Just Starting from the SoCal Desert

[BillCNC]

Hello All

The Model A vacuum has finally sucked me in. It's been a dream since childhood to own a Model A or a Plymouth Superbird and since I'm not a Billionaire and I'm posting here, ... well you get the point.

My kids are grown and have been living on their own for several years now and with no significant other, ... It's Time to have my wallet dry cleaned and pressed (emptied).

I have a brother in-law that has been a bigwig mechanic with ford for just about his entire carrier and he will be joining me as another set of eyes when I look at the cars. The only problem I have is trying to decide on a Coupe or a Sedan. As for the year, Heck, any year would work for me.

A couple of questions:

1). Is there anything in particular that we should be looking at/for or hidden problem areas?

2). Are there any Kiss of death signs to look for?

3). Is there a preferred place to get the manuals and other info from?

Thank you for taking the time to read this post and any info would be greatly appreciated.

Regards
Bill

[1955cj5]

Several vendors.....and the catalogs have diagrams that are helpful

https://modelastore.com/


https://www.brattons.com/


http://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/

They all offer Les Andrew's mechanics handbook..

And there's the Instruction book.....

[Y-Blockhead]

Well you made a great start by joining The Barn. Pull up a tire and sit awhile....

Originally Posted by BillCNC

The only problem I have is trying to decide on a Coupe or a Sedan. As for the year, Heck, any year would work for me.

Regards
Bill

As far as body style a lot depends on how big you are. Big fellas have a hard time fittin' in coupes. Even in my '30 Town Sedan I had to move the seat back 3" and bend the shifter ~1" to the right to be comfortable. (I'm 6'2", 190psig) Other than that, get the body you like best.

[California Travieso]

Originally Posted by BillCNC

Hello All

The Model A vacuum has finally sucked me in. It's been a dream since childhood to own a Model A or a Plymouth Superbird and since I'm not a Billionaire and I'm posting here, ... well you get the point.

My kids are grown and have been living on their own for several years now and with no significant other, ... It's Time to have my wallet dry cleaned and pressed (emptied).

I have a brother in-law that has been a bigwig mechanic with ford for just about his entire carrier and he will be joining me as another set of eyes when I look at the cars. The only problem I have is trying to decide on a Coupe or a Sedan. As for the year, Heck, any year would work for me.

A couple of questions:

1). Is there anything in particular that we should be looking at/for or hidden problem areas?

2). Are there any Kiss of death signs to look for?

3). Is there a preferred place to get the manuals and other info from?

Thank you for taking the time to read this post and any info would be greatly appreciated.

Regards
Bill

Bill,

what part of the desert are you located in, the High Desert or Coachella Valley?

David Serrano

[Bob C]

Welcome. If you look at a Fordor sedan watch out for the wood, they have
a lot of wood unless it is a 1931 slat window.

Bob

[RawhideKid]

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Bill, I am 6'3" 225 and have a '28 Tudor and had to move the seat back 3" to fit. I recommend a Tudor or Four Door sedan, and if you get the sedan, the later years have adjustable seats I believe. A Coupe or Roadster of any of the years has very limited seat movability for tall folk. If you are 5'9" or shorter, anything will do.

Remove the radiator cap and note the cleanliness, any sludge can mean over heating problems which lead to engine problems.

Bill, the Mitchell 2 speed is a $2k upgrade that is well worth the cost for a serious driver. I believe the trailer is another $3k, and I do not know that oil filter system. I also notice it has the Float-A-Motor mounts, and this could be a sign of high vibrations. I have also noticed that the steering box has been changed to what looks like the Randy Gross F-100 box, which is a great upgrade.

[BillCNC]

Thank You ALL for the responses, ...

I am 5'9 / 190 and getting smaller. My legs area little short for my torso which does help and I am located in the Hi-Desert, ... in Hesperia.

Well, these are the two I'm trying to inspect right now and am waiting for a time and date. I hope nobody from this forum snipes them, ...

My first choice, ... 1929 Coupe. A little pricy, but she looks very clean. The trailer would also come in handy. The down side, ... I've never been a fan of gold paint.

http://www.westcoastcorvettesales.co...e333e14/#Video

Second choice, ... 1929 Sedan, ... This also looks very clean and it's in the same town.

https://classiccars.com/listings/vie...lifornia-92345

The cars will get looked over and how, ... I used to wholesale cars to used car dealers, so I do know how things are hidden, just not on anything pre-50's. I'll bring the brother in-law and a few tools along with polishing cloths and a few magnets.

As far as the prices go, ... both are a little high, ... but I do think the 31 sedan is close and the 29 coupe is a few grand high.

What are your thoughts?

