First build 28-29 roadster..need some opinions on grille

Like to get some opinions from members on their preference between 28-29 and '32 shell. Stance is low to ground, channeled over frame. Same rubber on all 4 corners. I'm leaning to '32 but like to get some input. Know I'll have to chop the grille as well but not sure if it will look right.

I'm going to build a 8ba flathead with 3 carbs for it. This is my first build and appreciate input from those who've been there done that.

Thanks

 

I'm doing a 28/29 roadster build, too...and I'm STILL debating what shell to use. I'm considering the 30/31 because its tall like the 32, but I like the flat front and boxy look. Then again, I've put a 32 on mine and the look is so iconic. Argh! I'll be watching this thread.

 

get with the times and use one off an old tractor in the hedgerow.

 

I like the 28 or 29 Model A Truck radiator shell, the one that came painted not plated.
Its shorter than a '30-'31 Model A and the '32 shell.
If I didn't already have a '32 Rad shell for my Roadster that's the one I'd use.

 

Run model A shell. Some much cheaper especially if you plane to cut one down and paint it.

 

Like the tractor/truck ideas. I think I'll hunt one down. Thanks for the inputs. Model A version it is. I'm planning on painting vs. running bare metal so will keep you posted and add a few pictures soon when I get there.

 

I'm doing a 1928 Roadster build, and just got a 1932 Grille shell. Looks like a little fun
to get it all on there but I think it will be worth it.
Trying to get some info on the install on the H.A.M.B. but not too much luck yet.
Any body out there done this?
It's running a Model B Motor and hoping to use the stock 1929 Radiator.

 

My thoughts are, full fender I would use the model A. Fender less use the 32.
Channeled 32.

 

I vote 32 shell. The curvaceous design matches the rear deck design of the roadster, in my eye complementing the entire package.

 

On a 28-29 a Model a looks better....on a 30-31 a 32 grill looks better...my 2 cents worth

 

Thanks for input. Here's a few pictures of a mock up we did yesterday on the roadster. Grille is from earlier T but gives the idea. My 28-29 shell is on the way. Tried out a couple sets of headlamps. Going with smaller ones. Also started on 4 link. 8BA block at machine shop now.

 

i used a truck shell on my roadster, had to cut it up but it is different and i think sometimes we have to be different

 

Channeled over the frame like that needs a chopped 32 shell.


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this forum is NOT about getting "with the times" unless one means olden times. Tractor grilles are for ratty rods and other so-called vehicles that have been assembled for shock value rather than building a hot rod.

As to your choice of grilles, the 32 won't look right unless you shortn it AND narrow it proportionately. The cowl opening on 28-29s is substantially smaller in relation to 30-31-32. Use the 28-29 shell, the car will look much better.

 

Agree about the tractor grill, disagree about the narrowing of the 32. I've got one. So do a bunch of pretty sweet channeled model a's. In fact, I can't think of a channeled model a that looks good with a model a shell.




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Be different, use the 28-29 shell on the model A

 

use a 32. they are pretty.

 

How about a 33-34 grille. remember seeing one from the 70's or 80's that was cool

 

I might try both. Have a 28-29 on the way and might get a 32 and mock them both up. I'll save the extra parts for my next car. Pretty much hooked on this.

 

Bud Bryan, Detroit `72

 

Looks good like that look. Thanks for the picture.

 

Use the deuce grille - they're sweet on an open wheel rod.
JMO

 

That car is not channeled and not Z'd. If that first set of pics is your car, a deuce shell would complement it. Opinions may vary.

 

I'm with you on all counts. Except a chopped duece shell can even look damn good on a Model A WITH fenders...

 

I used a '32 shell on my channed '29 Pickup. I don't like the look of a chopped '32 shell. It took a hell of alot of work to get everything together and low enough to look "right".
You don't want the shell higher than the firewall/cowl!

 

The bare metal car in pics above is my car. Channelled and z'd. Should have a grill to work with this weekend and can finalize then. Like the '29 pickup it looks good. Agree on the stance going to keep shell a little lower than firewall/cowl for sure to rake the hood down a few degrees

 

keep it up! and remember, its your car! you desides what goes on it dare to be diferent

 

Saw a 35/36 truck grille on a 29 that was layed back...looked neat!

 

I battled that decision as well,
and ended up going with a plated 28/29 shell.

It's not on a traditional frame though.
Besides the obvious shape,
the big difference is the thickness or depth of the 2 shells.
The model a is barely 4 inches with the radiator,
but the 32 with the grille insert is like 7 inches front to back.
It changes the little things like hood, headlights etc.

Either way looks good to me.

TP

 

This looks good. I have to revise my statement. This looks real proper.