Starting a Model A Ford isn't as simple as in a modern automobile and can be a struggle for a novice. This procedure will help the novice. One must recognize that there were variations in even original Model A Fords. For example, the gas shut off valve was moved from under the dash to under the hood in 1931.
Starting Procedure
- Engage emergency brake by pulling back on it.
- Push lever left of steering wheel (Spark Control) all the way up (Retard)
- Pull lever right of the steering (Hand Throttle) half way down
- Turn Gas Valve under dash on passenger side to open (Pointing down)
- Turn Choke Control Valve (under right side of dash) full clockwise and back off 1/4 turn. If it's quite cold out, it may be better to open a full turn.
- Turn Ignition Switch on (Clockwise)
- Push in clutch and put Transmission in Neutral
- Pull Choke Control Out
- Turn engine over 3 Revolutions – Choke in on 3rd Revolution
- When Engine Starts – Push Throttle Lever (Right Lever) Up
- Put Left Lever all the way down. (Depending on how your engine is timed, 3/4 down might be better.)
- Allow Engine to Warm Up. (The accelerator pedal will need to be used to keep engine running until it warms up.)
- Turn Choke control (actually GAV) clockwise to smoothest operating condition.
- When starting an engine, which is already warmed up, omit Choke steps.
- Always put Left Lever (Spark Retard Position) all the way up when starting & then down when driving.
- Have Fun Driving!