Regards
Bill

[JDupuis]

Welcome to the Barn, Bill.
Both of your car choices are very desirable. And not overpriced.
The coupe has had alot of great upgrades to make it more roadable. Example, the overdrive, the signals, alternator and the stearing box. That little trailer is an added 3000 to 3500 $ touch as well. Nice car.
The Tudor also a great looking car. Needs nothing but a driver, the choice is yours.
Good Luck. Jeff

[1955cj5]

These are scattered all over the country but you can get some pricing ideas..

http://www.mafca.com/cl/cl-v-sale.html



.

[Utopia Texas]

Think about what you are going to do with the Model A and remember that standard Coupes cannot carry many folks unless you modify the trunk and let them ride in the sun, heat, cold and rain!
I bought my late 1931 slant windshield 4 door sedan in 1988 when they were laughed at in the local hobby as the "clunky" Model A. The reality is I can carry 5 folks if necessary and my wife beems at the extra space when we go on antiquing tours. Can also carry lots of luggage etc.
I sold both of my Model T Coupes because when family or company came over I could only take one other person for a ride at one time.
On the other hand if you never plan on more than one other passenger Coupes are great fun.....!

[glenn in camino]

1. Engine major oil or water leaks, 2, noisy trans or rear end, 3, Paint is an original color in good condition, 4, upholstery is original type material and in good condition.
Take it out for a test drive at 50-55 mph to see how it sounds and stops. When you return, look underneath to see what's leaking. They all leak a little.

[Scottio57]

Hi Bill. Scott here. I'm just down the road in Lancaster. Welcome. Travieso I just went through your area today on my way back from my family party in Oceanside. Getting a little smoky around there.

[daveymc29]

Just from the pictures I'd take the Tudor. Coupe is close to the high end of getting screwed, in my thinking. Tudor looks a lot more original with a couple of extras. There is something to be said for the gear splitter in the coupe, but they are a club project easily done in a day if a few guys come by with some knowledge. tudor seat can be moved a bit farther back, but if you're like me that isn't that much of a problem. I stand 6' tall but sit 6'6" and it seems you do close to the same. I drive a coupe and a roadster with some slow entry and exiting, practice makes it easier over time. Tudor doesn't have a lot of wood, but there is some. Out there in Hesperia it should bo okay if it wasn't neglected and it doesn't look like it was/

[California Travieso]

Bill,

Forgot to welcome you to the Barn. Yes, we have a fire that started this after noon on the border between Riverside and Moreno Valley off of the I-215. There is a lot of smoke around my house.

We bought our Roadster off the MAFCA website. We bought in Orange County because we didn't want to travel too far to inspect it and take it home. The owner kept it garaged for the 20 years he owned it and kept it in very good condition. There are a lot of cars on Craig's List too.

Another idea is to go to the Swap meets around Southern Cal and you'll see a few cars for sale. There is one coming up in Chatsworth on August 20th listed here on the Barn.

Good luck with your search,

David Serrano

[Dollar Bill]

Welcome to the Barn - Glad to have you!!!

If I had to choose between the two judging on digital only, I would be on the Tudor like a chicken on a June bug.

It's period correct on the color - May not be a concern for you now but A's that not color correct will be more difficult to sell. Painting a Model A ain't cheap.

Both Coupe and Tudor do not have correct wheels. Should be 21" on the Coupe and 19" on the Tudor.

Later model cars have more production refinements and usually less wood.

Good luck in your hunt and again, Welcome Aboard!

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

Vermin, my Avatar car is for sale, along with 2 HUGE tool chests full of tools, all my heavy equipment, spares, etc. $22,000.00 CASH for the WHOLE KABOODLE !
Bill W.

[BillCNC]

Hello Gentelman,

As of right now, the Model A is just for fun and crusin around town however that might change a little once I start driving her. I really don't have a preference of a Coupe or Sedan and if I did, I might lean a little on the Coupe side, not sure why though, maybe it seems more personal instead of a family car. I also don't' really have any interest in giving rides to everyone and their mother, possibly the grand kids every now and then and even if I get a Sedan, I'll only take one or two at a time. Have you ever been in a car stuffed with a bunch of grand kids, ... Forgetaboutit! I don't wield the power of a parent so control is limited.

glenn in camino;

Good points to be aware of, thanks.


Utopia Texas;

A Fordor isn't in the stars for me as it suggest to others, ... Gimme a Ride. BUT, ... I have been reading that many Fordor owners wish they had a Fordor for Grocery-store runs and stuff. I really don't need to do that, as I own 2 ford F-150's.


Scottio57;

I'm out that way about every other week. Perhaps we will meet some day.


Jdupui;

Good point, … Those upgrades do help in drivability and safety.


RawhideKid;

Now there is some information I needed, the swapped out parts. I had no clue and I really need to find these kind of things out and quickly. THANK YOU!

