Newbie Question

D

David R.

Senior Member
Hello. I am new to the forum. I don't have a T yet, but have recently started looking for one. I have always wanted one and my youngest will soon finish college and my model T itch is getting worse.
My question is if I buy one that isn't running what is the best way to go about getting it going, or finding out engine condition? Say it has been in long term storage?
I am not afraid of complete rebuilds, I did a flat head Willys six when I was a teenager, and was a fleet mechanic for a bakery when I was 19. Just curious about how to aproach one that has been sitting without doing damage. Light oil on top of cylinders to soak awhile?
 
Yes MMO down the cyls. Change oil/fluids, then do a compression check. Oil chassis joints and springs Push it in neutral to see if the rear axle turns and brake works. Give it fresh gas and 10-30 oil, a 6v battery and give it a try. maybe try some of this before buying.
 
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First T mechanicals are not the same as normal cars. Babbitt bearings, planetary transmission, coils etc. Start by joining a Model T club if there is one near by. Most T clubs do not require you to have a T just an interest in them. Make friends with the members.
I would start by getting the best car you can afford after someone that knows the mechanical bits takes a look at it. Just because it looks great on the outside does not tell you what underneath. Decide if you want to have fun driving the car or spending years restoring it and find yourself too old to have fun with it or just loose interest part way thru the process. You should be able to get a good T in the 6000-10000$ range. It's a buyers market for the black era cars. Do not just jump on the first one you see.
For now this is a good read;
http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/29/8538.html
 
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