Technical 1929 Ford Model A Closed Cab Truck

Hello,
I am in the process of restoring a 1929 Model A Closed Cab Truck (complete drivetrain rebuilt and bolted into place, straight frame), and am having a bit of trouble finding some information, hopefully someone can point me in the right direction. I dis***embled my truck and, like most of these trucks, the bottom of the cab is gone. I bought new sub-rails, sub-rail extensions, curtain pan, seat riser, the cross channel, all the wood kits, every part I needed to replace.

My problem is: (1). How do I ensure I have the cowl post in the correct position before I start drilling holes in the sub-rails to rivet it? and (2) I have yet to find a "how-to" on where and what position the wood blocks that go under the sub-rails go on.

I've searched the internet and this website and have yet to find these answers. I was going to order "How to Build a Traditional Ford Hot Rod" by Mike Bishop, but wasn't sure if it was a book I needed. I see it highly recommended and would like some feedback.

Any information is very much appreciated and hopefully I haven't posted a previous subject thread. Thanks in advance.

 

Well for starters the Tardel/Bishop book is a good book to own. Tardel is a Ford man and has forgotten as much about these old heaps as about anyone still alive knows.

As for position for the cowl hoop there are holes in the frame that locate everything that you will need to get your body straight, use them.

 

looked over at the Ford Barn?

 

Hi. Not a Model A guy now but have many friends who have them. I had 3 A's but sold them in the early 60's (big mistake). Where are you located in Texas? There is a big bunch down here around Victoria & they have a very active club. I play Dominoes with some of them tomorrow evening & if I know where you are located at I likely can find out a contact for you in your area.

Jimmie

 

Check in on Fordbarn. It is also owned by Ryan and is a well managed site with many helpful folks. The Model A forum there is dominated by restoration purists, so tread lightly if that is not your direction for the car.

MAFCA/MARCA Judging Standards is another book full of valuable information even if you are not planning a restoration.

Basically, re***emble what you have with doors, square it up, tack cross bracing all over to hold it in the squared up position, put it on a leveled up original frame, and place it in the position where it fits properly. Use measurements you find in references to properly locate the body. Then, piece by piece, cut and fit the sub rail ***embly into position. If the bottom of the car is completely gone, full ***embly of the substructure on the frame first may be the easier way to build it back up.

Post photos here and on Ford Barn, and you will surely get more responses and suggestions as you proceed.

 

All of my sub-rails are new and do not have the reference holes. I'm hav

I'll head over there now. Thanks.

 

I'm originally from Texas, but stationed way up North.

 

Ford Barn is best, and they will steer you to the Model AA folks, who know the heavier trucks inside out. Glad you are saving another A truck.