Q. What kind of oil should be used?
A. We recommend only light high grade gas engine oil for use in the model T motor. A light grade of oil is preferred as it will naturally reach the bearings with greater ease and consequently less heat will develop on account of friction. The oil should, however, have sufficient body so that the pressure between the two bearing surfaces will not force the oil out and allow the metal to come in actual contact. Heavy and inferior oils have a tendency to carbonize quickly, also “gum up” the piston rings, valve stems and bearing. In cold weather a light grade of oil having a low cold test is absolutely essential for the proper lubrication of the car. The nearest Ford branch will advise you concerning the lubricating oil this company has found best suited for its cars, both for summer and winter weather. Graphite should not be used as a lubricant in the engine or transmission as it will have a tendency to short circuit the magneto.
Q. How often should the oil be drained from crank cases?
A. It is advisable to clean out the crank case by draining out the dirty oil when the new car has been driven four or five hundred miles; thereafter it will only be necessary to repeat this operation about every thousand miles. Remove plug underneath the flywheel casing and drain off the oil. Replace the plug and pour in a gallon of kerosene oil through the breather pipe. Turn the engine over by hand fifteen or twenty times so that the splash from the kerosene oil will thoroughly clean the engine. Remove crank case plug and drain off kerosene oil. In order to get all of the kerosene out of the depressions in the crank case the car should be run up a little incline, about the height of the ordinary street curbing. Refill with fresh oil.
Q. How often should the commutator be oiled?
A. Keeping the commutator well oiled is a matter of far greater importance than many drivers believe, and is necessary in order to have a smooth operating engine. Do not be afraid to put a little oil into the commutator every other day—at least every two hundred miles. Remember that the commutator roller revolves very rapidly, and without sufficient oil the parts soon become badly worn. When in this condition perfect contact between the roller and the four contact points is impossible, as a result the engine is apt to misfire when running at a good rate of speed.
Q. What about lubricating the differentials?
A. Do not make the mistake of putting too much grease in the differential housing. The housing should not be more than one-third full. The differential is supplied with the required amount of lubricant when the car leaves the factory. The oil plug should be removed about every 1000 miles and more grease added if necessary. If a fluid is used the level should be approximately one and one-half inches below the oil hole.
XI
CARE OF TIRES
Q. How are Ford tires removed?