• Seller: John K necht
• Location: Hubbardsville, New York
• Mileage: 100,0000 Shown
• Chassis #: 4618350
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 201 cu in Inline-Four
• Transmission: 3-Speed Manual

One of the joys of writing for Barn Finds is the eclectic mix of classics we see. This 1931 Ford Coupe fits that description, having spent part of its life as a Clown Car. The owner recently released it from long-term storage and feels the time is right for it to find a new home. The buyer could preserve this Ford as an eye-catching parade or promotional vehicle, although returning it to its original form would be straightforward. It is listed exclusively with us at Barn Finds and could be ideal for an enthusiast seeking a hands-on project candidate.

Some paint combinations are subtle and restrained, but the red and yellow gracing of this Ford’s panels isn’t in that league. It is certainly eye-catching, and the lack of significant flaws makes it ideal for preservation if the new owner pictures this classic’s future in parades or as a promotional vehicle. However, almost any change is reversible, allowing scope for this Ford to return to its factory form. The panels are exceptionally straight for a vehicle of this type and age, and its conversion to a Clown Car didn’t include sheet metal modifications. The custom fender skirts are removable, as are the sidepipes. There is no evidence of rust, which is unsurprising considering the Coupe spent years in a dry warehouse. The lack of panel repairs would allow the buyer to perform a faithful restoration by stripping away the existing paint and performing basic surface preparation before applying the factory colors. The builder coated many trim pieces with Red or Yellow, requiring a trip to the platers to return them to their original form. The wheels look good for their age, and the owner includes a new windshield still in its box.

The exterior paint combination continues inside this Ford. However, the changes are reversible and will be no more complicated than returning the exterior to its factory form. Stripping the existing paint should be easy, and the wheel’s lack of cracks is positive news. A retrim is required if the buyer follows the faithful path, but kits are readily available and affordable. What many will view as good news is that apart from the shifter knob, there are no aftermarket additions. Therefore, a faithful restoration is a realistic goal.

This Ford is a roller, requiring mechanical work before it graces our streets again. The original 201ci flathead four is included, but a previous owner dismantled it. Rebuilds aren’t complicated, and with a few subtle tweaks, it could slot back into the engine bay, producing more than the 40hp and 128 ft/lbs of torque enjoyed by the original owner. The three-speed transmission is intact, and the owner includes new brakes in the deal. As with every other aspect of this build, the work should be affordable, and a competent person could tackle most tasks in a home workshop.

The beauty of cars like this 1931 Ford Coupe is that its creators utilized simple engineering and construction techniques. Therefore, entirely dismantling this classic for a faithful restoration is a realistic DIY goal. The lack of required panel repairs will be welcome news for those not keen on cutting and welding, while the ready availability and affordability of parts means the build shouldn’t be expensive. It would be ideal for family bonding exercise, although the children might want to preserve this eye-catching color scheme! It has spent too long in storage, and I hope we have a reader willing to return this gem to its rightful place on our roads. Are you up for that challenge?