Stepped vs. flat pistons

Countryboybct · Sep 5, 2009

I have to install new pistons in my Farmall B, which kit should i go with? The stepped or flat pistons, if i go for the stepped are there any others changes i would have to make?

Charles E. McNelly III · Sep 5, 2009

Go with the step pistons. They give you extra power due to the increase of compression, and no you don't have any other changes to make. Just make sure you install them correctly or they'll hit the head.
Charles

Countryboybct · Sep 5, 2009

Whats the correct way to install them? Is it different from installing regular pistons?

ScottyHOMeY · Sep 5, 2009

They will have an arrow on top indicating the front of the motor. That's it.

randy hall · Sep 5, 2009

pistons with a 'dome' shape are better yet.

Janicholson · Sep 5, 2009

The open chambers and low compression of the head needs all the compression it can get. Go with 5000 ft high altitude style domed pistons. They will not hit anything. As noted, they will have an arrow pointing forward. Regular gasoline is far higher in octane than it was in their production time. JimN

nosih · Sep 5, 2009

I guess the first thing I would ask, is:
Are you going to work/pull the tractor, or are you going to restore it, and basically just drive it around??

If you are going to restore it with no intention of pulling/working it, why do you need step head pistons???

I have restored numerous letter series tractors with the standard bore flat top pistons, and they run awesome. To me, no need to get more HP/compression on a trailer queen....

But, if you plan on working the tractor or pulling it, that is a different story, and you would want the higher compression pistons.

teddy52food · Sep 6, 2009

If you put in the high alt step head pistons, make sure the starting curcuit is in good shape if it is still 6 volts.

gene bender · Sep 6, 2009

If you need power go with the hi-dome ones but you will probably need to install as dist so it will start as the mag fires at TDC. I had to go to a dist when i put 3 1/8 hi-dome pistons and newer head it would not start with the mag intil i insalled a dist so the timing could be advanced as the mag fires on TDC. There was a directive from I-H when the Fire Craters saying a dist had to be installed when using the Fire Craters.

Stepped vs. flat pistons

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Countryboybct

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Charles E. McNelly III

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Countryboybct

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