Track style or more traditional approach

Looking for opinions. I have a 23 T body a 31 grille and a 49 flathead. Want to start the buildup but dont know if I want to ditch the 31 grille and go for a track nose or keep it and go with a more traditional approach. I know its all personal preference but what do you guys think? Maybe some pics would help. Thanks everyone!

 

The December 2009 copy of Streetroder pages 54-58 had a great review of T's in different forms. I don't have the pictures but I like them both with the track T nose or a early 28-29 nose. Good luck and post some pictures of your project.

Rod

 

Track style. That is what I would do with it. They are too cool. Just my yhought but you do whatever makes you happy cause it will be your car.

 

do some research on the actual "dirt track" roadsters.... an awful lot of then ran a model-T through 32 grill shell with the front suspension infront of it....

I've always kinda wanted to have one in that style, myself.....

 

Here's my '27...

 

Post some pics of it...

I didn't know about that Street Rodder, it sounds interesting, is that issue on news stands now?

 

Track nosed cars look best when they have the engine covered.
Just adding a track nose without a hood leaves a visual with something missing.

 

That's exactly right. Form follows function. A track nose is only PART of the streamlining.

 

Personally, I think '23s look best with T radiator shells:

 

I'm gonna say track roadster. I'm kinda partial though.

Here's a thread to help you make up your mind.

http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=415809

Kevin
Ooltewah Speed Shop

 

I like the trackstyle, but as mentioned, in order to complete the picture you should run a hood and sides. They were ment to be wind cheaters.

 

Damn, I love that T.

 

Seems to me, if it has a stock type nose it would be of a modified then
a "track style" car.
Nothing wrong with modified, but it doesn't have the "race" look to them

 

I guess it really depends on the type of race car.

 

"Track T" is its functional intent, it could be high tech or traditional or whatever, right? My fave is the Rico Squaglia T.

 

Instead, I would go with a "Lakes" version.....get ahold of some Don Montgomery books and do the research. You will probably find both '32 grilles and track noses and it matters what you do with the rest of it! Give 'em hell!
E

 

Go your own way, it's your car and you are obligated to give it your own signature, but this is one fine looking T........

 

No argument from me, It's up to you and your tastes.
and yes it is a fine looking car...

 

You are wise to consider this before starting the build. To me a track nose needs to be part of a concept right from the start. The Mack T is a good example . In silhouette the car flows perfectly. As far as history goes, very few real traditional Track Roadsters actually had "track noses" .

 

Here are the two styles side by side. The model A grill shell was narrowed about 4 inches.I agree with others if your running a track nose then you need to run a full hood for the right look.

 

sota -

Two VERY nice T's. Both styles are "perfect".

 

Thanks chop&drop!

 

SOTA: Thats a coupla killer T's . What w/shield posts were used on the T w/ A grille ?
Thanks,
Stan

 

Thanks STAN!!! They are 27 Ford chop about 2 inches or so.

 

"Go with a more traditional approach"?(Para-phrased)Track T's are just as traditional.I'd say close your eyes and picture the car you want.Whatever pops into your head first is what you go with.You're the only one you have to please.

 

There's a lot of info out there, so I've learned. I came across this photo and it reminded me of your combo. Not exactly sure on the grill other than early thirties, looks like it could be Chevy. None-the-less, it's very similar.

 

That's a great looking pair, Sota; they look like brothers. Are they both yours, or were they built together? What's powering them?

 

Thanks 50Fraud!!
No I built the Mutt Special and my friend Chris Staneck built the other one. I started mine and he got to close to it and you all know what happens next!So yes they were built somewhat together.They are both powered on 2.3 Ford Ranger blocks and upgraded from there.

 

Sota- I definitely like the T with the track nose on the right. I think the lines and proportions are perfect.

Brent- That pic is great! Thats what I pictured when I said "more traditional". I really dig that early 30's lakes look!

Thanks for the replies everyone

 

Hey, Sota! Knock out roadsters! And two of 'em to boot! 'Course, I've always been a ****er for a nice pair.