Would there be any other reason to go with those mounts if the car didn't have a viberation issue, perhaps just to make it a little smother that stock mounts?


1955cj5;

Great links, … I'm trying to buy a car that is in excellent shape to where I never have to use those links, that's the goal.


California Travieso;

THANK YOU, … Fantastic, I will have to check out Chatsworth on the 20th. I was planning on going to the event in San Bernardino on 8-24.


Dollar Bill;

VERY important information, … Thanks for the note on the wheels, … by looking at the pictures I would have never known as I am not that far with my eye spotting these things. After you posted that, The only way I could tell was by the tire side walls do look pretty tall. Was that the tell? As far as the color, the Sedan does appeal to me more because I'm not a big fan of gold paint and barely gold anodizing. At first I was looking for a Mechanically sound car that needed cosmetics, … Inside and out. I'd pay for the interior but paint the car myself, I have a few under my belt already and as a professional Prototype / Model Maker, … Spray guns are no strangers to me. So it would only be the cost of materials as I already own the equipment.


BILL WILLIAMSON;

Well your certainly within by distance range but your avatar is to tiny to see well. I'll PM you my email addy and if you could, please send me some pictures.


Guys, this is exactly the type of the info needed so I am buying something worth owning and not just some slapped together morphodite to as of right now, ... Clueless.

After Dollar Bill pointed out the incorrect wheel size on the cars, ... I found out it's about $800.00 per wheel to correct if I was a 100% bone stock guy. For the Coupe with the trailer (7 wheels), ... that's over $6,000.00 with shipping to correct on top of the $22,900 if I paid full pop for the car. Not sure if that a good bargaining lever or not.

Anyhow, if you guys note any other inaccurate things in the photos, PLEASE continue to shout it out, ... don't worry, I learn very quickly!

Regards
Bill

[Fred K-OR]

Like mentioned above, how many people do you want to ride with you when you go for a drive. My wife keeps saying we should have bought a two seat rig rather that a coupe so we can have others go with us. Just one consideration.
Next I would think you need to figure out what you want to pay for a rig, how much do you want to work on it yourself to get it fixed up to a good rig. A fixeruper would be less expensive than both these rigs but it may cost you as much to get it fixed up to where these rigs are now. Just some thoughts.

[V8COOPMAN]

I'd be very careful with that gold coupe. You'll note the "Vin" (SERIAL) number listed is "A1301402", most-likely on the paperwork like the previous title. You should notice below that the stamped number on the block does NOT match that number. The only way to verify that the actual number on the frame matches the "paperwork number" is going to be to lift the body and verify the number stamped into the frame under the cowl area, which you SHOULD do for your own protection, as well as the STATE FOLKS may also wish to SEE that number on the frame (lift body again) when you go to register the paperwork. You really ought to make sure they match NOW, as this problem could easily come back to bite your butt years from now when you go to sell. And DON'T buy an overpriced car from one of those friendly, "rip-off" car dealers. They ain't givin' you no deal, for sure! DD

[BillCNC]

Hello Gentleman,

Looks like I have an appointment to view the 29 Coupe this Friday morning. I'm starting a list of questions to ask and critical points to look over.

https://www.carsforsale.com/vehicle/details/32000887#

Anyone wanna help, … just post the things YOU yourself would ask or look for if you were the one looking to buy.

I'm also looking to make a hit list to try to bring the price down.

Regards
Bill

[BillCNC]

Fred K-OR,

I don't really have a cap on the budget, If it's nice, real nice, ... I'll pay it.

I've done a few restores in my day, and I've learned one thing, ... Let the other guy do 90% of the work because you will ALWAYS loose money and a lot of it. So my goal is to find one that has been restored already, but restored properly. If I have to do some of the smaller piddly stuff, I'm fine with that.

V8COOPMAN;

I have made a note to ask the owner about the numbers not matching. I dought he'll let me lift the body, but he better have some pictures of the number on the frame that were taken during the rebuild process.

Car dealers are not an issue if you know how to play with them, ... I used to wholesale used cars to used car dealers, ... so yeah, ... I know how to play their games, ... all of them. You either have to play the games far better than they do, or you go BK reaal quick.

Regards
Bill

[California Travieso]

Bill,

I just wanted point out that the San Bernardino Swap Meet is SEPTEMBER 24th. In years past, it was two days but I'm not sure about this year.

Also a group from the Paradise Valley Model A Club (San Bernardino) will be attending the Hesperia Days Parade September 16. I don't know how they make it up the Cajon Pass going up to the High Desert, or down it with mechanical brakes for that matter. A lot of the guys have touring motors and hydraulic brakes so I guess it's not too bad.

