Search found 223 matches

by Loftfield
Wed Mar 27, 2024 8:34 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: 10,000 octopi can’t be wrong !
Replies: 6
Views: 500

Re: 10,000 octopi can’t be wrong !

What hard pavement?
by Loftfield
Tue Mar 26, 2024 8:18 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Soldering a T gas tank
Replies: 25
Views: 2055

Re: Soldering a T gas tank

Save yourself a lot of anxiety and effort. Clean the area thoroughly, as f you were going to paint it, then use J-B weld or some there epoxy. Fiberglass resin will not work, must be epoxy, not polyester resin. No worries, little fuss, and if it fails you just grind off the epoxy and try again.
by Loftfield
Mon Mar 04, 2024 7:40 am
Forum: Vintage Clothing
Topic: What did people wear in USA between '16 and '20?
Replies: 48
Views: 4477

Re: What did people wear in USA between '16 and '20?

Why Dress? When we drive in parades, car shows, or tours, we prefer to dress, meaning put on clothes appropriate for the period of our cars (Edwardian Era brass…sort of). At 1910-1912 we just miss the true Edwardian period (Edward VII died in 1910), but the fashions did not change that much in two y...
by Loftfield
Wed Feb 28, 2024 7:57 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Strange Transmission Brake band material
Replies: 14
Views: 925

Re: Strange Transmission Brake band material

Yup. I remember having bonded linings installed on a T in the 1960's. car left my ownership shortly thereafter so no news on what damage the linings did to drums or other engine innards. It was just a "thing" back then to get away from Scandinavia, looking for longer band life. Then came wood and no...
by Loftfield
Mon Feb 26, 2024 8:17 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: My late wife was a spend thrift!
Replies: 10
Views: 638

Re: My late wife was a spend thrift!

Salt will be good forever, it is indeed, likely a zillion years old already, hence the point of salting meats etc. If yours is clumped from moisture then a quick trip in the food processor or blender will bring it back to proper condition.
by Loftfield
Tue Feb 20, 2024 8:17 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: What's your MODERN? :)
Replies: 54
Views: 2067

Re: What's your MODERN? :)

2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit; boo for the Chinese partial ownership of what was once Chrysler but at least it is made in USA. 2018 Ford F-250 Superduty, pulls the 20' enclosed trailer for the Model T when touring far away and does most of its work on the farm.
by Loftfield
Sun Feb 18, 2024 8:01 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: 1910 Overland carb help
Replies: 5
Views: 299

Re: 1910 Overland carb help

Model D Schedulers were ubiquitous, used on numerous automobiles, stationary engines, and marine engines. The folks at the museum will find it not difficult to locate a Scheduler Model D, BUT, they must know whether it is updraft, sidedraft, etc, the diameter of the throat. spacing of the attachment...
by Loftfield
Wed Feb 07, 2024 8:15 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: T trailering question
Replies: 40
Views: 1791

Re: T trailering question

Find the $$$$ to get an enclosed trailer. I use a 20' Kaufmann to carry 1912 touring or 1910 Buick. Car tops must come down, but just down, no need to disassemble, windshield goes in if one is careful. The big selling point is that inside my trailer is a complete set of tools, spare parts, a work be...
by Loftfield
Sun Feb 04, 2024 7:47 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: an AI poem . . .
Replies: 4
Views: 403

Re: an AI poem . . .

