The rust bucket

Burkhard’s Model T has now moved from shipping container storage to his garage workshop, on borrowed wheels (his are being rebuilt). Because of course, just borrow Model T wheels. No problem! They’re actually from Francisco, who told him about using rear axle housings to keep the front end level — notice them to the left of the photo.

Model T restoration

He thought the jacket draped over the back shouldn’t be in the photo, but it struck me as perfectly symbolic: well, at least this thing has value as a coat rack!

Model T restoration

Burkhard chuckled as he lifted body panels, demonstrating how flimsy the whole thing is.

Model T restoration

I think at this point I would decide that maybe this wasn’t such a great idea. Burkhard is undeterred.

Model T restoration

The bodywork in a Ford Model T is build over wood framing. This door is mostly good, but much of the other wood in this critter is rotted or destroyed by bugs. Researching a while ago, I read that Henry Ford owned over 100,000 acres of forest land to provide wood for Model Ts. I also read that — perhaps — they cut up pallets from parts deliveries to use in Model Ts. Perhaps. Just under 15 million of these cars were produced, between October 1908 and May 1927. Insane!

Model T restoration

Here’s another view of the Tin Lizzie.

This will be interesting. Stay tuned…!

2 thoughts on “The rust bucket

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *