29 Pickup for sale

[Grover 29A]

I am new to the forum and looking for opinions. I have a chance at a 29 pickup and was looking for opinions on value. The owner has had it since the early 80’s, drove it sparingly and has kept it has he bought it and always stored inside. This is how he bought it as a driving complete truck. Has been sitting idle for 3 years now and wants to sell. See pictures and post your thoughts. He is asking $7K.

[alexiskai]

Have you sat in one? The ‘28/29 pickups have some of the tightest cabins.

[mass A man]

First crank the engine over, in neutral, see if it's stuck. Crank should be under the seat. Looks like it "may" need a head gasket, but no big deal. Most stuck motors can be freed up OK if done right, might be a way to get some wiggle room on the price. Hopefully you're under 5'9". Seat not adjustable on the truck. My '31 is tight but I'm comfy in it OK.

[stickshift]

Previous posts are correct about being cramped inside. The truck looks original from what I can see, and in good shape. Engine is rusty but can be cleaned up. Hoses should be replaced with original type and probably the lower radiator pipe as well. If the engine is not seized, It looks like a bargain to me. If it runs, even better.

[Grover 29A]

Im 5'7" so that shouldnt be a problem. I was told the engine is not stuck, but has not tried to start it the last 3 years. Not sure if i should try to start or just make sure it turns over. The owner is a trusted friend so i dont question his info when last ran. I plan to verify the gas tank is not rusty. Would it be a good idea to do a compression check? Check for spark? The truck is about 1.5 hours from home so not sure how much i should try to do. Appreciate the comments!

[holdover]

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I have a 29 CCPU and really enjoy it. Cab is tight as others have said but with your size it should not be a problem. If you know the owner and trust him you should be good to go. Has he offered to help you get it started? A bit of new wire harness and some detailing of the engine compartment will make a big difference, and 7 K is a very fair price
if it is sound.

[Jim M]

Sounds like a good deal to me. I bought my 29 roadster that had sat in a barn in WV for 40 years for $8500 about 20 years ago. The guy was a dairy farmer and did not have the time to drive it but didn't want to sell it because it was a wedding present from his wife's father. Fast forward and my uncle knew the farmer's father and somehow got in a discussion about the old Model A and if it was for sale. That was the opening the farmer was waiting for and the rest is history. i bought it, took the oil pan off and cleaned it and put it back on with a new gasket, put new points, plugs, and battery in it and be darned if it didn't start right up. Been driving it for over 20 years and still runs like a champ.

[the cooch]

Swoop it quick, or tell me where it’s at! Just kidding, but closed cab pickups are usually in wayyyyy worse shape than that one. The price is great even if it needs major mechanical work. I guess a closer inspection could reveal poorly done repairs in the past, but it sure looks clean from the pics.
Best to sit in there though and decide if you mind the poor visibility around you. I’m not cramped in mine but it definitely takes an extra measure of observation if I’m in any traffic at all. I suppose the interior is kinda sparse, compared to other closed cars, so it’s probably a little hotter and louder than a coupe or sedan, but if you’re used to pickup trucks, it’s just a fact, not a problem. In my opinion the CCPU’s are the best looking model A, but I think you’d have to really like them to drive one regularly.
Get a battery, drain the tank, shoot some carb cleaner through it, add some fresh gas, etc. (let us know if you need a more thorough list) and see if you can get it started where it’s at. Drive it around a little bit to see how you feel in there. It will sell easily if you don’t want it so don’t stress over helping your buddy, especially if you guys get it running. Of course, if you don’t like it later I bet someone would buy it from you for the same or more once it’s just cleaned up.
Mine was a total barnyard pile so it’s still rough, but it gets even more attention than the roadster when they’re out…-Chris, in Boulder

[WHN]

With the limited pictures!

I would still buy it for $7,000.00. I don’t see how you could not make out.

