1929 Model A Blindback Steelback History

[BakesJr]

Hello, I would like to know some history and information on these cars. I have purchased one and I do not see many like this car out there, why is that and what was the idea behind this design?

 

[Steve Plucker]

There are several Model A books that talk about the passenger cars.

The Ford Model A as Henry Built it.

Original Model A Ford

The 1928-1931 Ford Assembly Plants and their Production of the Model A Ford Passenger Cars

The Legendary Model A Ford

What you have is either a 60-C (May-June 1929 thru July-Late September 1929) OR a 170-A (July 1929 thru December 1929). If the top material extends to the drip rail it is a 60-C...if not then it is a 170-A. The 170-A was longer and wider than the 60-C...the 60-C has a 4 bolt-on rectangular spare tire mount where the 170-A has a three bolt triangular mount.

The 60-C replaced the 60-A and B with leather trimming over the rear quarter.

What do you have? It appears to be a 60-C???

Pluck

 

[Dave Mellor NJ]

I was always told it was "snob" appeal. In other words, it was aimed at the well-to-do who didn't want to see the "Great Unwashed".

 

[BakesJr]

Mr. Plucker
Thanks for that info. I believe from your info it's a 60-C. The top material does extend to the drip rail. The spare tire mount mounts to the car with 4 bolts amd the tire mounts to the mount with 3 bolts.
I'm 27 years old and having a blast with this project! My goal is to keep her as original as possible, fix all the mechanical issues and drive and enjoy it. I'm very close to having her ready for this summer.
She goes by the name "Sassy", my kids named her.

 

[Steve Plucker]

BakesJr,

That is great and looks like a very sound car from the pictures but you would know better then I.

Hope you can join up with a MARC or MAFCA club near you...Lots of great guys and gals in each and the friendships and future knowledge you will obtain will last a life time.

Have fun!

Pluck

 

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

I called a Leatherback, a Blind Back & the owner got pissed! He said ONLY Steel Backs can be called a Blind Back!! "WHY" does he even care? People can be SO WEIRD!!! Does he think he has a "One Off" car? I think he has a "One Off" Brain!
Bill Normalashell

 

[jimalabam]

Bakesjr: Steve would probably prefer "Pluck" as most of his friends call him. He is a great guy, excellent Ford researcher and as you see already, a source for good Model A information.. Good buy and and good luck, and have fun as most of us do...

 

[Roadster62]

I've got a '29 60C project, good to know the 170-A back section differs. I call mine a Steelback, just sounds better than sightless. Bob

 

[tjw]

An old mate of mine in New Zealand has one that he has owned it for 50 years. It was restored once when he was about 18 years of age and has had a freshen up and a repaint about 10 years ago.