willowbilly3
Well-known member
What's a good running Gordon Smith compressor on a Model A engine worth? It's on a trailer and was supposedly used on Mt.Rushmore but there's no documentation.
Gordon Smith
- Thread starter willowbilly3
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willowbilly3
Well-known member
No, it's a different guy but I don't know how long he's had it or who had it before.
Joe K
Well-known member
Prices vary, mostly depending on the condition of the parts used to make the compressor.
Recently one sold from Harry's Antique Engine site for about $675 IIRC. One of the board membership bought it seeing my reference. This I consider a typical price.
Figure $100 for the head. $50 for the governor. $25 for the "step down" cylinder and linkage. Another $25 for other stuff like GS air cleaners that go with the head (although these are not necessary and there are better filters out there in tractorland.) And perhaps $50-100 for an air tank suitably sized. Maybe $100 for the frame and other parts. A cowl and hood for an "original" GS conversion will set you back more. And perhaps $400 for a running engine? So perhaps the range $600 to $1000 depending on condition and appointments?
There is currently an incomplete one on Ebay as parts selling for an exorbitant amount. See http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ford-Model-...Parts_Accessories&hash=item233fd14de2&vxp=mtr
But he seems open to offers?
Joe K
Recently one sold from Harry's Antique Engine site for about $675 IIRC. One of the board membership bought it seeing my reference. This I consider a typical price.
Figure $100 for the head. $50 for the governor. $25 for the "step down" cylinder and linkage. Another $25 for other stuff like GS air cleaners that go with the head (although these are not necessary and there are better filters out there in tractorland.) And perhaps $50-100 for an air tank suitably sized. Maybe $100 for the frame and other parts. A cowl and hood for an "original" GS conversion will set you back more. And perhaps $400 for a running engine? So perhaps the range $600 to $1000 depending on condition and appointments?
There is currently an incomplete one on Ebay as parts selling for an exorbitant amount. See http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ford-Model-...Parts_Accessories&hash=item233fd14de2&vxp=mtr
But he seems open to offers?
Joe K
Dick Webber
Senior Member
The Model A Restorer's Club and the Model A Ford Club of America have recognized the Smith Motor Compressor Region. The Club publishes a quarterly newsletter with wanted and for sale items, and helpful technical information. Dues are $10 per year. I purchased a rough, engine stuck, but complete unit earlier this year. Restoration in progress just a few blocks from where it was built in 1947
If you have a Gordon Smith Compressor or are interested in joining send me a PM and I will furnish contact information
If you have a Gordon Smith Compressor or are interested in joining send me a PM and I will furnish contact information
willowbilly3
Well-known member
I have a chance to buy this one. It seems more of a put together unit than a factory one like Manyoldcars is restoring and put pictures of on the HAMB. I'll get some pictures next time I go up.
Forever4, they used compressed air in the building of Mt.Rushmore. One of the main big compressors is still on sight and some of the original 3-4 inch pipe still in place. 90% of the rock removal was blasting and the rest was dressing with jack hammers. I can't find the proof that they used a Gordon Smith but they did have some gasoline powered back up units of some sort.
Forever4, they used compressed air in the building of Mt.Rushmore. One of the main big compressors is still on sight and some of the original 3-4 inch pipe still in place. 90% of the rock removal was blasting and the rest was dressing with jack hammers. I can't find the proof that they used a Gordon Smith but they did have some gasoline powered back up units of some sort.
Richard Wilson
Well-known member
Anyone interested in the Smith Motor Compressor Club that Dick Webber mentions above can contact me through fordbarn. I can send information about the club and how to join.