David Serrano

[Charlie Stephens]

Originally Posted by BillCNC

Hello Gentleman,

Looks like I have an appointment to view the 29 Coupe this Friday morning. I'm starting a list of questions to ask and critical points to look over.

https://www.carsforsale.com/vehicle/details/32000887#

Anyone wanna help, … just post the things YOU yourself would ask or look for if you were the one looking to buy.

I'm also looking to make a hit list to try to bring the price down.

Regards
Bill

I would pass on that car. For what I see it is way over priced, maybe by a factor of two. It looks like it was put together by someone that doesn’t know Model A’s and what you can see makes me wonder what else is questionable. I enjoy stock, properly restored cars with maybe a few minor modifications and this is far from one. That is not to say some of the changes might be appealing to someone (even me), I just don’t like most of them. If you later try to sell the car you will find many of the changes don’t appeal to the average Model A collector and will make it hard to sell. I noted the following:

The color is not stock, plus I don’t like it
I don’t like step plates
The 16-inch wheels are not stock but probably “ok” for driver
I don’t like white walls
Does the trailer come with it? Probably fiberglass
Are the fenders fiberglass?
Horn shouldn’t be chromed
Radiator shell and headlights shouldn’t be chrome (should be nickel)
Front license plate should be mounted on headlight bar
It has a Model B intake manifold, functional but not original
I don’t like alternators (but respect those that do)
Left engine pan is missing, probably to clear later truck steering box
If the fan is original it should be replaced with aluminum repro for safety
It has the wrong water outlet on the head causing a bend in the hose
It looks like later truck steering (which at my age is good)
Wrong upholstery plus I don’t like it
Where did they get their “average price”, I bet it ignores body type
They say it has a “gear splitter”. Good for touring if it is a Mitchel
It has “float a motor” engine mounts, which I don’t like
Air/oil filters are not correct for a restoration but may be ok for a touring car
Ask them to show you the title and where that number appears on the car

In summary, some of my comments are minor and picky based on what I like. Others may find these changes appealing. My main concerns would be that the serial number (VIN) doesn’t match the title, it is not a correct Ford color and has incorrect upholstery. These would be expensive to change and make it hard to sell. For what I see it is way overpriced.

Charlie Stephens

[700rpm]

The Tudor is a better car and buy, judging from the pix. Don't buy the first one you see, and don't buy a nice paint job. If you can, take someone who is really knowledgeable about Model A's with you.

Here are the questions I try to answer when looking at a car: Does it have a spare tire carrier? Are the fenders metal? If "rebuilt," who built the engine? Does it have a working overdrive? Does it have original style shocks and links? What kind of wiper motor does it have? Does the dashlight work? Does it have an original horn and ignition switch? Was the upholstery done correctly? Are there any original tools included? 6v or 12v? Safety glass all around? What is the condition of the tires?

All these things and more can significantly affect the value and price of a car by thousands of dollars. There are many other things to check depending on the body style.

I also take a tarp, a small mirror, a small flashlight, a magnet and a soft cotton cloth. I use the tarp to lay or crouch on to see the underside, and the mirror and flashlight to see into crannies. I use the magnet on sheet metal to detect bondo areas. I run the cloth over the sheet metal with an open palm (you can feel irregularities in the surface much better this way).

I agree with Charlie's assessment. That coupe shows too many indications of work by someone who knew very little about Model A's. It is no way a restoration.

[Chris Haynes]

Here is a list of COMPLETED sales on eBay so you can see what cars are selling for. That coupe is WAY OVERPRICED.
https://www.ebay.com/sch/Cars-Trucks...dmd=1&_ipg=100

[[email protected]]

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I think 1930 was the best year for Model A Fords. Don't go it alone, find somebody very knowledgeable to help you. Model A people are eager to help. Don't get in a hurry. Make sure the car is painted a correct color combination. Do a compression test on each cylinder. Make sure that the tires are like new because they are costly. I recommend a new replacement radiator for trouble free driving. Shocks are expensive to repair or replace. Many times they don't have shocks and you might not realize it. There are so many things that you need to know about that I recommend that you contact the president of a local model A Ford club for guidance. Don't be discouraged, you will love owning and driving a Model A.


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[oldcars]

Here is one for sale in L.A. co. https://losangeles.craigslist.org/sg...242169538.html Also there is a Model A swap meet this Sunday at the Rancho San Antonio Boys home, 21000 Plummer St., Chatsworth, CA. There are usually a few Model A's for sale there.

