Model T as a daily driver

[bdtutton]

Hello,
I have a 1930 model A Tudor that I drive 9 miles each way to work when it is not raining or snowing. Even though it is 6v and has no heater I have driven it to work many times when it was only 15 degrees outside. Because I drive it so much I spend a ton of time doing maintenance and I think that is the reason the car has given me few problems and has never stranded me.

I have been looking at some 1915 Model T's and was wondering if everything was mechanically sound on the car and it was maintained on a weekly basis, would it possible to use as a daily driver? The route is 9 miles each way with only four stop signs, two traffic lights and not too many potholes. The traffic is light and the speed limit is 25-45 mph...but people don't mind you driving 35 mph. I have driven my model A 35 mph on the route just to see how people would react.

What do you think? Would a Model T hold up to daily use? I hear they run them all day every day at the museum in Dearborn.

[J Franklin]

Model T Fords drove everywhere when they were new so if you build it as new it should be reliable as well.

[mhsprecher]

I would worry most about stopping if you need to in a hurry. Make sure you can do that. You don't want to rear end someone or run over a dog or a person.

[redmodelt]

Keep driving your Model A. In this day and age T's are not a good match for everyday driving, maybe once a week might be fine.

[daveymc29]

I have a friend who had a 14 phaeton beck when the limits were 55. He had Rocky Mountain brakes and a Ruxell (sp) overdrive and had driven it from CA to the tip of Maine and came down the eastern seaboard. He sold it as "unsafe" when the speeds were lifted back above 55. He was able to cruise at 45 and that speed he could have the top down, fold the top half of the windshield and even wear a cowboy hat for shade all day. Maintenance was done every night before they turned in for the night. I didn't take long, but it had to be done religiously to remain reliable. He had no issues on the trip and got it back to CA in the same shape it left. So what? So, I wouldn't hesitate to drive one 9 miles on a road I know and where in short order everyone that uses that road will know when you're going to be out there. Enjoy, I have never owned a T, but if I do it will be a Brass T.

[jboggess]

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I've taken my 13 T on many tours where we drove 80 miles a day. They will run all day at 35 mph if the roads allow it. Get one! They are fun!

[Royce P]

Sure why not? The Model T is simpler and more reliable than a Model A. There are period correct heaters available that will be better than nothing when it is cold. The main things any Model T needs are good sound wheels, a good radiator, and good tires. Typically every T I buy needs all three to be replaced.

Originally Posted by bdtutton

Hello,
I have a 1930 model A Tudor that I drive 9 miles each way to work when it is not raining or snowing. Even though it is 6v and has no heater I have driven it to work many times when it was only 15 degrees outside. Because I drive it so much I spend a ton of time doing maintenance and I think that is the reason the car has given me few problems and has never stranded me.

I have been looking at some 1915 Model T's and was wondering if everything was mechanically sound on the car and it was maintained on a weekly basis, would it possible to use as a daily driver? The route is 9 miles each way with only four stop signs, two traffic lights and not too many potholes. The traffic is light and the speed limit is 25-45 mph...but people don't mind you driving 35 mph. I have driven my model A 35 mph on the route just to see how people would react.

What do you think? Would a Model T hold up to daily use? I hear they run them all day every day at the museum in Dearborn.

[Gary loves Fords]

I have both a 1909 and a 1927 Model T. They both are touring cars, so cold weather bothers me. I tour extensively with both cars and some days the tours are over 100 miles. Just keep checking the coolant, tire pressure and oil. Carry a few extra parts like fan belt, spark plugs, carb gaskets and go for it. If my bum back would allow me to, Id drive my T's across the country tomorrow. Go for it. During the summer months I use my T's like daily drivers, pulling in to the drive up teller at the bank and grocery shopping. Just be prepared to answer a million questions. I love the attention and most of all I'm addicted to driving them. Gary

[Olon1974]

I see an old ford from time to time on my way to work and I used to wonder who is that daredevil. It can't be you since Michigan is too far but I think we've got your soulmate here

[Dodge]

I think the with the way your going to drive it you’ll be fine. The T’s do need more maintance than a Model A. When on a club tour we also go at least 100 miles in a day
so when the tour is over I always give it the once over looking at every thing and give it a
“Nut and bolt” (put a wrench on everything and make sure it’s still tight) and give a little squirt of oil and a shot of grease where ever it needs it.
You might think about transmission band choice using something like Kevlar bands to make them hold up longer.
Enjoy

[15max]

I drive T's several times a week. I drove my A daily when I had it. Your traffic would be a consideration. The T will not have the pickup and speed the A would. Several friends who drive A's did not like their T's as well. If you keep up the maintenance like you did the A the T should perform as well. I see no reason the T couldn't be as enjoyable but opinion vary.

[Bulligen]

I drove a 27 T roadster to high school in the early 70s, It was my only car. I was just careful, It did fine!

[CharlieB]

Sorry but Redmodelt has it right. There's a world of difference between the T and the A. The T is basically a wagon with a motor in it and the A is an automobile.

