Low budget model a roadster build questions

I'm building a low budget 31 model a roadster . My first model a .So I started this thread to ask questions as I go. So far I have taken what there was of the body off to verify the serial no. And box the frame. Front and rear axles are stock for now my first question is what do I need to find to convert the front axle to juice brakes using the stock spindle?

 

You need a ring, looks like a piston ring to adapt 40--48 backing plates to your spindles, ***uming that is what you are planning on using. The reason of course is the hole in the backing plate is a little bigger than the spindle. They're offered by Speedway I think as well as a couple other places. Then you will need all the other stuff: drums,shoes,cylinders etc. etc. Tim

 

Thanks. Also as I'm building most of my body by had can anybody tell me how wide a roadster door is?

 

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They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

HI what year are you going to build ?? 1928-29 or 1930-31 style ??

later kb

 

It's a 31


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

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They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Bump again


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

I'm looking to run a 305sbc and wonder what would be my best choice for transmission th350,700r4,? I've never used a 700r4 so is there any electric hookups to be concerned with?


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

305 SBC is not a high performance engine. If you use one I would suggest a TH350. They are a good match and bang for the buck. If you upgrade engine later it will still be a good trans

Joe

 

No but I don't need a high performance setup just a real nice runner on a low budget so I think a 305 with a th350 and 3:42 gears should do it . If I can find them cheap. What do you think?


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Any small block Chevy will scoot your lightweight Model A along just fine. The TH350 is a good choice, but you might want to look into a 700R4 to get the extra overdrive gear...especially if you have your heart set on a 3.48:1 final drive.

If you've never built a Model A hot rod before I'd suggest you do not deviate very far from a very conventional ch***is using transverse leaf springs front and rear and radius rods on both ends and a Ford F100 steering box with drag link. The powertrain you've already selected will go with these parts just fine.

You won't be on the cutting edge of technology with this setup, but you'll be right in the heart of traditional hot rod territory. Good luck!

 

Anybody know of a way to do disc brakes with my stock spindles?


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Bump


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Bump again


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Guess not


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

There's a post on "parts for sale" by "Verminator" in N.Y.- '51 dressed and re-built six cylinder with a 3 spd ****** and rear end for a thousand bucks. Neat motor with dual Fenton headers, dual carb intake , a Wayne aluminum valve cover.Trick set up for an "A"; plug and play. I've been eye-balling it for awhile, but it's a long haul and I don't really need it.Sounds like a good fit for your project- Check it out. Good luck with it

 

Can anybody tell me how to separate the torc tube and shaft from the rear end ?


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Bump


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

I've just discovered the front axle is bent . What is the best way to straighten it or do I have to get a new one?


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Can you post pictures of the bent axle?

 

You need the Les Andrews books!!! Step by step "how to" on converting to 40's Ford juice. You need two of his books, stock and modifying.

 

Check out my build thread for pics of the puller you will need. Got mine of EBay but all the parts suppliers have them.

Basically on the A rear the drive shaft and pinion ***embly are pressed in to the center section, you will need a puller for this. The drive shaft tube can be unbolted at the pinion flange and should slide off. At least mine did. I think there is supposed to be a c clip in there that holds the drive shaft gear

 

Thanks guys but I found a good straight axle locally cheap so it seemed like a no brainier to me


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Just checked my gas tank in the cowl today and I can't believe it holds. I do want to replace the fuel gauge with a sending unit . Does anybody sell one for this?


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Here's a tip: You'll get much better respnse to your questions if you accompany them with photos. The new format makes them very simple to post. Start with a few photos of your project...even if it's still in pieces.

 

OK here is the start


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Ok time for my next question what are you guys finding that fits for a seat in a roadster ? I don't have a stock seat and would prefer a bench seat of some sort.


They told me it couldn't be done... So I'll try it.

 

Im pretty sure that the 3rd row seat out of a early 90s dodge caravan will fit.

 

Youch! she probably was a sedan in a former life, turned into a "roadster". If it were me, I'd blow it all apart to see what I have to work with, then go from there. That windshield is definitely not "A", The second row seat out of an early 90's dodge caravan works for a seat, but I think that is the last thing you need to look into for now..any updated pics of how it looks now?