Farmall A Engine Rebuilding

1. I have read the add for the Tisco kits. Have any of you bought these kits and have you been satisfied with them ?

2. The kits are availale with stepped pistons. If the engine now has flat pistons can you switch to stepped pistons and if so can you expect any real difference in performance. Does any additional work need to be done to the head / valves to accomodate the stepped pistons.

3. Last question. Have any of you had your engines balanced and did you notice any real improvement. I spoke to a local shop today that has been aroud a long time with a great reputation. The cost is around $ 250 for a 4 cylinder gas engine. The fellow told me don't expect any real gain in H.P. but the engine will definitly run smoother. I relize that a Farmall A isn't exactly a big block racing engine but I plan on keeping this tractor for a long time and really want to do right. Thanks guys for your help.

2. The head on the A was built to accomodate all variations of pistons and needs no alteration, unless it has been shaved flat too many times.

3. My reading showed that balancing an A engine wasn't worth it, unless you have the money.

My kit is 3 1/8, high compression pistons and no modification to the head is required. The raised top on the piston is shaped to fit the head, as long as you get them in facing the right way.

Fire Crater is the IH brand of higher compression pistons, and I know that they are still available from a Case/IH dealer. If you are worried about proper fit, you could go with them as they are factory official replacments.

A Farmall A already runs nice and smoothly with a stock crank. Balancing a 1500 RPM engine seems like a waste of time and money to me.