iukini

Hi, I've struck an interest in Model T's. Have always enjoyed their appearance, appreciated their raw look and admired some of those extremely powerful drive trains (engines, blowers, exhausts, etc.) – but could never really afford one, UNTIL now =)

I have posted in this forum today to make some simply inquiries to those more experienced, in hopes of gaining a greater insight and understanding of which years, models, etc. I should pursue from the following queries/descriptions below:

1. Most important issue at hand, I am 6’2” height at 240 weight. The major obstacle I see is “fitting” into one of these cool-mobiles. Are there specific “years” or models that I could fit in better? I’ve heard of larger cowls, but no clue which is which or how to determine.

2. Next is steel vs. fiberglass boxes/buckets, what are the pros and cons in the short and long terms (besides the obvious weight and rusting of metal forms)?

3. Drive trains suggestions – don’t “need” a powerhouse, but any suggestions of engine, trans and rear end components would be great! Is Ford or Chevy better, or Mix/Match – any suggestions on a solid drive train that would need little to no maintenance would be ideal.

4. Doors – Why are most missing doors, or only have 1, sometimes even on the passenger side only which I find interesting?

5. General Pros and Cons of owning a Model T vehicle, anyone have advise on this…such as models which depreciate more or faster than others, perhaps models more in demand than others, upkeep involved, higher insurances, etc.

6. Legalities, such as registration, licensing, insurance, etc…any input of current or potential future obstacles is of greaet value to me in buying one for potential resell with less issues/problems

7. Finally, can anyone recommend a source of affordable Model T’s? I wouldn’t be opposed to Kits either, don’t mind a little sweat-equity, where as I can take some pride in its assembly. Any sources for parts, materials, kits, custom builder (who might be able to build me a better bucket/box to fit into, perhaps with higher seat backs, longer leg room, convenient pedal locations, etc. – now that would be the icing on the cake!

An FYI - I recently test drove a 1923 fiberglass t-bucket (as it was advertised) – besides cramped as heck and driving with my RIGHT foot about 1-2 feet offset to the right for the gas pedal, then kneechin (my unique hit my chin with my knee word) when trying to brake/stop, I also noticed doors missing (perhaps common, but strange), but I immediately thought, I can certainly swing a foot at 6’2”, but what of spouse and in-laws, etc. – Further, for those without doors, but having covers/roofs, how the heck do adults enter/exit gracefully – I can foresee these motions as being quite comical at times =)

Well, that’s about it…I would like to find reasonable sources, good, straight forward information and hear of experiences, good or bad, with certain models or makes…perhaps avoid some pitfalls any of you have encountered over the years.

Thanks for reading, hope you can contribute and best wishes!!!
Have a great day,
iukini