How much oil does a 1930 Ford Model A engine hold?
The engine holds about 4 quarts of oil (roughly 3.8 liters) in its standard configuration; if a filter or additional oil-management components are added, capacity can rise to about 4.5–5 quarts.
Understanding the figure for a vintage workhorse
The 1930 Ford Model A uses a 200 cubic inch (about 3.3 liters) inline-four engine. When it rolled off the assembly line, the lubrication system was designed around a fixed oil capacity of approximately 4 quarts. Modern restorations and aftermarket parts guides routinely cite this baseline figure, while adding a filter or cooler can push the total toward the 4.5–5 quart range, depending on the specific upgrade.
Typical capacities by configuration
Below are the common figures mentioned by restoration guides and service bulletins, noting that exact volume depends on the specific filter type, mounting, and any extra lines or adapters installed.
- Baseline engine (no aftermarket filter): about 4 quarts (3.8 L).
- With a standard aftermarket oil filter: about 4.5–4.75 quarts (roughly 4.3–4.5 L).
- With an additional oil cooler or larger filter assembly: up to about 5 quarts (about 4.7 L) or slightly more, depending on plumbing.
Always verify oil level with the dipstick after a change and consult the specific parts list for your restoration to ensure you fill to the correct level.
Bottom line
For most original-model restorations, plan for roughly 4 quarts of oil. If you have added a filter or cooling system, expect to use up to about 5 quarts. Regular checks during operation help prevent under- or overfilling, which can affect lubrication and longevity.
Summary
In short: expect about 4 quarts of engine oil in a stock 1930 Model A, with incremental increases if you retrofit a filter or cooler. Always refer to your specific parts and manuals and follow dipstick readings for the exact fill level.
What kind of oil does a 1931 Ford Model A take?
As Wayne Russert points out there was only non-detergent, straight mineral oil with no additives available in 1928 through 1931 for the Ford Model A. Therefore, Ford Motor Company at that time, recommended the use of 20W oil in the summer, changing the oil to 40W in the winter.
How much is a 1930 Model A worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $15,870 for a 1930 Ford Model A in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1930 Ford Model A? The highest selling price of a 1930 Ford Model A at auction over the last three years was $110,000.
What size engine was in the 1930 Ford Model A?
3.3 L
The engine was a water-cooled L-head inline four with a displacement of 201 cu in (3.3 L). This engine provided 40 hp (30 kW; 41 PS). Top speed was around 65 mph (105 km/h). The Model A had a 103.5 in (2,630 mm) wheelbase with a final drive ratio of 3.77:1.
How many quarts of oil does a 1930 model take?
5-quart
The engine has a 5-quart oil capacity. The crankcase is filled through an engine fill/breather tube mounted on the engine's left side.
