How to Street Rod a 1930 Ford Model A Coupe

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By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (10 Ratings)

1930 Ford Model A Coupes are nice and they can turn heads while driving down the street. But, well, they aren't as cool as they could be. No problem; with a little sweat equity and some cash, you can turn your 1930 Ford Model Coupe into a street rod. Want to know more?

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Chassis

Step 1

Examine the frame of the Ford Model A Coupe. If the frame is in bad shape, do what you can to get it repaired. If the frame is too far gone, then consider using another.
Step 2

Shorten the back of the coupe so you can tuck a fuel tank beneath it.
Step 3

Chrome and polish the I beam and beef up the suspension.
Step 4

Update the brakes with new disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the back.

Drivetrain

Step 1

Decide what you want to do about the powerplant for the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe. You can either put in something that is totally new, or "retro."
Step 2

Look for a shop that specializes in rebuilding retro engines if you decide to go with the authentic powerplant. Shops like L&R Automotive Supply in Santa Fe Springs, California can help.
Step 3

Update the transmission, carburetors, intake and valve covers.

Wheels and Tires

Step 1

Choose the style of tires and wheels you will use with your 1930 Ford Model A Coupe. You can either stick with tires that are the same year as the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe or you can use tires of another year.
Step 2

Restore the wheels and hubcaps if you use period ones on your vehicle. Make sure they are sound.
Step 3

Purchase new tires for the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe.

Body and Paint

Step 1

Examine the panels of the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe. Restore and reinforce the panels as needed. Complete any necessary bodywork.
Step 2

Inspect the doors once the body is placed on the chassis and make adjustments as needed so they close properly.
Step 3

Examine the dash and update if desired. You can install a dash from another, newer model of the Ford Coupe or create your own custom dash.
Step 4

Work on the windshield frame next. You can create a custom windshield frame for a new look, or something more period, then fit it to the cowl.
Step 5

Paint the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe in the style you wish.

Interior

Step 1

Change the seats of the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe. You can create custom seats or retrofit seats from a newer model Ford Coupe to fit the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe body. Whatever seat you choose for the front, you will have to build new seats for the back to match it.
Step 2

Reupholster the front and back seats to match, then cover the panels on the inside of the 1930 Model A Coupe.
Step 3

Choose which gauges you will use for the 1930 Ford Model A Coupe. You can make the gauge panel look retro, or give it a cool, updated look. Replace the steering wheel to make it fit in with the new gauges and interior.