Model A Luggage Trunks?

HoarseWhisperer

HoarseWhisperer

Well-known member
“Original Ford Model A”, by Jim Schild lists “TRUNK” under the Dealer Options and Authorized Ford Accessories as of June 1929.
I realize that there were many aftermarket luggage trunks (metal and leather) produced to fit the Model A luggage rack, but would anyone have information as to who manufactured the “Authorized” trunks, presumably sold through dealerships?
 
The person I bought this one from is well into her 80's and claims it was put on her Dad's 28 tudor at the dealership when it was new. I believe this style was made by Kari-Keen. Rod

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Thanks for the info and photos, Rod. Are any markings readable on the locks?
I was carrying one of those large leather/vinyl repro trunks, but then opted for the low-profile metal trunk which I thought looked more authentic on the smaller Roadster. It had some minor surface rust and dents, but easily refurbished. There were no indications of the trunk manufacturer other than Eagle Lock Co. of Terryvillle, CT made the locks.
There must be some documentation somewhere regarding what trunks Henry authorized the dealers to sell........:confused:
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Actually, I prefer the appearance of a trunkless Roadster, but where else would I carry my tools, spare parts and beer?
 
I have not looked closely at the lock, but will do so this weekend. When I go after the tudor body later this year there is another trunk on that homestead. I may try to buy it also. Several scattered parts, but also alot of rattle snakes, so likely be Sept. before I attempt it. Rod
 
There was a Model 'A' Club on the 'Old' Barn' that had complete instructions on how to build a proper trunk...it was a favorite till my confusser took a dump. Now I can't find it anymore,
Anyone?

skip.
 
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This is for EARLE
Earle, if you ever find keys for your M1 AUTO LOCKS on your metal trunk, at least you'll know how to operate it. :D

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HoarseWhisperer said:
This is for EARLE
Earle, if you ever find keys for your M1 AUTO LOCKS on your metal trunk, at least you'll know how to operate it. :D

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I am currently restoring an all metal trunk with MIautoLock hardware. I recently saw a fabric covered trunk at a swap meet with the same hardware. They have a split core with no tumblers. The split prevents a screw driver from opening them. Nice thing is they operate with Model A ignition keys. Any chance of getting a quality scan of this tag.
 
Jerry Parr WI said:
I am currently restoring an all metal trunk with MIautoLock hardware. I recently saw a fabric covered trunk at a swap meet with the same hardware. They have a split core with no tumblers. The split prevents a screw driver from opening them. Nice thing is they operate with Model A ignition keys. Any chance of getting a quality scan of this tag.
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Jerry,
Don't know if a better scan is available somewhere in cyberspace. I found that photo at a closed auction: http://www.icollector.com/MI-Auto-Lock-Antique-Car-Luggage-Trunk_i7287479

Here are some close-up of the Eagle Locks on my metal trunk. Found a locksmith in Milwaukee that had original keys for it.

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have one like Rowdy's...all metal - very heavy...not as nice - taken it to many a swap meet and tried to get $45 bucks for it...drug it out for this years Pate Swap meet...decided not to load it up...got it from an old A - restorers estate who had passed.....
 
HoarseWhisperer said:
Jerry,
Don't know if a better scan is available somewhere in cyberspace. I found that photo at a closed auction: http://www.icollector.com/MI-Auto-Lock-Antique-Car-Luggage-Trunk_i7287479

Here are some close-up of the Eagle Locks on my metal trunk. Found a locksmith in Milwaukee that had original keys for it.

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Thank you. I did copy the other side also. I believe these companies only made hardware not complete trunks. Thought a repro tag would be a nice touch on the trunk. I never looked for an original key after I discovered a model A ignition key works. Wonder if Briggs made the originals.
 
I know the felling. We have had the full set up to several swap meets including Chickasha this spring. I do not think we will be carting it around to any more. Dad payed $65 for the trunk and I purchsed the mounts with a complete left side from a 28 tudor for $125. I used the lower qarter and door for the delivery. Sold the upper quarter for $95, and my old door from the delivery for $85. I gave the mounts to Dad and he has decided to put that set up for later use ans he could not come out ahead on them at this time. Rod
 
skip said:
There was a Model 'A' Club on the 'Old' Barn' that had complete instructions on how to build a proper trunk...it was a favorite till my confusser took a dump. Now I can't find it anymore,
Anyone?

skip.
Click to expand...
It was the Tokay A's but I dont think they have their web site anymore. There is also directions with pictures on how to build a model A trunk in the How to Restore Your Model A Vol 7 from MAFCA
 
Dear Rowdy,
Yes what you have is a Kari-Keen. Getting the trunk is the easy part. Getting all the brackets is the tough part. Brackets vary thru the years and also by 28-29 and 30-31. I am putting one together right now for my Fordor and it took me a long time to find all the brackets.
Bud
 
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