The AI is not better. The Haiku submitted is much more creative, says far more in far fewer words. The AI was doggerel at best.
by Loftfield
Sun Feb 04, 2024 7:42 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The not so marvelous motor mystery
Replies: 19
Views: 1394

Re: The not so marvelous motor mystery

If all the above fails try pulling the car, key on, let out he high speed clutch to get the engine to turn at a good pace. If the engine starts and runs you then know the problem is some fiddly little setting of carb or spark, just keep fiddling until you find the sweet spots.
by Loftfield
Tue Jan 30, 2024 9:40 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Missing valve clip
Replies: 9
Views: 547

Re: Missing valve clip

Lost steel and iron objects that have fallen onto the ground can often be relocated by use of a strong magnet. There are wide magnets used by construction folks to recover lost nails before they find their way into a tire.
by Loftfield
Fri Dec 29, 2023 9:22 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Information Wanted: Blockley Inner Tube
Replies: 5
Views: 400

Re: Information Wanted: Blockley Inner Tube

No need for a metric converted, simply call or email Blockley and the wonderful staff will do the translations for you. Been there, done that, excellent results!
by Loftfield
Fri Dec 29, 2023 9:17 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Ruckstell axle, can it do what a "T" can't
Replies: 17
Views: 896

Re: Ruckstell axle, can it do what a "T" can't

Back to Mr. Sheldon's post about authenticity. Ruxtells didn't come on the market until 1920's, but they can be retrofitted back to 1913. The clamshells of the earlier cars aren't big enough to take a Ruxtell so installing one means installing a later differential, more motion away from authentic. E...
by Loftfield
Tue Dec 26, 2023 7:54 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Merry Christmas
Replies: 6
Views: 464

Re: Merry Christmas

I see you won a major award, excellent! But be careful; it is frag-ee-lay.
by Loftfield
Fri Dec 22, 2023 8:15 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: State of the art in 1906
Replies: 9
Views: 778

Re: State of the art in 1906

Come on, there were tracking devices in 1906, and a lot earlier than that. They were then called wives and mothers: "Where have you been? What have you been up to? What do you mean you bought another car?"
by Loftfield
Fri Dec 22, 2023 8:08 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?
Replies: 89
Views: 11147

Re: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?

Once, long ago, there was a thread similar in length to this one concerning "What looks good"? The overall consensus was that white tires look better on painted wheels than on varnished natural wood while black tires look better on varnished wood wheels. So, maybe, another element to this discussion...
by Loftfield
Wed Dec 20, 2023 9:56 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: My Christmas Present to Me
Replies: 28
Views: 1423

Re: My Christmas Present to Me

When asked when automobile racing began. Henry Ford is said to have quipped, when the second car was finished. On the same page, after-market upgrades likely appeared about the same time. The question then develops as to just what "original" means. Wire wheels from the factory are highly unlikely, b...
by Loftfield
Wed Dec 20, 2023 8:52 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Period Dirt
Replies: 7
Views: 491

Re: Period Dirt

Absolutely fascinating little piece of history. A proper forensic analysis of the dirt would likely indicate where it originated , locally or blown in on the storm that swept Dorothy and Toto away. Keeping the dirt is not silly, it remains a forensic example of local history, exactly the sort of evi...
by Loftfield
Sat Dec 16, 2023 7:51 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Early Buick
Replies: 10
Views: 566

Re: Early Buick

My first car was a 1924 Ford sedan brought home in 1962; have had several Model T's after that; currently own two 1912's. I also own a 1909 and a 1910 Buick Model 10, Buick's low end car meant to compete with Model T. It is my observation that for $100 (10%) more, you got twice the car with the Buic...
by Loftfield
Mon Dec 11, 2023 9:52 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: A 21 yr old wants my '23
Replies: 53
Views: 3429

Re: A 21 yr old wants my '23

On the other end of the story, one post alluded to we superannuated folks leaving the scene. Given the correctness of that observation, should a car be sold to an "old geezer" who will soon shuffle off leaving the car to who knows what end? Or, is the old geezer too old to properly care for the car?...
by Loftfield
Mon Dec 11, 2023 9:19 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: My 15 won't start
Replies: 44
Views: 1877

Re: My 15 won't start

I empathize with your situation, have been there in the past, am there right now. Had an engine rebuilt by totally knowledgeable person, could not get it to start by hand crank, finally had to pull it the first few times until components got "settled". Have an engine right now just finished valve jo...
by Loftfield
Sat Dec 09, 2023 9:31 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Old Photo - Wonderful Repair shop
Replies: 21
Views: 1511

Re: Old Photo - Wonderful Repair shop

Perhaps one point missed is the consideration of just how much of a garage was needed to keep a Model T going. While pictures such as this one bring up huge quaffs of nostalgia, I can't say that it would be fun to work in such cramped quarters, much prefer the open space of modern clear-span buildin...
by Loftfield
Sat Dec 09, 2023 9:17 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Blockley Tire import question.
Replies: 31
Views: 1703

Re: Blockley Tire import question.

