The Ford Barn

Joe K · 03-01-2016, 08:36 PM

Back about 2005 when I was still active in the Model A (before the job REALLY changed) I had a pair of 29 CC pickup door handles restored by PV Antique Auto out in Western MA. I was stationed in my work nearby and it gave me something to do nights in the motel. They did a pretty fair job to include the plastic piece in the square (which they indicate was originally fabric covering painted with MANY coats of paint - which the plastic simulates perfectly - and is more weather resistant.)

I was pleased they did the work as the door handles are made up of discrete pieces which all have to be disassembled - and then reassembled after plating/restoration - and then carefully soldered on the back side.

On receipt of the handle and after having paid and still having some money left over (and a good income) I decided to experiment and buy a pair of the then "repop" available handle. Just to compare, mind you. The repop was a little more than 1/3rd the price of the restored handles.

Well, the first may not be the LAST Model A truck I restore.

The repop handle was "close." Not exact. For instance, the repop was not soldered on the backside. Super glued, I think. And the cylinder portion connecting handle to body escutcheon was "straight" and not tapered as were the originals.

For judging, an original handle is the ONLY way to go - since the differences are apparent to the knowing. But for functionality and appearance among the unwashed masses, the repop was AOK. A quality - good - but not exceptionally accurate repop.

Joe K

03-01-2016, 08:36 PM	#11
Joe K Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Cow Hampshire Posts: 5,013	Re: Door Latches for 1929 Closed Cab PU Back about 2005 when I was still active in the Model A (before the job REALLY changed) I had a pair of 29 CC pickup door handles restored by PV Antique Auto out in Western MA. I was stationed in my work nearby and it gave me something to do nights in the motel. They did a pretty fair job to include the plastic piece in the square (which they indicate was originally fabric covering painted with MANY coats of paint - which the plastic simulates perfectly - and is more weather resistant.) I was pleased they did the work as the door handles are made up of discrete pieces which all have to be disassembled - and then reassembled after plating/restoration - and then carefully soldered on the back side. On receipt of the handle and after having paid and still having some money left over (and a good income) I decided to experiment and buy a pair of the then "repop" available handle. Just to compare, mind you. The repop was a little more than 1/3rd the price of the restored handles. Well, the first may not be the LAST Model A truck I restore. The repop handle was "close." Not exact. For instance, the repop was not soldered on the backside. Super glued, I think. And the cylinder portion connecting handle to body escutcheon was "straight" and not tapered as were the originals. For judging, an original handle is the ONLY way to go - since the differences are apparent to the knowing. But for functionality and appearance among the unwashed masses, the repop was AOK. A quality - good - but not exceptionally accurate repop. Joe K __________________ Shudda kept the horse.