Model A Luggage Trunks?

[HoarseWhisperer]

“Original Ford Model A”, by Jim Schild lists “TRUNK” under the Dealer Options and Authorized Ford Accessories as of June 1929.
I realize that there were many aftermarket luggage trunks (metal and leather) produced to fit the Model A luggage rack, but would anyone have information as to who manufactured the “Authorized” trunks, presumably sold through dealerships?

[Rowdy]

The person I bought this one from is well into her 80's and claims it was put on her Dad's 28 tudor at the dealership when it was new. I believe this style was made by Kari-Keen. Rod

[HoarseWhisperer]

Thanks for the info and photos, Rod. Are any markings readable on the locks?
I was carrying one of those large leather/vinyl repro trunks, but then opted for the low-profile metal trunk which I thought looked more authentic on the smaller Roadster. It had some minor surface rust and dents, but easily refurbished. There were no indications of the trunk manufacturer other than Eagle Lock Co. of Terryvillle, CT made the locks.
There must be some documentation somewhere regarding what trunks Henry authorized the dealers to sell........



Actually, I prefer the appearance of a trunkless Roadster, but where else would I carry my tools, spare parts and beer?

[Rowdy]

I have not looked closely at the lock, but will do so this weekend. When I go after the tudor body later this year there is another trunk on that homestead. I may try to buy it also. Several scattered parts, but also alot of rattle snakes, so likely be Sept. before I attempt it. Rod

[skip]

There was a Model 'A' Club on the 'Old' Barn' that had complete instructions on how to build a proper trunk...it was a favorite till my confusser took a dump. Now I can't find it anymore,
Anyone?

skip.

[HoarseWhisperer]

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This is for EARLE
Earle, if you ever find keys for your M1 AUTO LOCKS on your metal trunk, at least you'll know how to operate it.

[Earle]

Thanks again, Hoarse! Good stuff. Now all I need are keys!...

Earle

[Bruce,Upstate NY]

Trunk base size depends on early or late rack. They are different sizes.

[Jerry Parr WI]

Originally Posted by HoarseWhisperer

This is for EARLE
Earle, if you ever find keys for your M1 AUTO LOCKS on your metal trunk, at least you'll know how to operate it.

I am currently restoring an all metal trunk with MIautoLock hardware. I recently saw a fabric covered trunk at a swap meet with the same hardware. They have a split core with no tumblers. The split prevents a screw driver from opening them. Nice thing is they operate with Model A ignition keys. Any chance of getting a quality scan of this tag.

[HoarseWhisperer]

Originally Posted by Jerry Parr WI

I am currently restoring an all metal trunk with MIautoLock hardware. I recently saw a fabric covered trunk at a swap meet with the same hardware. They have a split core with no tumblers. The split prevents a screw driver from opening them. Nice thing is they operate with Model A ignition keys. Any chance of getting a quality scan of this tag.

Jerry,
Don't know if a better scan is available somewhere in cyberspace. I found that photo at a closed auction: http://www.icollector.com/MI-Auto-Lo...Trunk_i7287479

Here are some close-up of the Eagle Locks on my metal trunk. Found a locksmith in Milwaukee that had original keys for it.

[Stillrunners]

have one like Rowdy's...all metal - very heavy...not as nice - taken it to many a swap meet and tried to get $45 bucks for it...drug it out for this years Pate Swap meet...decided not to load it up...got it from an old A - restorers estate who had passed.....

[Jerry Parr WI]

Originally Posted by HoarseWhisperer

Jerry,
Don't know if a better scan is available somewhere in cyberspace. I found that photo at a closed auction: http://www.icollector.com/MI-Auto-Lo...Trunk_i7287479

Here are some close-up of the Eagle Locks on my metal trunk. Found a locksmith in Milwaukee that had original keys for it.

Thank you. I did copy the other side also. I believe these companies only made hardware not complete trunks. Thought a repro tag would be a nice touch on the trunk. I never looked for an original key after I discovered a model A ignition key works. Wonder if Briggs made the originals.

[HoarseWhisperer]

Interesting. Is there reference that Briggs made trunks? It would make sense.
A lengthy, but interesting read about Briggs Body Company at:
http://www.coachbuilt.com/bui/b/briggs/briggs.htm

[Rowdy]

I know the felling. We have had the full set up to several swap meets including Chickasha this spring. I do not think we will be carting it around to any more. Dad payed $65 for the trunk and I purchsed the mounts with a complete left side from a 28 tudor for $125. I used the lower qarter and door for the delivery. Sold the upper quarter for $95, and my old door from the delivery for $85. I gave the mounts to Dad and he has decided to put that set up for later use ans he could not come out ahead on them at this time. Rod

[Model A Man]

Originally Posted by skip

There was a Model 'A' Club on the 'Old' Barn' that had complete instructions on how to build a proper trunk...it was a favorite till my confusser took a dump. Now I can't find it anymore,
Anyone?

skip.