[Charlie Stephens]

Bill,

You should narrow down what you really want. It is terrible to get into a project only to decide that you really wanted a different body style. Worse than deciding you painted the car the wrong color. Are you in a local club that holds events? The best place to go to decide (where they have one of everything) is the Model A Ford Pancake Breakfast in Orange County (unfortunately it is not until April). Someone else posted about a swap meet this weekend (Post #27), which I will probably attend if my modern car is not still in the shop. If I make it I will bring my camera and post anything that might interest you. You say a coupe or a sedan and the year doesn’t matter. To me there is a big difference in the years. My preference is the ’30-31 body/fender lines. The ’28-29’s have more of a Model T appearance with their bodylines and the ’30-31’s have smoother bodylines like a ‘32, which has even smoother lines. Having said that, some people prefer the ’28-’29 because they look more “antique”. You said sedan but didn’t specify the number of doors or windows. The ’28-’31 Tudor Sedans are all steel bodies. All of the ’28-’31 4 door sedans except the late ’31 (called the slant window because of the slant on the windshield) have a LOT OF WOOD. They are sort of a wood structure with sheet metal attached. If the wood needs to be replaced it can become VERY EXPENSIVE very quick. The best indication of a problem with the wood is the fit of the doors. The only 4-door sedan I would want is a ’31 slant window (the early ‘31’s had a straight window). The ’28-’31 coupes all have the same small amount of wood so that is not a deciding factor for a coupe. You might want to check out http://www.mafca.com/gallery.html

Be careful about cosmetic restorations, good paint and brightwork but unreliable/dangerous mechanicals.


Charlie Stephens

[BillCNC]

Hello All,

Well, it's been a busy weekend so far. On Friday at 10 am my brother in-law and I went down to West Coast Corvette's to look at the 29 coupe with the trailer. We looked the car over and talked with the owner about it and when asked about the price, he said talk with the dealer, so that right there means it's a consignment deal, … a useless middleman to feed. The car does have a few issues with incorrect screws and some not hitting anything and fender nuts that I had to tighten up by hand while I was under the car so I mentioned it to the owner and it seemed like that went over like a lead balloon. The owner said he has owned the car for a couple of months and then proceeded to tell us about some of the mods that were made for better drivability, new parts that were added but when asked for all the receipts, he said the previous owner kept the trophies and receipts. Now the trophies I can understand, the receipts, … What would the purpose for keeping the receipts? So I told him, ... no offence, but with out the recipts, it's nothing but smoke.

I never drove the car because as I was idling, … the dealer wouldn't even budge off his price so I sensed there was no need to waste any more time so I shook both of their hands and said, … Thank you for your time anyhow and left.

From there I went an looked at Tom's car out in the city of La Verne. Boy, that was a fantastic decision. My brother in-law and I gained a wealth of knowledge from Tom in the short time we were there. Tom let us poke and prod at his 28 Blue Coupe and she looks like a car I'm going to put on the possibility list to revisit when I make my final decision. Tom even let this Model A virgin behind the wheel, … Whoo-Hoo, what fun I had. THANK YOU Tom !!!!

On Saturday, I looked at a Red and Black 31 Tudor that has been sitting in a garage for a few years. The car was professionally restored from the frame with pictures proving that. Now the shoe drop, … there is DMV train wreck that comes with it. This car is one that I'm going to have to see again tomorrow as the battery was dead (sellers, … charge them up for gosh sake's). The best thing about this one is it's only about 1.5 miles from me so going back and forth on this is not an issue as I pass by the neighborhood almost daily.

The DMV Issues, ..,

2007 North Carolina Title

2011 Nevada Plates on the car, … No Title and has been in California for 6 YEARS and never registered.

Owner is dead and the title does not have the wife on it.

Possibility of having to register it in Nevada THEN California.

Possibility of having to remove the body so Nevada AND California can see the frame number.

Assigned VIN on engine side of the right firewall that is on the NC title.

Owner (wife) flat out REFUSES to deal with anything DMV. I told her to pay someone to deal with it otherwise she's going to take a bath and she still refuses and said that she will either just not sell or will just drop the price. The classified add say's $15,000 so this might be worth finding out what the Nevada and California DMV's want and go from there.

Funny thing is she also has a 29 Chevy with equally disastrous DMV issues.

Next up, … another local car, a 30 Cabriolet I'll see if I can look at that one tomorrow.

Regards
Bill

[Railcarmover]

Avoid the car dealers,they are over priced by their commission. check with the local model a club,they get contacted all the time by folks wishing to settle estates...not only get the car you can get the stash of parts with the car and help a family move on after a loss..

[BillCNC]

Hello Railcarmover,

At this point, I'll look at everything I can get my hands on, even the junkers and the ones sitting on a dealer lot. I see it like this, the more I can see the more I can learn. This can only help me in every possible way if I'm diving into this hobby and there is no down side to it what so ever. The more I see, the more I recognize quality work from a butchers work or incorrect parts and most of all, what one should really look and drive like.

