The Model A was a capable successor to the Model T but had the misfortune of being launched just before the Great Depression. So, instead of selling more than 14 million copies as did the T, the A saw one-third that number. Timing is everything in the car market. This ’29 pickup was owned by the same family for at least 25 years, spending that time inside and out of the elements. While it doesn’t run (yet), it looks good for being 92 years old. Located in Troy, Michigan, the bidding here on eBay has reached $6,900.
Debuting in 1927, the Model A differed from the T in several ways, including:
- The A was longer in both wheelbase and overall length and heavier by several hundred pounds, depending on the model. At the same time, it was lower in height than the “Tin Lizzie.”
- Engine displacement grew by 24 cubic inches and to 40 hp (twice that of the T); as a result, the new car could do 65 mph rather than just 45.
- The hand crank was replaced by an electric starter and a conventional ignition. The transmission went from having two forward gears to three.
- Wheels had wooden spokes before, but now had ones made of steel. Drums brakes appeared on all four corners of the car.
Between 1927-31, Ford built 4.3 million Model As with upwards of a half-million being pickup trucks. For the 1929 model year, production was 1.7 million units before sales dived the following year. Of those, 156,000 were trucks like the seller’s edition. We’re told this truck was running when it was parked 25 years ago by the same folks he purchased it from. The motor turns easier when prompted by hand action and is full of clean oil and anti-freeze.
Other than a few small holes in the cab corners, the seller says rust is at a minimum, most of the surface variety. The interior looks good although the floors look as though they could stand a patch or two. It comes across as an easier restoration prospect or a car that could be used as-is once it’s made to run again. But the tires look as hard as rocks, so those will need to go. The seller, who’s also a dealer, is willing to deliver the car within 100 miles for an extra charge.
That’s really nice. Refreshingly free from new signwriting masquerading as old, too.
Very cool, a even $7k now.
Nice old truck
Located in Troy, Missouri – not Michigan.
Henry was a very cost sensitive guy. I have a 1929 Model AA truck. The doors were so rusted out that I replaced them with a good set off a Model T Ford. My 1 1/2 ton truck was made in March of 1929 and the long running boards are a matched set. Henry may one and used it on both sides. On one side you read the Ford logo looking forward and on the other side looking back.
Hot in the summer cold in the winter noisy top speed 45 miles a hour
day gone by
It may be old and slow, but a ’29 is timeless for the era.
The only problem with these “phone booth pickups” was there was no room between the back of the seat and the window! You would turn around to look back in reverse and bang your face on the window! Had to remember if I was in the coupe or the p/u!
all I wanted when in high school was a 34 Ford pickup. Still want one but need to finish my current projects and maybe…. the next one.
Reminds me or the truck on “The Waltons” if I remember correctly…..
The Walton’s truck was a 1929 Model AA 1 1/2 ton Express body truck.
67 years ago, I had a chance to buy a 1930 Durant coupe for $50. Pop said “No’.
A dozen or so years ago, I found one. It sits quietly in my garage.
SOLD for $9,600.