I'll try again to send some pictures...
A Bone
- Thread starter Kinman
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Is that a Model A Ford? Forgive me, I don't know these old cars, but I'm happy to say that one was before my time!
OP
Yessir that is one altogether matching numbers 1929 Ford Model A Tudor, it came out of North Dakota, hardly any rust anywhere. Its modified with Model B wheels (17"), modified engine built to Model B (33-34) specificiations which give it a little higher lift cam and more squirt in the carb, it will roll 60mph but not for too long, 45 is comfortable all day long. It also has electronic ignition and a 6volt alternator, Ford would have done that anyway.
Outstanding!
Kevin (wood714) and I had a long time friend that worked at the music shop I did in the 80's and 90's called Roy Boy. He had a Model A (complete with aoogah horn) that he painted British Racing Green. He loved and babied that car. He was a regular at car shows and several community parades.
It's a great looking machine. Thanks for posting!
Nice ride. My dad used to tell stories of going deer hunting in my uncle's Model A. This was right after my uncle got back from WWII. I'll bet it never looked as good as yours.
If cars had stopped advancing with the Model A, mankind wouldn't have missed a thing.
Great car!
Great car!
OP
John, I've spent around 5000 miles behind the wheel of this car. They have major shortcomings, one being speeds above 50 mph comfortably, not so much speed as being able to repeatedly stop. Each brake on the early cars up til about '39 had to be adjusted seperately and quite often if you wanted to stay on top of dependable stopping. They are mechanical and require someone with a certain skill set to accomplish the adjustment. Most people drove them and compained or got used to poor stopping ability. There is little in the way of real creature comforts, hot air heaters were used and will keep the passenger warm while moving, the do little to defrost. The engines themselves are very reliable and not prone to giving problems once sorted out. Mine is lowered on 17" wheels and slightly wider tires available in 33-34, it also has gas shocks installed which really improves on the cars drivability, up on 19" rims with skinny tires and friction shocks they are a rough ride with little in the way of road holding properties.
Many people get caught in the romance of old cars forgetting that nearly everyone that owned one either knew a local mechanic or was adept at the adjustments required in the owner's manual. Much in the same way people pine away for a Harley, buy one and find out they would be much happier in a convertible.
I think the car is fun to operate, I forgot to mention the transmission has no synchromesh in any gear, those of us that love to double clutch old cars have a ball operating them. Many others just crash gears and think its normal. You can't be in a hurry to change gear without double clutching.
I'm going to sort out a rear axle issue that has cropped up this year and sell the car next year. I'm only 74 but crawling around under the car is not as much fun as it used to be. I think this will be my last fun vehicle and may pick up an early piece of machinery like an old hit and miss engine to play with. I have a friend that collects them and is selling his vast collection, some so big they sit on a wagon.
I'm 87 and learned to drive in a Model A. 
Great answer. You are absolutely right. I've spent many hours and days on long motorcycle trips. Only had one "touring" bike with fairing, hard bags, adjustable suspension, stereo and all. Couldn't wait to be rid of it. I'd rather bungee my stuff on a naked bike and make do. That's just what I like. The guys on big Gold Wings, BMWs or Tour Glides probably enjoy their comforts as they whoosh along.
The Model A and it's ilk required the participation of the driver, at many levels, to make the transportation thing happen. Weather, road condition, route planning, vehicle maintenance and so many other factors had to be included it trips, both short and long. Today, any idiot can buy a 300hp road rocket and drive off knowing nothing other than "long pedal 'go', other pedal 'stop.'" Zipping down the road while texting, eating a Big Mac and applying makeup at 90mph is not an improvement over the old way. It is more convenient. It is more comfortable. The brain need not be bothered with the task of driving. Just decide where to go, turn off brain and, Google Maps, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, towing assist, traction control, ABS, collision avoidance and 360° camera views will get you there whether you deserve the task's successful completion or not. Reliable Auto Pilot is not far off.
I wasn't trying to say Model A ownership and driving were easier, faster, more comfortable, safer or more convenient. It was a better way to live. Our habits adapt to the means at hand. If you don't know there is a Tesla, or F-250 Super Duty you won't miss the Tesla or Powerstroke. Life was more difficult and more involving in a Model A society. Everything invented since has merely allowed the idiot class to do the things that once required a competent motorist. Is that better?
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