Overview
Selling a 1929 Ford Model A Closed Cab Pickup. This classic truck is in fair overall condition, but has a comprehensively refreshed engine and transmission, along with modern safety upgrades, ensuring it runs and drives well. It's the perfect blend of a reliable driver for parades and car shows today, and a solid foundation for a complete body restoration for a dedicated enthusiast. This truck has current California registration and clear title.
Truck and Owner History
This Model A truck has been in my possession for 45+ years and has been garaged for that length of time. Over the years that I have owned the truck, I have made mechanical repairs and rebuilds, but bodywork and paint are from an older restoration. Recent mechanical work was the refurbishment of the engine and transmission. Hydraulic brakes and sealed beam headlights were upgraded before I owned the truck.
Detailed Description
Overall Condition:
This Model A is in fair condition, reflecting its age and history. While it has character, its core mechanicals are very good, making it a dependable vehicle suitable for general driving, local parades, and car shows as-is. It also represents a very good starting point for a full body restoration project, offering a solid all metal body and excellent running gear.
Engine & Drivetrain:
The heart of this Model A is the original-style Ford 201 cubic inch 4-cylinder engine. The Engine-ID (A256576), originally manufactured in July 1928 is probably not the original. The engine has undergone a significant refresh. This included new rings, new valve springs, new exhaust valves with all valves lapped and adjusted, head resurfacing, all new gaskets, new spark plugs and points. The babbitt bearings were inspected and found to be in very good condition, so they remain original. The engine is standard bore, so it was fully rebuilt and sleeved at some point.
The following critical components have also been rebuilt carburetor, water pump, distributor, and generator.
The 3-speed manual transmission has also been refreshed with new bearings, gaskets, and gear shift lever, ensuring smooth and reliable shifting.
This truck starts easily and offers confident, authentic driving performance, ready for the road.
Electrical and Wiring:
The electrical system is original Model A 6-volt positive ground. The dash wiring harness has been replaced, and the horn has been refurbished.
Brakes & Safety Upgrades:
For enhanced safety and modern drivability, the original mechanical brakes were upgraded to hydraulic brakes at some point. Recent brake repairs include the installation of a new master cylinder, new wheel cylinders, and new flexible brake lines.
The headlights were converted to sealed beam units for improved visibility. Please note, the electrical system remains 6-volt, so while improved, the lights are still characteristic of a vintage vehicle in terms of brightness.
Exterior:
The truck wears a green body on black fenders paint finish, which is in fair condition with noticeable chips, scratches and patina reflecting its age. The body panels and fenders are solid and all metal, providing an excellent base for restoration. The doors do have some rust areas at the bottom from past water intrusion. The classic fenders and running boards are present. The roof is in good condition with vinyl covering a wood top. The wood bed is an older replacement but is still solid. While the truck shows its age, it certainly stands out.
Interior:
The cab features an original style black vinyl bench seat that is in very good condition and black cloth covered door cards. The dashboard maintains its original layout with working gauges. The current mileage on the odometer shows (2284). The floor is clean and solid. Steering wheel is original and in good condition. The center steering wheel light switch and horn button needs to be upgraded. A separate light switch and horn button on the column have been added to control these functions.
Windows:
All the windows are in good condition with no chips or cracks. Windows roll up and down with some effort.
Chassis & Wheels:
The chassis is sturdy and straight, providing a solid foundation. It rides on classic 21-inch wire spoke wheels. The tires are Garfield brand with good drivable tread but are aged so will need to be replaced for safety.
Extras Included:
A rebuildable Model A short block, a few miscellaneous used Model A parts, hand crank, hand air pump and the following manuals: “Model A Ford Mechanics Handbook” (Les Andrews), “How to Restore Your Model A – Volumes 1, 2 & 4” - (Model A Ford Club of America).
Project Potential & Driver Ready:
This truck truly offers the best of both worlds: it's a strong running and driving vehicle right now for immediate enjoyment at events, thanks to its mechanical refresh and safety upgrades. Its good foundation and excellent running gear also make it an ideal candidate for a long-term body restoration, whether you're a seasoned Model A enthusiast or new to the world of classic car projects. Model A parts are widely available.
