Question:
My Model A is running a little rough with a lot of backfiring when you step on the accelerator. Can you give me some idea where to start looking?

Answer:
Back firing is usually caused by the condenser failing or... the points may not have sufficient gap. Make sure they are set at .018 to .020". Make sure they are not burnt. Backfiring can be caused by intermittent firing of the ignition system or very lean fuel mixture. If the car has been setting for a while, the carburetor float valve may be sticking. Clean the float valve good and set the float level. Backfiring due to intermittent ignition can be caused by a frayed wire on the bottom side of the distributor plate . . or .. by intermittent connection of the ignition switch.
1.) Check point setting first.
2.) replace condenser next. Make sure the condenser you buy is the right length, some are too short, and that it is a good quality.
3.) Check that the carburetor float valve is operating correctly.
4.) Sometimes the pop out type ignition switches get intermittent. As a last resort, replace the ignition switch/cable. Les Andrews - Technical Director

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