How to Restore a Ford Model A Coupe

A Model A Ford Coupe is a beautiful car and one that is a favorite of car enthusiasts to restore. Are you interested in beginning a similar project of your own?

Instructions

1. Read about Ford Model A Fords by doing research online, or by reading books like "How to Restore the Model A Ford" and others. Books like these help you know what to look for when searching for a car to restore.

2. Find a Ford Model A Coupe to restore. Look in the classifieds or publications like Uncle Henry's.

3. Go online. There you can find Ford Model A Coupes listed for sale on sites like Hemming's Motor News, eBay, Craigslist and more.

4. Inspect each Ford Model A Coupe carefully before considering it. If you are uncertain whether the vehicle is a good buy, bring someone with you who is mechanically inclined to help you. Don't jump on the first car you view. Take your time and purchase the right vehicle.

5. Prepare a place in your garage where you will work on the vehicle. As this might be a project that could take up to a year or more, make certain that this place is heated and protected from the weather. This is especially important in areas of the country where there is snow.

6. Strip the Ford Model A Coupe down to the frame and repair it if necessary. Take apart the rest of the parts and lubricate them, replacing any bolts and fasteners as needed.

7. Attend to the engine, cleaning it and replacing plugs, wires, lubricants, belts and hoses. Update any engine parts as needed.

8. Begin reassembling the frame, replacing the suspension and springs as you do so. Restore the body as well, repairing any damage or rust. Strip the body panels and prime them.

9. Reassemble the drive train and replace the engine. Reattach the gears. Restore the wheels and rims, and mount new tires. Mount tires on frame.

10. Put the Ford Model A body back on the frame and reattached the doors, fenders and running boards.

11. Reupholster the seat and install. Paint the body and polish any chrome to finish the restore project.

Tips & Warnings

• Restoring any vehicle is a major project, and the Ford Model A is no exception. This article gives you a very general idea of what is involved in this project, but it should not be used as a substitution for a proper restoration manual, which may run into the hundreds of pages.

Resources

• EBay has classic Ford Model A Coupes
• Check out the 1930 Photo Album for pictures
• Hemming's Motor News is a good source