Ford Model A’s are not that unusual, there were about 4.8 million built between 1928 and 1931. Usually, though, it’s the sedans, coupes, and convertibles that are regularly encountered. But here’s a different twist, a Model A delivery van, located in Union, Illinois and available here on BF Classifieds for an opening bid of $3,000.
This Model A is a Wisconsin barn find and the seller says it is untouched, nothing has been removed from the inside as there may be usable or necessary parts present. It pretty much looks like this Ford missed its last delivery because there is a lot of stuff in the back. The interior of one of these is a spartan affair anyway, so once the detritus is removed, a clear image of what’s there and what may be needed will emerge. Unfortunately, the canvas roof panel and the supporting frame have given it up so that will need early attention. The listing contains many good images, be sure to review them all.
Pretty much the same case in the driver compartment as in the cargo area, it would appear to be all there but it will need a lot of sorting out. The seller clearly states that this Model A will need a complete restoration but seems complete otherwise.
When I first spied this Ford van, I thought of an older gentleman that I knew when I was a boy, he had a 1927 Dodge delivery van that had been converted into a mail truck. I would run errands with him and I vividly recall stopping to get gas one day and I had to hop out because the gas tank was under the front seat and the cushion needed to be pulled up to access it. Funny how you recall events like that. While not in the condition of that Dodge (and that was over 50 years ago) this Model A’s bodywork is pretty straight as found; the faded business name on the doors just adds to the allure – makes you wonder what the business was and how this Ford served it. There are some bumps and bruises but nothing that looks like it would constitute major metalwork. The rear door doesn’t look as if it fits properly and there are exposed rivets along the opening edge so perhaps there has been a modification of some sort imposed upon it.
Under the hood is a four-cylinder, in-line, flat-head engine of 201 CI displacement, developing 40 HP and backed up by a three-speed manual transmission. No word regarding, but I imagine it is a non-starter/runner. The good news is that it is a very common, simple engine so, assuming it’s necessary, it could be rebuilt or replaced with a modicum of effort. And I’m sure there are other ideas that potential buyers would have regarding how to power this Model A…….
So, the moment of truth, what would you do with this Ford? The seller says, “Great for restoration or rat rod.” Somehow, a Model A coupe or two-door sedan seems more inclined for the rat-rod route. I’d like to see this Ford delivery van returned to a state of originality but maybe trying to preserve some of its exterior charm at the same time. How about you, what course would you take? There are endless possibilities here.
A rare beast compared to the other body styles that were available. I wouldn’t turn this down if it showed up at my place. I’d go ahead and give it the full restoration. I would maybe upgrade the engine to a balanced crankshaft and maybe even go to a B engine with full oil pressure and automatic advance. The B was an extra 10 hp and it needed all it could get. The van body would get the restoration treatment and the car would be driven just like it was 89 years ago. They say good things never last. Well, this might be the exception.
This would be fun. Upgrade to a B engine or at least a period higher compression head. Plumb it for hydraulic brakes. Refurbishment of the roof is straight forward as parts, materials and expertise are readily available..You could clean it up enough to enjoy the genuine Model A experience or you could rod it to whatever extent you wish. There are plenty of good examples out there for inspiration. The less is more approach would be my choice.
As featured in “A Plumbing We Will Go” and many other Three Stooges flicks. Fix ‘er up, and go deliver packages for Amazon.
A great looking vehicle even the way it is. I like the roof rack.
The door says Waukegan, which is a city in IL just north of where I live. So this truck has been in IL for 89 years and is not that rusty considering!
I’d love to paint it like the Three Stooges fish wagon
Would love to have the time to grab this one and do something with it. Got a friend up the road who specializes in the A engines. Wife thinks it’s a hoot. Hope someone follows the first two comments.
While here… be careful, be considerate, and be safe.
Bob
I bought a “31” sedan delivery up in the Colorado Rockies 49 years ago in the dead of winter. It was located beside a loafing shed for cattle on the side of a hill. I went out with a friend in 12 below zero weather to retrieve it, ice from water flowing down the side of the mountain had froze between the spokes on the rear wheels as high as the bottom of the rear end. I started chipping away at it and as I did a pretty good size chunk of ice broke loose and there in front of me was 3 sticks of dynamite and some of the glycerin was creeping out of it. I had just returned from Vietnam as an EOD man so I knew what I was looking at. Somebody had probably been blasting stumps, had some sticks left, set them out of the sun and forgot them. Told my friend to get about 50 yards away while I peeled ice as I wasn’t going to leave without it. Laid them up next to the building and hooked up. We towed that 9 miles back to town in those temps but the worst part was getting there. I drove the A while my friend towed with the Jeep. About 3-4 miles down the road the top partially gave up the ghost and the wind peeled back the front of it letting nice cool air in. Couldn’t signal him to stop but when we got back to town it was close to having to peel my little fingers from the steering wheel. Price…50 bucks, another story………….
What a time capsule..
Love all the “repairs” made over the years to keep this on the road. I especially like the plug wires. Would love to have it.
Thinking a flathead V-8 would do the trick for me. Make it roadworthy and go have some fun!
I feel very fortunate then. I have a 31 Sedan Delivery also that has been sitting the last 30 years but mine does run. Hopefully will be able to get it up and driving soon. Plan so far is hydraulic brakes with 90 fin Buick drums, 32 front axle, Armstrong shocks and 40 Ford Artillery wheels.