Vehicle Description
FROM THE MISSOULA AUTO MUSEUM COLLECTION Vehicle to be offered for Auction sale WITHOUT RESERVE and SOLD to the highest bidder January 19th - 22nd, 2017 at Russo and Steele's 17th Annual Scottsdale Arizona Auction at the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Please contact us for more information.
Produced over 19 years, Henry Ford's Model T revolutionized automobile production and changed daily life in America and the rest of the world. Originally priced from 600 in 1908 and available from as little as 260 by the time production ended in 1927, the Model T was truly a car for the masses with over 15 million produced in all.
While simple in outward appearance, the Model T was in fact quite sophisticated. Its startling durability was the direct result of Ford's early decision to utilize lightweight, yet strong vanadium alloy steel for many components, but the Model T's four-cylinder engine was even more impressive. With its one-piece cylinder block, detachable cylinder head, and fine-grain castings, this reliable 177 cubic-inch unit may have only produced 20 rated horsepower, but 83 pounds-feet of peak torque was available at just 900 engine revolutions, providing ample power for the primitive roads of the era.
One of the secrets to the Model T's success was its ability to be adapted to virtually any purpose, usually limited only by the owner's imagination and ingenuity. Model Ts were utilized as ambulances, fire trucks, panel trucks, depot hacks, flatbed trucks, and even farm tractors and snowmobiles when fitted with a multitude of factory and aftermarket accessories and equipment. Ford offered its own dedicated truck chassis by 1918, with the one-ton 'TT' listed for 600. However, with the simple addition of an accessory slide-in cargo bed, the basic Model T Runabout could very nicely double as a hardworking pickup truck when required.
Offered without reserve from a private collection, this 1922 Model T pickup is a great example of this important and versatile vehicle that benefits from a professional body-off restoration. The trusty engine was fully balanced for smooth operation and fitted with a higher-compression cylinder head, Aluminum intake manifold, and rod dipper. Other period upgrades include a Texas leakless water pump, Kevlar bands, a Ruckstell 2-speed rear axle, roller bearings and spool, and Rocky Mountain brakes. A brass horn and musical horn box, optional slide-in cargo box with seating and lighting, a 12-volt electrical system, and push button starter. A true best of the best example with many of the most desirable upgrades for enhanced reliability and driving enjoyment, this delightful 1922 Ford Model T is reported by the Consignor to be capable of being driven at 60 MPH as desired.