[abachman3]

I, too, would say that you should buy it. It will be a great first start at owning a model A Ford. There are always things that can be tweaked to make it improved, but if it runs and stops, it will be tons of fun!

[mhsprecher]

I will agree with everyone else and vote to buy that one. If the engine isn't stuck and the gas tank is not rusty or full of crap, it looks vrey good.

I almost bought a 29 CCPU when I got out of college almost 50 years ago. I am 6'2" and I never sat in it. I guess it's good I didn't buy it, given how cramped it would have been. The owner was an old guy who used it as his daily driver and decided not to sell at the last minute. Maybe I dodged a bullet on that one.

[LeonardS]

Originally Posted by mhsprecher

I will agree with everyone else and vote to buy that one. If the engine isn't stuck and the gas tank is not rusty or full of crap, it looks vrey good.

I almost bought a 29 CCPU when I got out of college almost 50 years ago. I am 6'2" and I never sat in it. I guess it's good I didn't buy it, given how cramped it would have been. The owner was an old guy who used it as his daily driver and decided not to sell at the last minute. Maybe I dodged a bullet on that one.

I’m 6’1” and I don’t find my 28 CCPU any tighter than my 29 Business Coupe.

[Grover 29A]

Originally Posted by the cooch

Swoop it quick, or tell me where it’s at! Just kidding, but closed cab pickups are usually in wayyyyy worse shape than that one. The price is great even if it needs major mechanical work. I guess a closer inspection could reveal poorly done repairs in the past, but it sure looks clean from the pics.
Best to sit in there though and decide if you mind the poor visibility around you. I’m not cramped in mine but it definitely takes an extra measure of observation if I’m in any traffic at all. I suppose the interior is kinda sparse, compared to other closed cars, so it’s probably a little hotter and louder than a coupe or sedan, but if you’re used to pickup trucks, it’s just a fact, not a problem. In my opinion the CCPU’s are the best looking model A, but I think you’d have to really like them to drive one regularly.
Get a battery, drain the tank, shoot some carb cleaner through it, add some fresh gas, etc. (let us know if you need a more thorough list) and see if you can get it started where it’s at. Drive it around a little bit to see how you feel in there. It will sell easily if you don’t want it so don’t stress over helping your buddy, especially if you guys get it running. Of course, if you don’t like it later I bet someone would buy it from you for the same or more once it’s just cleaned up.
Mine was a total barnyard pile so it’s still rough, but it gets even more attention than the roadster when they’re out…-Chris, in Boulder

Chris, those both look really cool! Brad

[ronn]

at 7k make an offer and buy it.


you have nothing to lose at that price. just lots of fun!

[Grover 29A]

Looks like next Monday will be the day to take a ride and check it out. My biggest concern would be engine health. I'd like to do a compression check, what is a good range of psi on this type of engine? Having to replace some wiring or hoses is of no real concern for me, and the body is in pretty good shape with only some minor surface rust. My plan for this would be to just fix up what's needed and maybe some cosmetic work. No restoration, just drive and enjoy.

[ronn]

when a guy tells me he wants to do a compression check at 7k


I dont even bother to call him back. You are going to talk yourself out of fun here......


and never buy a thing. just my opinion.

[WHN]

Originally Posted by ronn

when a guy tells me he wants to do a compression check at 7k


I dont even bother to call him back. You are going to talk yourself out of fun here......


and never buy a thing. just my opinion.

For $7,000.00, you don’t need to check anything more. I would just put it on the trailer and drive away.

What more do you want for that kind of money.

RONN is right on here.

[The Master Cylinder]

Originally Posted by Grover 29A

My biggest concern would be engine health. I'd like to do a compression check, what is a good range of psi on this type of engine?

50-60 psi. The important thing would be that the are all relatively the same.

[Grover 29A]

As you can see, my inexperience with the Model A is driving my questions. I'm just thinking about things i can check out to determine if my $7K hobby could turn into a $15K hobby. I love the comments and opinions!