[dumb person]

I dailyed (Dailied?) a T. In a small town it's fine. In a city with gridlock traffic it's still fine, because it's one of the faster cars when compared to people sitting in traffic texting (ok it's not perfect because they don't like sitting in gridlock)
Only where people drive fast & pass recklessly is a T a problem.

[J Franklin]

The T would not be the problem in that last scenario. It would be the careless speeders, a problem for us all!

[Alaska Mike]

I would add rear end Babbitt to the checklist of items to be replaced.

[nhusa]

CharlieB is right!
A T is a wagon with a motor an A is an automobile.
I usually say that a T is a horseless carriage and an A is an antique car.
Either way they are very different

[Scottio57]

My two cents is absolutely you can use your T as a dd in the that scenario. If you check out the mtfca forum you will find several folks that use their T as dd. I use mine more than any other vehicle I have. I just sold my A for several reasons but one is because I just never used it. My T is my go to vehicle when I go anywhere in town. The speed limits here are a little higher than what you described and I have not had a problem yet. 6 miles of city like driving each way to work and back. It’s a blast to drive.

[redmodelt]

Also comes down to insurance and what your state will allow, Re how it is licensed. Driving it once in a while is one thing but everyday, in traffic. I stand by what I said in the first place, not for everyday.
By the way, the person that asked the question, has never been back to post a reply.
I just looked and this was his last post and it was on from March 31. Hope he ok.

[Scottio57]

Oh yeah. Your right red. Here in Ca. You cannot use horseless carriage plates for dd but you can use yom or current issue license plates. I declare realistic mileage to my insurance co.

[jboggess]

Some T owners are comfortable driving a T in traffic, and some are not. Its your car, you know how it drives and what its capable of. You know your roads and traffic. Ive been yet to be pulled over in a Model T or any old car for any reason but if i ever did at least i could say i have been. In the end its your car, drive it how ever you want to.

[V12Bill]

Antique tags in my state prohibit daily driving to work as does my insurance company.

[J Franklin]

Originally Posted by V12Bill

Antique tags in my state prohibit daily driving to work as does my insurance company.

That is why the charges for those items are lower, it is still your choice.

[Gary loves Fords]

I tour with my 1909 and 1927 Model T's. On average we cover over 100 miles in a day. If you keep checking the oil, coolant, tire pressure and gas supply they are as reliable as a Model A, just not as fast. 35 to 40 MPH all day long is no big deal for a Model T Ford. Besides, they are a blast to drive.

[Gary loves Fords]

If you get a plate that is the same year as you car and leave it in its original color, you can drive it as a daily driver, instead of a historical plate that they don't want you driving daily.

[McMimmcs]

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Your safety and the safety of others is the prime consideration. When they were daily drivers in the teens all cars drove to the prevailing conditions. Today you will be the least safest car on the road. Is it worth it and bottom line is why do you want to do it? Is it strictly financial?

[39portlander]

Well nothing like bringing up a good debate from the past, I wonder if he has been driving a T as a daily driver? Well since were on the topic....

Drive it, model A,T or flathead ford. Did you spend all that time and labor/parts to let it collect dust in your garage? It's finally spring get it out there and use it.

It might be a horseless carriage with a motor but millions before us drove them from point A to point B then why not now, thats what the darned thing was made for.

You know your roads and traffic, pick your routes accordingly during the work week when that ever happens and go for it

Is it worth it, if you actually had one and new how to drive one that wouldn't even be a question.

Neighbor: hey Jim don't you have a real nice brass model T.

Jim: As a matter of fact I do, just put another thousand dollars in parts/shipping and my labor fixing it up over the winter.

Neighbor: Dang Jim why don't you take that T out more, drive it to work a few times during the week the weather is great!

Jim: Awe man I can't it's the least safest car on the road and oh boy the "safety" aspect is concerning, yeah I'm actually scared of it because some people think its not safe to drive. What a dilemma.

Makes total sense Stay safe, keep your social distance and drive your Model T fellas!!

[McMimmcs]

Get it in writing from your insurance company that you are covered as a daily driver and to and from work. If not you can have a claim disallowed and lose your life savings. Get it in writing from the state that your plates allow daily driver and to and from work.
Haggerty does not allow either one for sure !

[J Franklin]

Had a horse once that fought going where it didn't want to go and would rear up and balk kinda like some model T Fords. Well I was never concerned much until everybody told me how I would surely get killed. Heck the Lone Ranger had a horse do that every episode and he never got mashed! Drive your T but do find out if the license and insurance you bought allows everyday driving.

[Aarongriffey]

Yes, you’re right Red. And the guy with the 14 touring had a Ruckstell which is an under drive. That makes the car easier to stop at city speeds, it’s like running along in second gear, if a T had one.
What I found right away was that people will pull out right in front of you and you don’t always have enough space to stop. Too many times I’ve had to lock up the rear wheels. You just have to drive with that in mind.
It goes without saying that outside brakes are a must. Putting the tools and extra parts under the rear seat instead o f the front seat also helps. A T will stop shorter with two people in the rear seat than without. Fresh tires also help.

