My father purchased this 1923 Ford Model T from the owner of a local front-end alignment shop. The engine had been rebuilt and a majority of the body and pieces had been painted white, but the car was never completely reassembled. As may be typically found cars such as the Model T, there were a number of components for various years that could be interchanged. It was difficult to determine, looking at the pile of old parts in the corner of the shop, which ones were correct for this car. We trailered the car and all of the miscellaneous parts home where I spend several days disassembling the car completely and inventorying the parts on hand.
Very little bodywork or woodwork was needed on the car. What parts I did need to obtain were readily available at swap meets or from vendors specializing in old Fords. I found it to be less expensive to purchase reproduction fenders, running boards, and other items rather than attempting to fix the old ones that came with the car.
The assembly of the car was an enjoyable experience, and I would not hesitate in doing another Model T because of its functionality and simplicity. I believe it would have been a greater challenge and time-consuming project if I were to restore the car to the intricate detail that would be necessary for the Model T Ford Club. It was very satisfying to transform this collection of parts into a complete and running car, but it was a totally new experience in attempting to learn how to drive the car. Luckily some of those more experienced with a T from our car club helped me out with learning the basics of operating the uniqueness of the transmission system of the Model T�s.
I like to try to do as much work as possible, even if only once, to see if I can do it. In this case my first attempt at the installation of the convertible top proved to be a challenge. I would not attempt this task again without the help of friends with more experience in this area. I thoroughly enjoyed the restoration process and driving the Ford Model T and would certainly consider working on another one if the opportunity presented itself. The car was eventually traded several years ago for a well-kept 1972 Chevrolet El Camino. |
