Model A Rotisserie Questions

[Curt Campbell]

I have used a rotisserie to aid in the frame up restoration process, none of those were 1930 cars. In visiting with some local Model A guys, there is some concern expressed that due to the structure of the Model A body, it may not be able to withstand a 90 degree or full turn on a rotisserie. Reasons given are the not-as-solid subframe of the A compared to a Camaro or other type car. It would not have the frame installed on it when on the rotisserie.

I am about to begin another project, my 31 Tudor Deluxe. Any thoughts or experiences here? Sure don't want to get the body out of whack if it wont withstand the turn. Of course, the door openings would be solidified with a steel tube temporarily welded in place.

Brent...do you use a rotisserie??

THANKS!!! Curt in Iowa

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

Originally Posted by Curt Campbell

Brent...do you use a rotisserie??

Yep! On Camaros, Buicks, ... and Model-A open cars too...

























I think you get the idea!! My rotisseries don't know whether there is a Model-A or a Camaro, or a Buick, -or whatever on them. Maybe it is because mine are commercially built units that do not flex but I do not see a need to brace then on Tudors?? We have had many different Tudors on them too. I say your friends are worrying about the wrong thing.

.

[Curt Campbell]

Thank you Brent!

[Dodge]

Don't see a problem with your Tudor it has an all steel structure, just don't try it with
a Fordor with an all wood frame.

[Smitty]

You mount the body on the forward and back ends of the sub-frame, not a channel running full length of the underside of the body for support?

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

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Originally Posted by Smitty

You mount the body on the forward and back ends of the sub-frame, not a channel running full length of the underside of the body for support?

Please forgive me but is this a comment or a question?

[Mike V. Florida]

Originally Posted by BRENT in 10-uh-C

Please forgive me but is this a comment or a question?

I read this as;

If you mount the body on the forward and back ends of the sub-frame, not a channel running full length of the underside of the body for support, are you not worried about a bend or sag forming are it rolls around?

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

Originally Posted by Mike V. Florida

I read this as;

If you mount the body on the forward and back ends of the sub-frame, not a channel running full length of the underside of the body for support, are you not worried about a bend or sag forming are it rolls around?

Well, if that is the jest, then hopefully the pix above speak for how I/we do it. I have been using them since the mid-90's and I have not seen any adverse effects yet. Naturally we don't use them while we are installing patch panels or fitting panels as we have special jigs & fixtures for that.

[Great Lakes Greg]

I ran a length of small pipe (like elecrical conduit) across the tops of the door openings on a phaeton. Welded a small piece of rod perpendicular on one end to go in the door hinge loops and a bolt on the other end to go through a striker plate hole and fastened on the other side. There is no doubt the body would have folded like a wet noodle otherwise, or at least been severly comprimised.

[glenn in camino]

When I painted my frame, I made a rotissery using two engine stands. It worked good but probably wouldn't be strong enough for a body.

[Curt Campbell]

Thanks again all you guys. You are the best!!! I am documenting my restoration in detail when I get started....so I will keep pictures coming.

This is really an amazing site.