1931 Ford Model A Fordor Sedan
Ford Motor Company introduced its all new Model A for 1928. Eight different passenger bodies were available, ranging from the basic $480 roadster convertible to the $585 Fordor enclosed sedan. The Model A's nickel radiator shell and full crown fenders gave it a sophisticated look inspired by Lincoln.
For auction, a 1931 Ford Model A Fordor sedan in barn find condition showing 75,394 miles, but the true miles are unknown. A bit dusty, rusty and replete with paint issues, this one has good bones and would be a decent candidate for an ambitious restoration.
Exterior
We're thinking the black vinyl top which waterfalls down to cover the C-pillar and rear window, has been replaced at some point because other than some dirt, it's in fine condition. The body of this stately and upright four door is chipping all around and there are areas where surface rust has made itself known. There are five 21-inch wire wheels in total and they're in decent shape, but the tires are dry rotted. Bumpers, horn, light bar and lights, door handles, side mirrors, and single tail light are all in place but will need some polishing or replating to return to their former glory. A Messko motometer tops the oxidized radiator shell and green paint is seen wherever the black is peeling, and that's over much of the car. One rear fender is falling apart from rust and in general, the rockers, fenders, and rear apron are heavily pitted with advanced surface rust. All that said, there are no large dents in the panels; it's a fairly straight car!
Interior
Original broadcloth still clings to the rear doors but it is stained and torn while the front doors have smooth, mottled brown vinyl attached and while not particularly period, at least they appear clean and mostly intact. Moving inside, the red vinyl covered shell of the front bench is heavily frayed and torn, while the black vinyl tufted seat is in aged but decent condition with some crude stitching on the top frame to keep it together. The back seat is the same material and will likely clean up nicely. A four spoke steering wheel fronts your basic Model A dash with center instrument cluster, all showing some age as is the rubberized floor covering from which the shifter and handbrake rise. Overhead, the cloth headliner and sidewalls are barely hanging on and the windlace is also a bit tattered.
Drivetrain
Behind the engine cover is a 201ci inline four cylinder rated at 40 horsepower and fed fuel via a 1-barrel carburetor. It's backed by a 3-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear axle and 3.78 gears. The engine bay has plenty of patina and surface rust on the block.
Undercarriage
Lots of surface rust down here but we don't see any of the invasive stuff. A single exhaust carries a stock style muffler, mechanical drum brakes are on all four wheels, and transverse leaf springs are supplied front and rear.
Drive-Ability
The car has keys but is not drivable.
This is the dream barn find that's not too far gone, even if you run through a few wire wheels to get it right! If you squint, you can see the former majesty of this American icon shine through. Grab a couple vats of elbow grease and get to work!
Sale conducted by Geyer Auction Companies Pennsylvania license number AY-000243-L
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