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Happy New Year to all!

My first high school physics lab was to \" Find the coefficient of linear expansion of a brass rod\" I knew that things expanded when heated but to find a ratio was beyond me.

Later in the year we finally covered that subject.

Once out in the real world of mechanical work I realized the importance of that information. The ratio of expansion determines the clearances required to prevent two moving parts from seizing when heated.

Designers calculate this information into the design of a device to allow for the operation in different temperatures.

In practical terms that when doing things such as rebuilding an engine it is very important to adhere to the specifications given in the overhaul instructions. Ring gap is a good example. Serious damage will happen if the gap is not correct. Clearance may change over time.

Some can be checked on a regular basis. Spark plug and distributor are two that most people think of.

Brake clearances change with wear, when did you last check them?

Some gaps can only be checked during overhaul. Understanding the need for tolerances is important.

\"Good enough\" is not an option if you expect perfect operation of a system.

Sid Gough - Technical Editor

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It looks like winter is here again. Driving the A may not be an option. So what can you do?

With a heated garage you have the benefit of being able to do hands on work. However it may be difficult to get much work done in an unheated garage or storage building.

Alternative projects might be interesting. Researching improvements or finding the solution to a problem can be both helpful and interesting. There are a lot of resources available on line. Just remember there is a lot of misinformation out there. Don't take everything at face value. Find corroborating information.

Learning a new skill can be both interesting and useful. Even if your A is a 100 % restoration, there may be some techniques that could be handy in the future. Welding , body work, woodgraining, and pin striping are a few examples. You might not need them yourself but another club member might be very grateful for your assistance in these areas.

Over the years I have found the hobby becomes as much about people as it is about the cars. Open the hood on your car at an event and see how many people come to offer assistance. How many friends have you made through the hobby? Could your new knowledge help them get their car on the road looking beautiful?

These are just a few thoughts about overcoming \"Cabin Fever\" during the months ahead.

Sid Gough - Technical Editor

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Batteries in storage will discharge no matter the temperature. In cold storage the electrolyte in the battery can freeze (will in these current Alberta temperatures). Worse, if the battery is left in the car and freezes and splits the case it will cause serious damage.

Properly stored batteries are less likely to have problems if maintained during storage. Using a good charger, not a trickle charger, is the better way to go. There are chargers with a \"float\", \"storage\" or \"maintenance\" mode. A battery \"tender\" will cycle on and off to keep the battery at the right level without over charging.

Remember that the original Model A system is 6 volt so make sure the charger has that capability. Ensure the terminals are clean before connecting the charger. Using an electrolyte grease will reduce corrosion on the terminals.

Bring the battery into a heated area where you have access to service it as required.

Most 6 volt batteries these days are the \"low maintenance\" type. This is important as the charging is not the same as \"no maintenance\" modern batteries. Check the setting on the charger to make sure you have the correct setting.

If you leave the battery in the car, disconnect the battery cables. Using a \"quick disconnect\" makes the operation a little easier. Remember to disconnect the charger when making any changes. Use caution when charging as the battery will give off hydrogen gas so only charge in a well ventilated area.

The old story about not storing a battery on concrete is not as critical as in the past. Most batteries now have a plastic case which does not react with cement the way the early ones did. To be safe rather than sorry it would not hurt to use a piece of wood under the battery.

Hope this helps getting a quick start as soon as the weather warms up!

Sid Gough - Technical Editor

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The current weather has not been very conducive for getting the Model A on the road.

Now is the time to plan this season’s tours. This should include making sure that you have all the tools ready for a road trip. Having a separate tool box prepared can save a last minute rush to find everything you might need including a fire extinguisher and first aid kit. Are all of the tools and equipment in good condition? Now is the time to find out, not in the middle of a tour. The required extinguisher is a Class ABC which is effective on most fires. Water on gas or electrical can be very dangerous and not effective.

Most people now carry cell phones however there may be areas where a signal is not available. Having a modern vehicle on a tour could be an extra safety factor as they can travel faster if help is needed. Another good item to carry is a blanket. If there is an accident, keeping an injured person warm is important. Not all summer days are hot.

Has there been any consideration to have a warning sign on the last car in the line, ie: “Antique Auto Tour Ahead 70 kph “ ? I know everyone is prepared to allow modern traffic to pass when safe, but advance warning would explain why traffic is moving slower.

Cheer up! Only three months to go!

Sid Gough - Technical Editor

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Tech Talk

An Expansive Topic

Winter is a Time for Learning

Winter Battery Care

Tour Planning

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