New guy with 1931 Model A Sport Coupe

[1931amnypt]

My first post to say hello...

I just recently picked up the Model A from my father-in-law, who unfortunately due to health issues is unable to finish it....Damn Cancer!

Its in pieces, bagged, boxed and wrapped up in blankets, but its all there. He says he purchased a newer motor, however its never fired. The body has been painted, but most of the trim tidbits have not.

My goal is to get her finished in 8-12 month in hopes he may go for a ride.

Thanks,
Richard

[Tom Wesenberg]

Damn cancer is right. Sorry to hear about your father in law. It looks like he did a first class job on the car so far. That will be a nice car when it's done.
I wonder why the head studs are up so high? Normally they only stick above the nuts by a thread or one and a half threads. Your goal seems doable, as it looks to be on the downhill side now.

[Spokes]

Great looking car. You will love this site. I am sure Ford Barners that live around you will make contact with you and give you a hand. Ask any questions here and you will get answers.

[Drive Shaft Dave]

Originally Posted by Tom Wesenberg

Damn cancer is right. Sorry to hear about your father in law. It looks like he did a first class job on the car so far. That will be a nice car when it's done.
I wonder why the head studs are up so high? Normally they only stick above the nuts by a thread or one and a half threads. Your goal seems doable, as it looks to be on the downhill side now.

Also, looks like there are washers under the head nuts. Nice looking car.

[Mike V. Florida]

Welcome to the hobby and best of luck with the reassembly of the car.

[frank mcdaniels]

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What a nice way to honor your father in law by finishing his project.Also you will always have something to remember him by.It looks like a really great project, your really lucky to receive it. Onward to completion! Frank

[Mitch//pa]

welcome and sorry to hear the circumstances
your time frame seems easily doable
great looking car

[al's28/33]

WELCOME.....you will find all your help and answers here just as good as any "A" book....along with all practical experiences.

Use the "search" feature to look up old posts regarding certain issues....tons of knowledge from this site.

[rudvirus]

You will find a lot of great people on here that will give you advice on how to get it done and going. I hope you get to finsh the car in time.

[newshirt]

Your father's illness and passing will likely intensify your passion to complete the project. May he rest in peace. But you'll never actually finish. You'll be tinkering and tweaking for years to come. Enjoy!

Oh, and read every post on fordbarn. I did for nearly five years. Now I only read about half because I'm too busy at work. You'll learn stuff you never imagined. These guys are sharp!

[JohnLaVoy]

Richard, I live in Rocklin. PM me and I can give you my contact info and connect you with people around your area that might be able to help you out.

[Henry1953]

Very nice looking car. You can easily finish it in a year. It looks like it is well under way.

[Brentwood Bob]

The local clubs are very supportive and will be a great resource. Start a journal/log and document each thing you do. Digital pictures of restored cars also help to get the correct install done.
Get the history on the car.
Bob

[1931amnypt]

Originally Posted by JohnLaVoy

Richard, I live in Rocklin. PM me and I can give you my contact info and connect you with people around your area that might be able to help you out.

PM sent


Thanks everyone for the support...its much appreciated!!

Best regards,
Richard

[glenn in camino]

Richard, My name is Glenn Johnson. I live in Camino which is just East of Placerville. I finished my late 31 sport coupe about 2 years ago and I'm currently working on my 6th restoration, a 28 roadster. Email me at [email protected] with any questions re. your 31 sport coupe.
Vol 5 of the How to restore your Model A books has some good information re. 32 sport coupes

[BlueSunoco]

Great car! Nice body style to restore you-is-lucky!!

Welcome and keep posting very interested in your project. That car is definitely a keeper w/ the history behind it.

[G&N Farms]

Very cool, if I lived closer , I'd help you put it back together..

[1931amnypt]

Spent the day sorting through all the parts staging them. Got the kids involved helping me identify the tidbits in the various catalogs. Next weekend I will start on the brakes. I may be reaching out to you local guys if I get stuck.

Take care,
Richard

[Tinbasher]

As your seeing all ready your Father In-law has left you more than a car.

John Poole

[BlueSunoco]

Nice car nice project.

He told you that the motor has not been run,,,, and there is a 'no oil' sticker on the head. When you fill the motor with oil it is best to pull the distributor and pour the fresh oil in that way when first adding oil to the engine. That way it fills the dipper troughs right off the bat. 5 quarts use what you like best do a search on here and spend about two hours reading what the other guys use and recommend! Shell Rotella 15W-40 seems to be the favorite. Not what I use but many do.

I'd also dribble some ATF (Auto. Transmission Fluid) down each cylinder and turn it over by hand a few times to make sure the rings aren't married to the cylinder walls before firing it up. It will smoke plenty at first but will burn off.