[McMimmcs]

Life is fragile and precious. I would never forgive the fool that injured or killed my relatives because he decided to drive a 100 year old car that was not safe on today's roads. Whether it's done for show or out of financial necessity there is no justification. If I have offended someone it was not intentional but I had a brother killed by a moron driving an unsafe vehicle. There is no excuse for stupidity !

[J Franklin]

It should be very hard to kill someone driving a modern car with a lightweight slow Model T if it is in good restored condition. A pedestrian can be killed by a bicycle or moped.

[39portlander]

So.... this almost two year old thread has made me realize two things, we still do not know if the fella who started this conversation is actually driving a model T as a daily driver and that those of us who own and drive a model T are "stupid" for doing so

We are truly sorry for your loss, however questioning our intellect is your own personal problem and please seek professional help.

This Fordbarn is for those of us who own, drive and try to service Ford vehicles and no where in this post or website has any one desired to operate a vehicle that was unsafe. Opinions may vary with knowledge and driving skill.

So Mr. unhappy in and around Dollywood Tennessee I would direct your concerns to the MTFCA executive board, staff and editor you might learn something about a Model T.

Seeing that you have issues with 100 year old vehicle and decided to lecture us on the model T forum, contact the Smoky Mountain T's MTFCA chapter. I'm sure you will get a very warm welcome there as well Adios Amigo!

[McMimmcs]

If you read his other post he says he knows it's not safe. Possibly you should read it amigo and apologize !

[J Franklin]

Originally Posted by McMimmcs

If you read his other post he says he knows it's not safe. Possibly you should read it amigo and apologize !

If he is driving an unsafe car, he needs to park it!

[juanvaldez]

Nothing is safe! Around 40,000 folks died on America's highways last year and I am guessing a Model T was not involved in any of them. I have a Lotus 7 as a daily driver, it ain't safe.

[J Franklin]

Here is your daily driver, take some notes!

https://youtu.be/Qj5ABgjuK2c

[juanvaldez]

Inspirational!

[RobK]

If you feel that one hundred year old cars are unsafe to drive on todays roads, why are you on this forum?

[JoeBauer]

Safety is relative.

A Model T is not as safe as a modern car that has air bags, seatbelts, structural body strength, anti-lock braking, etc. etc. Neither is a motorcycle. Safety is up to the driver, how well he knows his vehicle, how he drives, which roads he picks, and how good his maintenance is.

There are some roads a T should not be driven on, there is some weather a T should not be driven in, and some rush hour traffic should not be driven in.

And there are upgrades that can make a T much safer like auxiliary braking, lighting, Ruckstells, and high compression heads.

Most of my driving within 15 miles of home is in a T or TT. Suburban and city driving is the best, winding country roads with hills and no shoulders are to be avoided. Rush hour is bad news and I watch the weather report closely.


I consider a properly maintained and driven T safer than a motorcycle, but no where near as safe as a modern car.

[bdtutton]

I started this thread a couple of years ago and had not looked at it in a while. There are a lot of comments, but they all seem to agree that the Model T can be a reliable car if it is well maintained, but it is slow and unsafe and should only be driven in rural areas where the traffic is light and the speed limits are slow. I like the comment that the Model T is a wagon with an engine and the Model A is more like a modern car.
...
For now I have a modern car I drive when I have to travel very far or the weather is bad, but when the weather is clear and there is no salt on the roads I like to drive my 1930 Tudor to work and to the store. I found the biggest problem getting around is not the Model A, but the other drivers. People do not understand hand signals or the limitations of an older car. The car looks stock, but it has a lot of modifications to make it fit into modern traffic...
...
Here is what has been done to my Model A....LED headlights, LED taillights, LED turn signals, LED brake light in the rear window. It also has shock absorbers, the new Coker radial white wall tires and even retractable 3 point seat belts...and a manifold heater so I don't freeze.
...
I think for now I will stick with my Model A, but will still plan to get a Model T after my son graduates from college and i convince my wife I need one.... :-) But, when I get a Model T I plan to upgrade the lights and the brakes.

[JoeBauer]

And a good thread it is!

I would disagree with, " should only be driven in rural areas where the traffic is light and the speed limits are slow." Here in central VA rural areas tend to have dangerous roads with high speed limits and are the most dangerous place to drive. Suburban roads, subdivisions, and city driving are the safest. They are also not as boring!

[dumb person]

I can drive in rush hour traffic.
Because nobody is rushing. It's faster to get out & walk at times.

[39portlander]

Thanks for getting back here on Fordbarn with an update and hope you get a T soon, there are plenty out there.

It's a great topic with reasonable people replying and understanding that a Model T safety inspection form from the MTFCA is available and having the vehicle pass muster on this form keeps it ready for the road, period.

The key phrase and word here is "reasonable people" and "understanding"

[stivemorgan]

Honestly I thought that cars such as Model T should stay in garage like some museum exhibits. Well it is probably great to ride it like everyday car.

[Gary loves Fords]

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I have a 1909 and a 1927 Model T and tour with them all the time. We average over 100 miles a day. As long as you maintain them, tighten the lug nuts, make sure you have enough oil and coolant, they will travel every bit as far as a model A, ,only not quite as fast.