Vehicle Description
Since the earliest of time, the automotive world created enthusiast
engineers with a steadfast need to go faster, higher, and further
than before. As the "horseless carriage" became more mainstream
throughout the world in the early 1900's, finding ways to produce
more horsepower and speed was almost instantaneous! Not unlike
today, drivers enjoy the thrill of racing their automobiles at the
edge of their capabilities! The Ford Model T platform was clearly
one of the most abundant chassis available, and making one go
faster simply meant reducing weight and adding some under-hood
tweaks for more top speed. Motor clubs would challenge each other
in community racing events and hill climbs to be rewarded for both
for their speed and driving skill. These minimalist vehicles become
known as Speedsters, and they come in all varieties, with the Model
T always being a favorite for us!
We are proud to offer this beautifully crafted 1912 Model T
Speedster finished in classic White with Burgundy diamond-tufted
leather seats and matching wire wheels and accent pinstriping. It
comes very well dressed in brass appointments and built to be
driven in confidence! Under the hood is a fully rebuilt, June
1927-dated 177ci Inine 4-cylinder engine allowing for the
convenience of an electric starter, mated to a rebuilt Ford
planetary 2-speed transmission. The steel body and cowl were
assembled by Model T Speedster expert Tom Butterworth using
Rootlieb curved top fenders, running boards, splash aprons, and
Torpedo hood. Behind the two bucket seats rests a Rootlieb
Ford-script oval gas tank also painted to match. It rides on brand
new, and highly desired, Buffalo wire wheels all fitted with new
Firestone tires (5) measuring 30 x 3�" in 2021.
Driving upgrades include 12-volt negative ground generator charging
system with modern Texas T Parts distributor (T3161) with
individual coil, Texas T water pump, Brassworks flat tube radiator,
electric starter, and Holley NH carburetor. Additional features
include leather hood strap, beautiful reproduction E&J brass
headlamps with halogen bulb conversion, traditional wick side
lamps, and taillamps converted to brighter LED bulbs. It has an
original E&J brass spotlight that was converted to LED
lighting. It is a beautifully crafted Speedster with brass-trimmed
steering column, brass gear assembly with 1911 Torpedo-style
mounting assembly, monocle windshield, and brass "Fat Man" tilt
steering wheel. Additional body elements include bulb horn, solid
basket-style rear trunk, restored 1912 Stewart Model 26 gear driven
speedometer, beautifully finished wood dash and floorboards, and
Ford ammeter installed at the top of the original wooden coil
box.
While in the care of its most recent owner, it was treated to a
complete comprehensive servicing in 2021 to include radiator flush
with new hoses/clamps, new carb gaskets, new engine oil, spark
plugs/wires, brand new tires, rebuilding of the Stewart mph gauge
by Bill's Speedometer Ship in Ohio, new muffler and heat wrap,
modern lighting conversion, axle seals & grease lubrication,
transmission cover door gasket, u-joint mounting bolts, and starter
drive cover gasket. It starts with terrific ease and runs smoothly
down the road as fast as you desire! Also included in the sale will
be spare parts, tools, Buffalo wheel hex nut wrench and rear hub
puller, reproduction "instruction handbook", workshop literature,
and parts receipts. Please call with additional questions or to
schedule a chance to review it in person. A great addition to any
collection!