I'm not afraid to deal with a dealer, … far from it, I used to wholesale used cars to used car dealers. I know how they think and I know when I'm barking up the wrong tree. Also, if I decide to pick a car with serious DMV issues, I can have the guy's I used to wholesale with run a KSR on the car and deal with the DMV issues, they've seen them all.

As for the car at the dealer, If I really want that car, I'll need to go look at it once more and hand the OWNER a note with my number on it explaining to him to dump the consignment and deal directly with me as he is more apt to get closer to the price he wants and closer to what I want to pay, … we basically need to starve the dealer out of the deal.


Regards
Bill

Originally Posted by Railcarmover

Avoid the car dealers,they are over priced by their commission. check with the local model a club,they get contacted all the time by folks wishing to settle estates...not only get the car you can get the stash of parts with the car and help a family move on after a loss..

[Dick M]

Welcome to the Barn.
The Coupe looks nice. The paint is not a stock color combination. It will be difficult to sell as most Model Aer's want a stock color combination. I do not recall the last time I saw any coupe go for $22,000.
The Tudor is a very nice looking car. The paint combination appears to be stock. The difference in price is also attractive. $15,000 is on the high side for a Tudor, however, the car looks to be in very good condition. If the mechanicals check out it is a fair price. "Just My Opinion"
Good Luck!

[dmdeaton]

Me and the wife just got the bug a month ago and looking and learning just like you. Go look at all you can. I shied away from looking at one because of the pics in the ad and the first phone conversation. Needless to say this is the one I think we are settling on.

[Charlie Stephens]

Originally Posted by BillCNC

Hello All,

Well, it's been a busy weekend so far. On Friday at 10 am my brother in-law and I went down to West Coast Corvette's to look at the 29 coupe with the trailer. We looked the car over and talked with the owner about it and when asked about the price, he said talk with the dealer, so that right there means it's a consignment deal, … a useless middleman to feed. The car does have a few issues with incorrect screws and some not hitting anything and fender nuts that I had to tighten up by hand while I was under the car so I mentioned it to the owner and it seemed like that went over like a lead balloon. The owner said he has owned the car for a couple of months and then proceeded to tell us about some of the mods that were made for better drivability, new parts that were added but when asked for all the receipts, he said the previous owner kept the trophies and receipts. Now the trophies I can understand, the receipts, … What would the purpose for keeping the receipts? So I told him, ... no offence, but with out the recipts, it's nothing but smoke.

I never drove the car because as I was idling, … the dealer wouldn't even budge off his price so I sensed there was no need to waste any more time so I shook both of their hands and said, … Thank you for your time anyhow and left.

From there I went an looked at Tom's car out in the city of La Verne. Boy, that was a fantastic decision. My brother in-law and I gained a wealth of knowledge from Tom in the short time we were there. Tom let us poke and prod at his 28 Blue Coupe and she looks like a car I'm going to put on the possibility list to revisit when I make my final decision. Tom even let this Model A virgin behind the wheel, … Whoo-Hoo, what fun I had. THANK YOU Tom !!!!

On Saturday, I looked at a Red and Black 31 Tudor that has been sitting in a garage for a few years. The car was professionally restored from the frame with pictures proving that. Now the shoe drop, … there is DMV train wreck that comes with it. This car is one that I'm going to have to see again tomorrow as the battery was dead (sellers, … charge them up for gosh sake's). The best thing about this one is it's only about 1.5 miles from me so going back and forth on this is not an issue as I pass by the neighborhood almost daily.

The DMV Issues, ..,

2007 North Carolina Title

2011 Nevada Plates on the car, … No Title and has been in California for 6 YEARS and never registered.

Owner is dead and the title does not have the wife on it.

Possibility of having to register it in Nevada THEN California.

Possibility of having to remove the body so Nevada AND California can see the frame number.

Assigned VIN on engine side of the right firewall that is on the NC title.

Owner (wife) flat out REFUSES to deal with anything DMV. I told her to pay someone to deal with it otherwise she's going to take a bath and she still refuses and said that she will either just not sell or will just drop the price. The classified add say's $15,000 so this might be worth finding out what the Nevada and California DMV's want and go from there.

Funny thing is she also has a 29 Chevy with equally disastrous DMV issues.

Next up, … another local car, a 30 Cabriolet I'll see if I can look at that one tomorrow.

