck!
Checking the compression sounds like where I would start also.
Good luck!
Post Fiend
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 7,641
Likes: 21
From: Poway, Ca.
Silly question, but do you have the original rear end in it? It probably shouldn't go over 55 or so if you do.
If the rear end has been replaced or re-geared to something a little higher for freeway speeds, that may make it a little harder going on the hills.
If the rear end has been replaced or re-geared to something a little higher for freeway speeds, that may make it a little harder going on the hills.
Post Fiend
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 7,641
Likes: 21
From: Poway, Ca.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,765
Likes: 547
From: Kalispell, MT
My 48 F1 with the flathead V8 runs up mountain passes out here with 3.50 rear gears. I'd say something is wrong with your setup. Look into the advice you got above.
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