Blockley's are a little more expensive but they will last twice as long as any other tire. Even if adding import duty one is still way ahead with Blockley.It seems that essentially all of the vintage tires are made in one factory in Viet Nam, Blockley simply imposes their own standards. Why US tire ...
by Loftfield
Sun Dec 03, 2023 8:47 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: If you could ask Henry a question ...
Replies: 40
Views: 1974

Re: If you could ask Henry a question ...

Is it true that you moved the steering wheel to the left side of the Model T because Clara asked for it to be there so she didn't have to get out into the mud and manure in the middle of the road? As a follow-on, is it true that Clara was the only person in the entire world of whom you were afraid (...
by Loftfield
Fri Dec 01, 2023 7:41 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Clincher rim and metal stems
Replies: 6
Views: 429

Re: Clincher rim and metal stems

It all depends on how "correct" you want your car to appear. Blockley tubes come with threaded steel stems precisely so that you CAN affix the base nut that then carries the metal tube cover; looks "correct" even though it isn't entirely proper. While you can use one, you don't need a bridge washer ...
by Loftfield
Tue Nov 28, 2023 8:49 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Choosing a Body Style for CA DMV?
Replies: 36
Views: 3565

Re: Choosing a Body Style for CA DMV?

When registering a 1911 Maxwell recently purchased, I was asked how many doors does it have. I replied, "none". The nice lady then asked, "How many doors would it have if it had doors". Answer: "Two". Matter fixed!
by Loftfield
Tue Nov 28, 2023 8:42 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: #1 cylinder running rich
Replies: 27
Views: 1114

Re: #1 cylinder running rich

The topic of this thread keeps reappearing, so there apparently are some problems to be addressed. I have controlled carbon on #1 by adjustment of the needle valve. In summer warm air the car can run just a tad richer without carbon build-up, helps keep the engine cooler (trick learned from long-tim...
by Loftfield
Thu Nov 23, 2023 7:31 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: A Wake Up Call on How Times Are Changing....,
Replies: 77
Views: 4503

Re: A Wake Up Call on How Times Are Changing....,

What to do? Cashiers checks are nearly worthless, so easily forged. Cash has always been vulnerable, if not Bonnie and Clyde then confiscation by law enforcement to bolster their banks accounts. Personal checks are a joke. Recent purchases: a unique apple cider press direct from China, paid via PayP...
by Loftfield
Tue Nov 21, 2023 7:25 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Police car
Replies: 2
Views: 438

Re: Police car

My guess is that it was to carry the chief to important political events, not for highway patrol!
by Loftfield
Mon Nov 20, 2023 7:29 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: How to install seatbelts on an all wood body
Replies: 30
Views: 1373

Re: How to install seatbelts on an all wood body

My solution is a bumper sticker bought recently and affixed to the dash (1912 touring). It says

WARNING: NO AIRBAGS
WE DIE LIKE REAL MEN!
by Loftfield
Sun Nov 19, 2023 11:06 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: My last parade
Replies: 10
Views: 1027

Re: My last parade

Mr. Coffey, I am also in Western North Carolina, have a set of four very good demountables with nearly new tires. However, these items lack hubs, but we can talk. In any event, I'd like to know where you and your T are located. Give me a call or text at 8-two-8, two four three-7454. Hope to hear fro...
by Loftfield
Fri Nov 10, 2023 7:29 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Piston material
Replies: 7
Views: 445

