Ford Motor Company introduced its all new Model A for 1928. Eight
different passenger bodies were available, ranging from the basic
$480 roadster convertible to the $585 Fordor enclosed sedan. The
Model A's nickel radiator shell and full crown fenders gave it a
sophisticated look inspired by Lincoln.
For auction, a 1931 Ford Model A Fordor sedan in barn find
condition showing 75,394 miles, but the true miles are unknown. A
bit dusty, rusty and replete with paint issues, this one has good
bones and would be a decent candidate for an ambitious
restoration.
Exterior
We're thinking the black vinyl top which waterfalls down to cover
the C-pillar and rear window, has been replaced at some point
because other than some dirt, it's in fine condition. The body of
this stately and upright four door is chipping all around and there
are areas where surface rust has made itself known. There are five
21-inch wire wheels in total and they're in decent shape, but the
tires are dry rotted. Bumpers, horn, light bar and lights, door
handles, side mirrors, and single tail light are all in place but
will need some polishing or replating to return to their former
glory. A Messko motometer tops the oxidized radiator shell and
green paint is seen wherever the black is peeling, and that's over
much of the car. One rear fender is falling apart from rust and in
general, the rockers, fenders, and rear apron are heavily pitted
with advanced surface rust. All that said, there are no large dents
in the panels; it's a fairly straight car!
Interior
Original broadcloth still clings to the rear doors but it is
stained and torn while the front doors have smooth, mottled brown
vinyl attached and while not particularly period, at least they
appear clean and mostly intact. Moving inside, the red vinyl
covered shell of the front bench is heavily frayed and torn, while
the black vinyl tufted seat is in aged but decent condition with
some crude stitching on the top frame to keep it together. The back
seat is the same material and will likely clean up nicely. A four
spoke steering wheel fronts your basic Model A dash with center
instrument cluster, all showing some age as is the rubberized floor
covering from which the shifter and handbrake rise. Overhead, the
cloth headliner and sidewalls are barely hanging on and the
windlace is also a bit tattered.
Drivetrain
Behind the engine cover is a 201ci inline four cylinder rated at 40
horsepower and fed fuel via a 1-barrel carburetor. It's backed by a
3-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear axle and
3.78 gears. The engine bay has plenty of patina and surface rust on
the block.
Undercarriage
Lots of surface rust down here but we don't see any of the invasive
stuff. A single exhaust carries a stock style muffler, mechanical
drum brakes are on all four wheels, and transverse leaf springs are
supplied front and rear.
Drive-Ability
The car has keys but is not drivable.
This is the dream barn find that's not too far gone, even if you
run through a few wire wheels to get it right! If you squint, you
can see the former majesty of this American icon shine through.
Grab a couple vats of elbow grease and get to work!
Sale conducted by Geyer Auction Companies Pennsylvania license
number AY-000243-L
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