New guy here..my story
 

Greetings from Maine. I just signed up here as I have acquired a '29 roadster pick-up. This vehicle was being built by a dear uncle. He had just finished constructing a bed entirely from oak when he unexpectedly passed away in 1990. The car went to his son, and for the past 29 years he has s-l-o-w-l-y been doing small things to keep the project going. Unfortunately for him, he lost interest and his daughters didn't want it. Fortunately for me I was able to take ownership and dragged it home in the fall of 2019. I have been 'poking' away at it ever since and am excited to get it running this spring! My eight year old son has claimed it and even named it 'Bessie'!....:cool:

My uncle was a machinist mate 2nd class on an LST during WWII and could repair almost anything. He was a master plummer, electrician as well owning a hardware store after being a farmer following the war. He rebuilt a few airplanes during the 60's and 70's (I've ridden in both as a kid) then taught me how to rebuild my first vehicle, a 1947 Willys Jeep CJ2A. That became the start of an obsession for me as I have continued building jeeps ever since! (41 years now). He then built his first Model A during the mid-80's and scratch built a wooden body for it. It's still being used to this day by his daughter's family. The pick-up was his current build when he died.

I am trying to complete the project the way 'he' would do it. It will be a good driver, but not restored to judging standards. I will teach my son to drive with it, and use it for fun rides, local shows etc. I have bought several manuals and the 'judging standards' and am learning as I go along. (Although I am still a jeep guy, building them was not a 'challenge' anymore since that's all I had done over the years. I have diversified and along with this 'A' I have fixed up a buddy's '48 Plymouth Special Deluxe. That too has special meaning as the day after I delivered it to him, he passed away unexpectedly in Aug. 2020. (That car is back with me to finish up also.) With two pre-war John Deere 2 cyl. tractors bought at an auction this past Sept. I have plenty of projects to keep me busy for a long time. Hopefully I can learn alot from you Ford guys on this forum. The pic is my son with my cousin as I was picking up the car.

Thanks for reading!

Craig

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Welcome to Fordbarn! Looks like you have some good help! Will be a Great project!! Have fun!

Re: New guy here..my story
 

It sounds like you have a good handle on this project. Model A’s are a lot of fun, and I’m sure you will “enjoy the trip“. Plus, it’s great bonding.

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Great story! Great project! You and your son will have a lot of fun with Bessie.

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Make sure you join a Model A Club in your area. There is a fellow who calls himself "Ed in Maine" and frequents this forum. The people in your club can help you with the difficult things and help get Bessie on the road.
You may be interested to know that MAFCA is having a tour in North Conway NH in June. They are expecting quite some attendance...hopefully we will be vaccinated by then.
Be sure also to purchase the LES ANDREWS Red Book. Les is a technical expert on Model A's. Also there are many many YOUTUBE videos out there to help you. I have watched Paul Shinn and Jack Balm videos. Lastly, parts are readily available for these cars. Snyders Antique Auto, Brattons are a few. You can get any part you usually need within 3 days.
I have had my Model A since May of last year. I joined a club, made new friends, and thoroughly enjoy the hobby. Welcome to this forum and the hobby.

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Thank you all for your welcoming words. I have purchased Les Andrews book(s), Red and Blue, and watched Paul's videos on youtube. I've ordered parts from various vendors including Mikes A-fordable, Ecklers and Tams, etc. depending on parts offered/price. Tams is in Mass., so it's the closest to me as I'm in southern Maine.

Craig

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Feel free to contact the Pine Tree A's out of Kenneybunk. There is probably someone close you can contact for any information.

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Re: New guy here..my story
 

I call that refurbished.

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Indeed, welcome aboard!

Re: New guy here..my story
 

Welcome to Ford Barn! Not only do you have a great project, but you are also involving your son. That is the best way to preserve the hobby for the future. Congratulations, keep the fire burning!