Regards
Bill

When I sold my '57 Thunderbird I kept the receipts. I was glad to show them to the new owner but I kept them. As with most collector cars I probably lost money or at best broke even. If a tax person looked at what I paid for the car and what I sold it for I would need the receipts to prove I didn't make a profit. You may not have a problem with the title. Check with the DMV but to the best of my knowledge the executer of the estate (which may even have been the wife) is authorized to sign documents in the name of the deceased. Since there is an assigned VIN from NC that matches the title with a plate from NC the California DMV might not require you to remove the body to see the number on the frame. I don't know the details but I think there is a section in the vehicle code that exempts old cars from late registration penalties. Ask the DMV, if don't like their answer (they always want to collect more money) post the question here and maybe someone knows more information. I also live in the desert, all of Southern California is a desert. There is a local event coming up in about a month that you might be interested in attending, check your PM's. You might want to add your email to your profile.

Charlie Stephens

[BillCNC]

Hi Dick,

Yes it is, $22K is high, but it does have a Mitchell A Overdrive gear splitter, ... verified as I looked, and they say is also has a Mitchell A Synchronized transmission which I cannot verify as I did not test drive the car and it doesn't list it in the description.

This is were the pack comes in making $22K closer than not. I think worth closer to $20 than $22. BTW, … the motor was cold and he reached in through the door and started her right up and she idles very smooth and is very quiet so it is on the list of possibilities. I do have to say, the car did surprise me, and aside from a few small issues, it's a solid car and whom ever did the work knows how to work on cars, maybe not A's but the work was done right. Also, … the Owner said it comes with a California car cover, … the $500 premium one and the REAL color of the car is, Champagne, not Gold. And if it is an issue, lightly scuff the clear coat and re-squirt the Champagne with a translucent color like a Kandy, … should be quite interesting to say the least.

Description:

Exterior Color: Gold/Dark Maroon Fenders
Interior: Tan
Engine: 4 Cylinder
Transmission: Manual with Overdrive Gear Splitter Transmission

This is a fully restored Briggs Bodied Model A Coupe. It is an all steel body including the fenders. The 40 Horsepower L - Head 4 cylinder engine was professionally rebuilt. The Mitchell Overdrive Gear Splitter and clutch are new. The brake system was overhauled including new brakes & drums. www.jalopyjournal.netThe 16 inch whitewall firestone tires are also new.

A few updates were added to make this Model A very driveable. The electrical system has been converted to a negative ground 12 volt system with an alternator. An Electric Windshield wiper has been installed. Turn Signals have been added. An oil filter system has been added to the engine and an " Arooga" horn completes the car.

The car comes with a matching Superior Glass Works trailer so the next owner is set to participate in Antique car caravans.

[Railcarmover]

Originally Posted by BillCNC

Hello Railcarmover,

At this point, I'll look at everything I can get my hands on, even the junkers and the ones sitting on a dealer lot. I see it like this, the more I can see the more I can learn. This can only help me in every possible way if I'm diving into this hobby and there is no down side to it what so ever. The more I see, the more I recognize quality work from a butchers work or incorrect parts and most of all, what one should really look and drive like.

I'm not afraid to deal with a dealer, … far from it, I used to wholesale used cars to used car dealers. I know how they think and I know when I'm barking up the wrong tree. Also, if I decide to pick a car with serious DMV issues, I can have the guy's I used to wholesale with run a KSR on the car and deal with the DMV issues, they've seen them all.

As for the car at the dealer, If I really want that car, I'll need to go look at it once more and hand the OWNER a note with my number on it explaining to him to dump the consignment and deal directly with me as he is more apt to get closer to the price he wants and closer to what I want to pay, … we basically need to starve the dealer out of the deal.


Regards
Bill

Go gettem Bill, the market for restored cars is all over the place...against that coupe your looking at I saw a show quality freshly restored 29 roadster go for 15k..you sound savvy,get a handle on the market and good hunting..

[BillCNC]

I will look at open cars, but I'm not sure I'll want one. The thought of having to buy new tops, the sound of the wind and the cold wet weather is not to appealing with me. But then again, … maybe I just need to get behind the wheel of one, who knows, I might change my mind. One issue we have up here in the Desert, … We get about 2 weeks of spring and about 2 weeks of fall weather. Otherwise, it's Hot in the summer and cold in the winter.

Regards
Bill

[Charlie Stephens]

Originally Posted by BillCNC

Hi Dick,

Yes it is, $22K is high, but it does have a Mitchell A Overdrive gear splitter, ... verified as I looked, and they say is also has a Mitchell A Synchronized transmission which I cannot verify as I did not test drive the car and it doesn't list it in the description.

This is were the pack comes in making $22K closer than not. I think worth closer to $20 than $22. BTW, … the motor was cold and he reached in through the door and started her right up and she idles very smooth and is very quiet so it is on the list of possibilities. I do have to say, the car did surprise me, and aside from a few small issues, it's a solid car and whom ever did the work knows how to work on cars, maybe not A's but the work was done right. Also, … the Owner said it comes with a California car cover, … the $500 premium one and the REAL color of the car is, Champagne, not Gold. And if it is an issue, lightly scuff the clear coat and re-squirt the Champagne with a translucent color like a Kandy, … should be quite interesting to say the least.