It was the Tokay A's but I dont think they have their web site anymore. There is also directions with pictures on how to build a model A trunk in the How to Restore Your Model A Vol 7 from MAFCA

[Bud]

Dear Rowdy,
Yes what you have is a Kari-Keen. Getting the trunk is the easy part. Getting all the brackets is the tough part. Brackets vary thru the years and also by 28-29 and 30-31. I am putting one together right now for my Fordor and it took me a long time to find all the brackets.
Bud

[Kraton]

Originally Posted by skip

There was a Model 'A' Club on the 'Old' Barn' that had complete instructions on how to build a proper trunk...it was a favorite till my confusser took a dump. Now I can't find it anymore,
Anyone?

skip.

I have found a pdf with the title "Build Your Own Custom Luggage Trunk" on MAFCA.

http://www.mafca.com/downloads/Technical/

Look for "Trunk Lewis.pdf" about three quarters down.

Greetings

[Preacher]

[QUOTE=HoarseWhisperer;21421]
I was carrying one of those large leather/vinyl repro trunks, but then opted for the low-profile metal trunk which I thought looked more authentic on the smaller Roadster.


yes, it sure does look better....but looked good before also!

[Mike V. Florida]

Build your own model A trunk

You can get the parts here; http://www.brettunsvillage.com/trunks/
Here is my trunk using the plans and parts listed;

[Bick in New Zealand]

My understanding is the Ford authorised trunks were made by C.A.Taylor who operated out of Chicago and New York.

[Ken/SC]

I made my own in Vinyl and plywood with felt inside.
I have the plans and a bill of material.
$80-$100 in materials. Email me and I will send them
to you.

[HoarseWhisperer]

Originally Posted by Bick in New Zealand

My understanding is the Ford authorised trunks were made by C.A.Taylor who operated out of Chicago and New York.

Hey Bick,

That's what I'm looking for. Can't find any info on C.A. Taylor Co.

Do you recall the source?

[Bick in New Zealand]

I came across the information while doing some research while building mine. I wanted to try and make it as authentic as possible. I do remember that there is a picture of one on the MAFFI site and it is listed as a Taylor but can't remember where the rest of the information came from. Do you have any close up pics of the emblems you have mounted to your radiator? I am very curious!

[HoarseWhisperer]

Originally Posted by Bick in New Zealand

I came across the information while doing some research while building mine. I wanted to try and make it as authentic as possible. I do remember that there is a picture of one on the MAFFI site and it is listed as a Taylor but can't remember where the rest of the information came from. Do you have any close up pics of the emblems you have mounted to your radiator? I am very curious!

Bick, here are close-ups of the Rad Badges. It has become yet another obsession to collect all of the Canadian cites that were part of the Ontario Motor League.

I have been able to find out that the OML badges were issued 1931 and earlier and that the CAA version came out by 1933, perhaps 1932.

To the best of my knowledge, the Canada's National Parks badges were issued 1925 -1940 and are getting increasingly difficult to find. I've seen them as high as $750 on EBAY auctions.

[Glenn C.]

I would sure like to obtain the trim pieces for the Kari Keen trunk. I have the trunk that I could restore, if I had quality trim pieces. The existing trim pieces for the corners are in very bad shape, and do I not know of anyone that might be able to repair or replicate new ones. Tire bracket I have.

[Mike V. Florida]

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I have found information on C.A. Malm and a separate company Taylor (several actually) but no C.A. Taylor.

[HoarseWhisperer]

C.A. Taylor Trunk Works
Maker of high-end trunks, very well made, and also held patents on many types of trunk parts that were used by several companies.
"Makers of the Celebrated Taylor XX Professional Trunks"
130 West Madison Street, Chicago (also on E. Randolph Street)

http://www.brettunsvillage.com/trunk...nkmakersp.html

[Bick in New Zealand]

Very nice emblems Hoarse, would look very nice on an early Canadian roadster!

[1930artdeco]

Here is the one I just got done with. Not perfect but will do the job.

Mike

[HoarseWhisperer]

Nice trunk artdeco.
Is there any indication as to the manufacturer of the trunk or locks?
One lock appears to have a swing cover?

[HoarseWhisperer]

Originally Posted by Bick in New Zealand

I came across the information while doing some research while building mine. I wanted to try and make it as authentic as possible. I do remember that there is a picture of one on the MAFFI site and it is listed as a Taylor but can't remember where the rest of the information came from. Do you have any close up pics of the emblems you have mounted to your radiator? I am very curious!

Hey, Bick.

I just picked up a 37" C A Taylor luggage trunk.

Not sure if 37" was made for any Model A luggage rack, but it fits nicely in the 1928 Pickup bed.

Now the search for keys, begins.

[juke joint johnny]

Hoarsewhisperer
I like the rad badges, but what a beauty that trunk is !!!!