[jwmckenzie]

Originally Posted by Grover 29A

I'm just thinking about things i can check out to determine if my $7K hobby could turn into a $15K hobby.

Nothing wrong with that. Doing your homework is a good thing.

[WHN]

Originally Posted by Grover 29A

As you can see, my inexperience with the Model A is driving my questions. I'm just thinking about things i can check out to determine if my $7K hobby could turn into a $15K hobby. I love the comments and opinions!

You’ll be lucky if you can keep it under $15,000.00.

It all depends on how “safe” and complete you want the truck to be.

Front end, springs, shocks, brakes, tires, do the math.

There great cars.

[31Tudor]

Originally Posted by Grover 29A

As you can see, my inexperience with the Model A is driving my questions. I'm just thinking about things i can check out to determine if my $7K hobby could turn into a $15K hobby. I love the comments and opinions!

I do think it would be a good deal for that truck. I am 5'10" and 200 lbs and I can drive my 28 closed cab all day. I fit in it just fine. Your $7k purchase could easily turn into $15,000 over time. lol Leaving it as it is, just enjoying, repairing/ replacing as you go. If it needed tires, that's roughly $1000. I would definitely get it if I were you. You will have a great time with it.

[stickshift]

If you do a compression check, just make sure all spark plugs are removed so it's easier on the starter and open the throttle so the intake isn't restricted. You'll get more accurate readings. There are plenty of people on this forum who are thinking "if he doesn't but that truck, I will". 7k is a fantastic price from what we've seen.

[the cooch]

Truly, the purchase price will be just a start, but damn that’s a good start if you want to end up with a nice model A. I got lucky and scored an inexpensive complete chassis out from under a body that was going on a traditional hot rod build, and a barnyard truck that was really cheap but completely thrashed. Then I spent about what you’re looking at and countless hours just to end up with a p.o.s. compared to the restored model A’s around. I like mine scruffy, and running (thanks Brad!) but continually try to improve them and always have to spend money on them. None of us have seen the truck in question in person but obviously some people with model A experience are shocked at what you’d be getting for the price. I see model A’s for sale in excess of fifteen all the time. There will surely be some expense in its future and it depends entirely on what has already been done, could be a lot or a little. If you get it roadworthy for just the purchase price it will be a legendary tale for sure, but it’s happened. It’s easy to argue both sides but the less you can do yourself the more it will cost is a basic guideline. Do you have tools and a garage or will someone else have to work on it? Good parking spot at home at least? You know, stuff like that to consider. Really the sky’s the limit with spending on it. Maybe it’s a “futzin’ around car” (to quote Dan) and barely needs anything. Maybe everything’s been done totally half assed, and it just looks good in the pics but you have to redo everything. I’m not sure I’m helping, haha… Id just fire it up and see what it does. Good luck! -Chris

[stickshift]

Honestly Grover,
As others have said it's wise for you to be sure you are making a good investment. You should do your checks...nobody likes throwing 7k into the wind. Make sure you have the right spark plug adapter for the compression check, these are big plugs. Look for rusted through body sheet metal, especially in the bed. This is costly to repair. Use a good flashlight if you need to. Look for milky oil on the dipstick. If it all works out, we're looking forward to having a new member and helping you along the way.

[AYooperA]

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Riverside Auto Group plate in bed, Escanaba, Marquette Iron Mt. Maybe it’s a Yooper truck. Judging from pictures body looks solid. Like the commercial shell and headlamps, many like to convert to chrome to fancy it up. Pictures can be deceiving and the mechanicals can be atrocious but it sure looks like a fair shake from here. Good Luck and hope it works out for you.

[Jim M]

I think you might be in the wrong hobby if you have set a limit like that!

[old31]

I would crank it and if it turns over then pay him, trailer it home, be proud of a good truck for a good price.

Then take your time at home, change the oil, change the points, plugs, condenser. Then you can start it up, sit back and see what else it might need to get it road worthy. Does it need tires, battery, brakes etc.

