1930 Fordor Wood

[shew01]

I plan to look at a 1930 Fordor today for potential purpose. The car looks like it’s in good shape, except for the roof, which will likely need to be replaced at some point. From the pictures, no water stains are on the headliner.

Is there a way to tell if the wood has rotted without taking the car apart?


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[JayJay]

Originally Posted by shew01

I plan to look at a 1930 Fordor today for potential purpose. The car looks like it’s in good shape, except for the roof, which will likely need to be replaced at some point. From the pictures, no water stains are on the headliner.

Is there a way to tell if the wood has rotted without taking the car apart?


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You can see the body cross members and the sill wood from underneath. Suggest a very thin probe to see if you can find rot. Another vulnerable place is the header, there might be a small opening at the top front of the doors you could get a probe in. Look for missing screws on the windshield hinges and the visor, those could be a clue to rotten wood underneath. Press on the top bows to see if they feel solid. Good luck, and let us know what you find.

[shew01]

Thanks for the response, JayJay. I went to see the car today. It was a good price for what it is. However, one fender is cracked, and the windshield header may be rotten. A couple of tacks were standing proud on the leading edge of the vinyl top. When I pressed them back in they seemed spongy.

I didn’t bring that car home. I’m not looking for a wood project.


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[JayJay]

You never really know what you have until you tear it down. I got real lucky on my ‘30, what minimal dicey wood I have can be corrected with epoxy.

[shew01]

Originally Posted by JayJay

You never really know what you have until you tear it down. I got real lucky on my ‘30, what minimal dicey wood I have can be corrected with epoxy.

Yeah, I was afraid I wouldn’t be that lucky. ;-)


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[gdmn852]

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Hello, I can feel your fear on the wood , I walked away from a Victoria as the door pillars were weak , and had incorrect top , it was a soft top model.

[Terry, NJ]

Originally Posted by shew01

Thanks for the response, JayJay. I went to see the car today. It was a good price for what it is. However, one fender is cracked, and the windshield header may be rotten. A couple of tacks were standing proud on the leading edge of the vinyl top. When I pressed them back in they seemed spongy.

I didn’t bring that car home. I’m not looking for a wood project.


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I have a "project" for you if anyone's interested! 1930 Town Sedan, ALL NEW WOOD! New Paint ! (The Drabs) New engine from Schwalms ! I've gone as far as I can go with this. Strokes and Heart event. Respond for more details.
Terry