Ford’s Model A – the “second” series made from 1928 through 1932 – was stupendously popular. Most of us know its genesis and evolution, but less well-known is how the intense sales success of this model as well as the Model T before it altered the Ford Motor Company. The company could barely churn out enough cars to meet demand from its Highland Park and River Rouge operations. To solve the problem, Ford began building assembly plants all over North America, and later, the world. Model As claimed space in thirty-five assembly plants throughout the US, from Portland, Oregon to Buffalo, New York, and another four in Canada. Assembly plants were built in several countries including Turkey, Chile, and Denmark. The idea was that distributing parts from the main factory to the points of sale would speed up final delivery. It worked, with Model As fanning out over the US by the millions. Interestingly, most of these plants stamped the car’s panels with an identifying mark. “AS” was Seattle; “OC” was Oklahoma City. These tell part of the story of each car. Here on eBay is a 1929 Ford Model A bid to $6,855 also with a story to tell – one we might have to guess at. This car is in Sea Cliff, New York. There is no reserve, so the final bidder will take this open cab pickup home. And all the better if you are an Uber driver because this Model A already has its sticker in place!

The seller has posted a start-up video and indicates that the car has a new fan, water pump, king pins, and a recent tune-up. The video shows the fan belt slipping so that will need attention. The battery has been changed to a twelve-volt. The motor is original, which means a 201 cu. in. four-cylinder making about 40 bhp. The transmission is a three-speed manual. Top speed is about 65 mph – not bad for the day.

The interior is groovy! I might throw that blanket covering the seats in the wash and re-glue the peeling edges of the shelf paper on the door cards. The dash is complete and the steering wheel is rust red as it should be on an early Model A. The interior, the worn wheel paint in yellow, the scruffy but bright blue paint – it’s a party on wheels – as opposed to that overdone rusty “patina” we see so often.

The undercarriage has been refurbished and looks better than its age. No sign of serious rust or accidents. Maintaining a Model A is simple. Parts and technical help are very accessible. You’ll never be lonely in a Model A. What do you think – could you see this one in your garage?