Mr Taylor was proud of his product & not without reason

John Cochran

[spike]

Potter trunk co in Jackson mich was a trunk co. They had there name on the inside just a decale and most are missing now. They made a curve back and a streight back, no straps just locks and crome cornors and bloted on the bottom. I dont have any pic. but they look like 1930 art delcos trunk.

[HoarseWhisperer]

Originally Posted by juke joint johnny

Hoarsewhisperer
I like the rad badges, but what a beauty that trunk is !!!!

Mr Taylor was proud of his product & not without reason

John Cochran

John, the trunk is in great shape and acquired at a very reasonable price.

I picked it up in Illinois on the way to the MARC meet in Wisconsin.

Does anyone know if there was a Model A Luggage rack to fit a 37" trunk?

[Bick in New Zealand]

Wow, that is a fabulous trunk. The badge looks mint. Great score!. The Folding black rack has different dimensions to the chrome one. I don't have mine handy otherwise I would measure it.

[FL&WVMIKE]

The official trunk, that Ford dealers sold, is pictured in the Judging Standards.
MIKE

[ivoryjohn]

At some point we all seem to run out of things to restore on our cars. All the gem crack bits of accessories are installed and there is nothing to do except maintain and drive the cars. How totally boring to not have a going project.

I have a beautiful aftermarket trunk for my '29 Fordor but is wasn't satisfying. I believe I wanted more of a statement from my rear end perhaps that is what I was thinking when I drank too much coffee and decided to make my own trunk to my own design. I like it and that is all that counts even if it isn't original Ford equipment. Quite often it gets more comments from the public than the car.

The extra trunk mounted brake lights and reflectors are for extra safety and the trunks un-plugs when it is removed.

Sometimes it is hard to know when to stop fiddling with our stuff.

[Richard Wilson]

Wow IvoryJohn. That looks like a pirate's "treasure" chest. Very nice and different!

[Jon]

Found this one on Craigslist. It was painted with aluminum paint when I got it. Bead blasted all of the paint off and re-finished it. Not sure I like it, but it is different.

[irvan]

I don't know what the trunk is on mine, i just got the car and this is what was on it.

[FL&WVMIKE]

Originally Posted by ivoryjohn

At some point we all seem to run out of things to restore on our cars. All the gem crack bits of accessories are installed and there is nothing to do except maintain and drive the cars. How totally boring to not have a going project.

I have a beautiful aftermarket trunk for my '29 Fordor but is wasn't satisfying. I believe I wanted more of a statement from my rear end perhaps that is what I was thinking when I drank too much coffee and decided to make my own trunk to my own design. I like it and that is all that counts even if it isn't original Ford equipment. Quite often it gets more comments from the public than the car.

The extra trunk mounted brake lights and reflectors are for extra safety and the trunks un-plugs when it is removed.

Sometimes it is hard to know when to stop fiddling with our stuff.

ivoryjohn .......................
You built that !!! Very impressive !!! Look at that joint work !! You, surely wanted to do that right !
The only thing wrong, is you can't set your coffee cup on top.
Congratulations !
MIKE

[Tom from Drippin']

Found in my Mom's attic and redond for the Roadster.

[Bick in New Zealand]

"The Folding black rack has different dimensions to the chrome one. I don't have mine handy otherwise I would measure it. "

The measurements are 33 x 16 1/2, still too small.

[Bick in New Zealand]

Potter trunk co in Jackson mich was a trunk co. They had there name on the inside just a decale and most are missing now.

Here is what it looked like:

[HoarseWhisperer]

Originally Posted by Bick in New Zealand

"The Folding black rack has different dimensions to the chrome one. I don't have mine handy otherwise I would measure it. "

The measurements are 33 x 16 1/2, still too small.

Thx, Bick. Is that from a coupe or sedan?

My rack from the Dlx Roadster measures 34.5" x 14.5" ID.

The Taylor trunk is a slant back for the sedans.

[Bick in New Zealand]

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It is the standard Ford folding rack for all models

[steve40490]

how did you bend the wood on the lid ?

[Lona]

For those who like the metal trunks but can't find one in good condition, a few pounds of Bondo, vinyl leatherette and some pliable leather for corners makes a nicely finished trunk.

Glen

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

In earlier times, TRUNKS were IMPORTANT for storage, in the homes, in the barns & ON the cars, for traveling.
Wish I knew the history of my REALLY Old, Large trunk! Lock looks as if it was SHOT out by a .45, from the INSIDE of the trunk?????---I've seen similar trunks, in Old Movies and films of people arriving through Ellis Island. It's covered inside, by "wallpaper"???
Bill Puzzled

[Synchro909]

I mildly surprised that I haven't seen any reference to the trunks that have the hinge along the bottom right at the back. They only open a certain amount before they lock with the top open so you can load heaps more stuff in them. If I'd seen one of those before I made mine, I'd have done one like that.