Be prepared to spend at least $1,000 before you go nuts with paint, chrome, upholstery, Bertz engine.

Most important, enjoy the truck, the fix up process and the hobby.

[Grover 29A]

Originally Posted by AYooperA

Riverside Auto Group plate in bed, Escanaba, Marquette Iron Mt. Maybe it’s a Yooper truck. Judging from pictures body looks solid. Like the commercial shell and headlamps, many like to convert to chrome to fancy it up. Pictures can be deceiving and the mechanicals can be atrocious but it sure looks like a fair shake from here. Good Luck and hope it works out for you.

Yes this is a Yooper truck. Getting excited to go see it, comments are a great help. If this purchase happens, I expect to be putting money into it. I’m taking on another hobby and want to limit how much I spend on this one. I have a home shop and my brother has a lift in his shop so we would be doing most of required repairs. This truck would like great sitting next to my Fairlane! Any of you on this forum go to the car show in Iola?

[Chris in WNC]

as stated several times above, that body at that price is a deal.
free-turning engine will be a bonus.
it has the perfect look- not shiny but not ragged out.

Don't start it until you have removed and cleaned the oil pan and peeked inside the valve chamber......

[Grover 29A]

Originally Posted by Chris in WNC

as stated several times above, that body at that price is a deal.
free-turning engine will be a bonus.
it has the perfect look- not shiny but not ragged out.

Don't start it until you have removed and cleaned the oil pan and peeked inside the valve chamber......

I agree, best to inspect before trying to run. As long as it spins free, I will take advice of commenters and pay the man.

[HotRodHell]

If it was in my neck of the woods and the body is what it appears to be. It'd be mine and I already have a banger pickup I'm getting carried away with.

[Jim M]

If you't buy it I will GUARANTEE you will regret it. If I had space enough I woud buy it!!

[Grover 29A]

Well the deal was made and it’s in my possession. It was a little rougher shape than I was hoping , and the seller agreed, so the price dropped a couple grand. The body is solid, looks like the bottom of one door may have a little bondo and one small rust hole below driver door, both minor issues. My friend was happy that the goal is to just make a reliable driver, not a hot rod. I’ll have to go through everything before starting it up, he says the engine was run a little last summer, but was not driven on the road since 2020. I’ll have a lot of questions on the forum this summer when I get started!

[mhsprecher]

Congratulations!

[stickshift]

You got the price down...Bravo! We're all looking forward to your future posts, and help out a new member. Hopefully the engine just needs a little cleaning up. We'll see.

[AYooperA]

Grover,
So glad that worked out for you and you won’t regret it. Parts are easy to come by if you need them. Also great advice on this forum and may consider joining an A club in your region.

[Grover 29A]

Originally Posted by AYooperA

Grover,
So glad that worked out for you and you won’t regret it. Parts are easy to come by if you need them. Also great advice on this forum and may consider joining an A club in your region.

Is there an A club in our area?? NE WI or the UP?

[Randy in ca]

There's a few not too far away:

https://www.mafca.com/chapters/WI.html

[ronn]

great deal and if you ever tire of it, you will easily get your $ back and then some.

[AYooperA]

You could try contacting this one in DePere. Right next to GB.

[Alwaysamopar74]

What could be cooler than driving that? I'd be all over it if it was available to me.

[Grover 29A]

Is this the tillotson model X carb? First job is gas tank flush, clean the sediment bowl, and rebuild the carb.

[1955cj5]

Yes.

My ccpu came to me with one and I still use it.

There is a small filter available that fits into the fuel shutoff valve, inside the tank. a good addition if you don't already have one.


https://www.brattons.com/FUEL-TANK-F...uctinfo/13280/


.

[Grover 29A]

The engine has a rebuilt tag on it, apparently this company was bought out soon after they rebuilt this engine. Anyone else have a Nutt rebuild??