newbee's got a question

Dino31

Dino31

Junior Member
Hi everyone, I'm new to this site, it was recommended by Ford Truck Enthusiasts site. I just got a 31 coupe and plan on doing a frame off restoration. My question is which book or manual do you think it the best guide on disassembly? Thanks in advance.. I'm sure I'll have more questions once the fun begins :eek:
 
Hi Dino and welcome!

Are you familiar with Model A's/antiques? How is your mechanical capabilities? I am asking because if you are new I suggest that you just make her safe and drive her and get to know her. These cars are very simple but do have there quirks.

That being said, the two books you will want to get are the Service bullitons and Les Andrew's series. Those are the two big ones. Also, join a local and national clubs as they have additional info and people who know their stuff. Please post pictures and your location!

Mike
 
Dino31 said:
Hi everyone, I'm new to this site, it was recommended by Ford Truck Enthusiasts site. I just got a 31 coupe and plan on doing a frame off restoration. My question is which book or manual do you think it the best guide on disassembly? Thanks in advance.. I'm sure I'll have more questions once the fun begins :eek:
Click to expand...

Unless it's falling apart I would get it running, get it to stop and drive it awhile.

Get to know the different areas of operation. Work on it a bit. Join a club. Help others as they rebuild parts, gather the books. THEN decide if you want to to do a off frame restoration.
 
Thanks for the replies. I've done restorations before. I just finished a Ford F-1 pick up which I'm selling to fund this Model a project. It's not running, however my Dad and I restored a 30 five window when I was in high school many years ago. I'm too old to remember any details of the restoration other than the smell of paint remover! My main concern is taking something apart the wrong way and ruining it. I'll check into the books you mentioned, thanks.
 
Dino31 said:
Thanks for the replies. I've done restorations before. I just finished a Ford F-1 pick up which I'm selling to fund this Model a project. It's not running, however my Dad and I restored a 30 five window when I was in high school many years ago. I'm too old to remember any details of the restoration other than the smell of paint remover! My main concern is taking something apart the wrong way and ruining it. I'll check into the books you mentioned, thanks.
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Hey Dino,
Besides books , I'd take a LOT of photo of each step. That is, before taking apart, of cleaning/restoring of parts, etc. Also, I'd keep a note tablet with drawings/sketches..etc. Memory, even if very good, is seldom enough to carry you through, especially with lapse of time. Sometimes such endeavors take years of fun:) ! If you are fortunate to have A club members nearby ...that is a major plus, IMO. Welcome and would like to see pictures of your 'project A' ! Oh, and this site is better than any set of books, as you will find I'm sure !
 
I agree with hardtimes, the pics are everything. I took pic before, clean up, and primer. have not painted finish coat yet. It also helps when putting back togeghter if the nuts are on the inside or outside. I have pic of my truck in ever spot possible and I find that I still didn't get of ever thing. And I have taken over 600 picture, and have a lot more to take.
 
Welcome to Fordbarn! I was a member of Ford Truck Enthusiasts long before I inherited my grandfathers Model A and became a member here. My username is a holdover from FTE (I'm a Montana native and was living there at the time, would like to get back but now live in Tacoma, WA). I have not been on FTE much and spend less time on my F150 since I came here but I check in once and a while.

I would also recommend the les Andrews books (especially the red one) and the Restoration Guidelines and Judging Standards which is an EXCELLENT resource in actually SEEING how things go together, how stuff should fit, proper colors and finishes etc. Even if you're not into judging its a highly recommended resource. Another helpful thing you might consider is putting your city and state into your profile so we can see where you are - locals might come out of the woodwork also to help you with anything you need. Also join your local model A club! Its been a great experience for me and I've met a lot of good friends in the process. I have saved a ton of money and frustration by the helpful advice and assistance from my local club members.
 
I forgot something. NEVER throw anything away. If it is original then it can be rebuilt. Original is always better than reproduction.

Mike
 
Welcome, Dino as listed above-mentioned is a great start, also you might think a dumb question is not allowed here but a dumb question is better than redoing a part two or three times over !!!!!. So ask away.
 
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