Projects Model A

Finished drilling holes.

 

Added the other side piece

 

Test fit

 

Clamped the triangles in place

 

So started to practice my welding again… starting to practice with TIG and aluminum is a little challenging after 2 years… only one thing to do, and that’s just jump into the deep end! Man the preparation is where it’s at. I welded on some dirty 1/4” and it didn’t even break the surface to ball the tungsten. I’ve been using lanthanated as thoriated seems to be less recommended anymore. At 150 Amps and cleaned aluminum I started to get back in the groove. I had to increase the penetration though and turn down the cleaning. I just couldn’t dial it in so I just threw it on auto. I then started to practice on some coupons of similar pieces to the project. Ouch… not so good. I’m probably about 1 week away from dialing in everything to not fuck everything up. This is a weaving drill…

 

I acquired most of a model A 30-31 roadster yesterday! pics to follow... Would you guys recommend peice-mealing the missing parts over the intraweb or just driving down to Brookville roadster with what I have mounted on my chassis and pick up all what I need in one sitting. I currently have the cowl, stanchions, windshield, hood, original radiator grill shell, the rear quarters... and possibly the doors. Any input is appreciated... I am looking to do minimal fab and rust repair at this time due to covid/busy-ness and my sons are home to help...
@alchemy, @patmanta, @loudbang, @manyolcars , @osage orange

 

Back to practicing again… a little more progress with timing and steadiness.

 

Also created my through holes for my battery cables…

 

If I had most of an A roadster body I would have no shame driving to Brookville and buying the missing pieces. For sure get a nice subrail assembly from them. If they could assemble it on their jigs, you would be miles ahead of the game.

 

I swear I hope to fire this one day!

 

Finally finishing off gusseting and other straightening... My son's are home from college and all growed up!

 

To the machine shop to dyno the old stalwart... New to me 31 Model A coupe body in the background in great shape!

 

Fish plates and final welds

 

Glad to see you're still hangin' in there with this build.

 

Thanks, just finally found the time!

 

Using the MIG on some and TIG on others

 

Setting up final angles, and finishing up welds...

 

Figuring the front angles… for final weldment. Killing the houidaille set up.

 

Estimating weight

 

Buddy came over from the Model A club.

 

Blasting body... new frame for the 27' Lots of metal work ahead...

 

a great start

 

Thank you! It's better than some. I need to get the primer on it today...

 

Very tidy work!
I love a Model A.
Thanks for the update!

I think your fuel tank vent is upside down - the body of it is meant to be in the tank with the fitting coming through and sealed by the white washers.
The ball bearing allows the tank to breath but seals the breather in a rollover.

 

Yeah... I was just piddling with fittings a few years ago. I will re-read everything as things get closer. I appreciate the input and will refer back to you when the time comes. Thanks!

 

Ready for primer

 

Primed…

 

I don’t like the gray primer… it’s not laying well. Gonna use ol’ faithful.

 

Unfortunately the driver door has significant damage. I’m going to weld in a patch panel…