Description:

Exterior Color: Gold/Dark Maroon Fenders
Interior: Tan
Engine: 4 Cylinder
Transmission: Manual with Overdrive Gear Splitter Transmission

This is a fully restored Briggs Bodied Model A Coupe. It is an all steel body including the fenders. The 40 Horsepower L - Head 4 cylinder engine was professionally rebuilt. The Mitchell Overdrive Gear Splitter and clutch are new. The brake system was overhauled including new brakes & drums. www.jalopyjournal.netThe 16 inch whitewall firestone tires are also new.

A few updates were added to make this Model A very driveable. The electrical system has been converted to a negative ground 12 volt system with an alternator. An Electric Windshield wiper has been installed. Turn Signals have been added. An oil filter system has been added to the engine and an " Arooga" horn completes the car.

The car comes with a matching Superior Glass Works trailer so the next owner is set to participate in Antique car caravans.

When they say the engine was "professionally rebuilt" be sure to check the name of the professional. Some "professionals have and deserve a very bad reputation.

Charlie Stephens

[BillCNC]

Hey Guy's

Today I looked at another 30 Coupe and it was pretty nice. But one thing had me concerned. When I kneel down at the rear tires (both sides) and grab a wheel and rock the car from side to side, I hear clunking It sound like it's coming from the center of the rear end, or that's where the sound seemed to travel from. I'm not 100% positive it came from the center as I was on the outside rocking the car.

Any clues as to what it could be?

BTW, … I don't own a car yet, … But I did pick up the Mechanic Handbook Vol. 1 by Les Andrews, … I guess now I'm Officially financially committed.

Regards
Bill

[Michael M]

Originally Posted by BILL WILLIAMSON

Vermin, my Avatar car is for sale, along with 2 HUGE tool chests full of tools, all my heavy equipment, spares, etc. $22,000.00 CASH for the WHOLE KABOODLE !
Bill W.

I don't know much about geography, but Vermin would be worth looking at if Fresno is not too far for you. Any car owned and cared for by Bill would be a quality buy. Plus, he's including a lot of extras. And he can share his encyclopedic memory and great stories!

[BillCNC]

Originally Posted by Michael M

I don't know much about geography, but Vermin would be worth looking at if Fresno is not too far for you. Any car owned and cared for by Bill would be a quality buy. Plus, he's including a lot of extras. And he can share his encyclopedic memory and great stories!

Hi Michael,

Bill and I have chatted on the back channel a week or so back. I'm was trying to get him to send me some pictures, but he cant seem to get them on the internet. He is right around 250 miles away from me so a 500 mile blind trip is a costly one especially if I come home empty handed. However there is one in Bakersfield I probably could look at at the same time. For trips that far, … I need to bundle a few viewings in each long distance trip.

Regards
Bill

[BillCNC]

Hello All,

Well it looks like I picked up my girl, … a 1931 Model A Tudor Red / Black.

I'd like to thank everyone for their help and advice, … especially FordBarn user, 28 SC (Tom) for a ton of info I'm still trying to wrap my head around and letting me torture his gears in his Blue Coupe.

I have driven about 15 miles in her today and will put some more on her tomorrow. She seems to be a sweet lil ride but she does have a few small issues. The carburetor could probably use a rebuild, and the engine could use a tune up, and a new set of rubber all around, not immediate but soon. Also the right front drum seems to be a little out of round which makes braking a little fun and exciting. The bottom rubber piece on the window frame to body seal needs to be replaced, it has about 3 inches starting to split from the frame. Oh, … and maybe a Spindle Bolt Kit in the near future as well.

Other than that, she seems to be a winner. Ill post some more pictures tomorrow. Sorry about the Ugly mug in the car shot.

Regards
Bill

[BillCNC]

Forgot to add this, ...

The Bad, ... The front cut outs on the front fenders seems different from one another. Also the angle from the hood/frame seam to the top of the fender is steeper on the drivers side. Maybe 28-29 on one side and 30-31 on the other?


Regards
Bill

[Charlie Stephens]

When you get into your brakes be sure to contact Randy Gross, (714) 292-8660, [email protected]. I have visited his shop and was very impressed. I have never seen anything bad posted about him, only good. Check him (and any one else you choose to do major work on your car) out in the archives. If your brakes are not "mechanical brakes" please post what you have (or a picture we can use to identify them). For hydraulic brakes the "go to" place is Richard Lacy,(626) 338-2282, [email protected]. The nice thing for you is that both of these places are in Southern California.

Charlie Stephens