Re: Piston material

Model T came with aluminum pistons. Whoever put them in failed to hone the wrist pins, a requirement for aluminium pistons. As note above, froze up, car stopped pretty quickly. Engine needed a serious overhaul, had it done professionally as absolutely everything needed to be replaced on engine and t...
by Loftfield
Tue Nov 07, 2023 7:43 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Shop heat
Replies: 18
Views: 1145

Re: Shop heat

Here in Mama Bear country (Brevard, North Carolina), which is to say not too hot and not too cold, I choose to not heat the garage in winter. My experience across many decades has been that heated air is dry air, dries out the wood in the wheels and in the body, causing some serious problems. One Mo...
by Loftfield
Wed Sep 27, 2023 7:48 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Winter storage
Replies: 9
Views: 505

Re: Winter storage

The alternative is to move South where we don't put up our cars for any season.
by Loftfield
Wed Sep 27, 2023 7:42 am
Forum: Classifieds - Parts
Topic: WANTED - Sidmore AC Brakes
Replies: 15
Views: 793

Re: WANTED - Skidmore AC Brakes

What an unfortunate name for a set of brakes!
by Loftfield
Sun Sep 17, 2023 8:02 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Tubes
Replies: 5
Views: 432

Re: Tubes

Blockley's are a few $$$$ more but well worth the investment. Rubber at least twice as thick as the "standards". They come with a nickel plated metal stem, couldn't possibly ask for more. Always arrive in USA within a week of ordering. Can't imagine it would be any more time for you folks down under...
by Loftfield
Sun Aug 20, 2023 8:33 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: EMP
Replies: 37
Views: 1743

Re: EMP

Forget your Model T, the coils are exactly what suffers in EMP (It was the coils on the telegraph keys that zapped the operators in the Carrington event, named after Richard Carrington, British amateur astronomer who demonstrated the existence of solar flares). Buy a good bicycle, and a whole lot of...
by Loftfield
Mon Aug 14, 2023 7:35 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: INSPECTION STICKERS
Replies: 16
Views: 1104

Re: INSPECTION STICKERS

A couple very good studies only a few years ago found that states with inspections have no more nor fewer traffic accidents caused by equipment malfunction than those states that have no inspection. The inspection was always just a way to force people to the commercial garage where they could be eas...
by Loftfield
Mon Aug 07, 2023 8:16 am
Forum: Vintage Clothing
Topic: What did people wear in USA between '16 and '20?
Replies: 48
Views: 4477

Re: What did people wear in USA between '16 and '20?

We like to "dress" for parades. shows, tours, etc, often bringing weird looks from the people whose only interest is the mechanics and bodywork of their cars. "Dressing" just adds that extra little bit of authenticity. But what is authentic? The first mistake most make is looking at Downton Abbey an...
by Loftfield
Sun Jun 04, 2023 12:37 pm
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Inventions I'd like to see
Replies: 9
Views: 855

Re: Inventions I'd like to see

The biggest problem with the time machine is that we could all go back to see what Mr. Ford actually put on his cars. A whole lot of "experts" might be sadly embarrassed!
by Loftfield
Sun May 28, 2023 7:47 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: What’s the trick to a smooth transition between low and high gear?
Replies: 41
Views: 2465

Re: What’s the trick to a smooth transition between low and high gear?

Have now had a chance to drive quite a few miles retarding the spark when shifting as per suggestion from Robert in New Jersey. It definitely works. I cannot say with certainty that retarding the spark instead of the throttle gives a smoother shift (if it does the difference is slight), but there is...
by Loftfield
Thu May 25, 2023 7:33 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: What’s the trick to a smooth transition between low and high gear?
Replies: 41
Views: 2465

Re: What’s the trick to a smooth transition between low and high gear?

Robert's advice about using the spark advance has merit. I have never tried it when shifting, but retarding the spark has wonderful good effect when the engine is lugging. I believe that retarding the spark in the slow speed lug may help forestall joining the two-piece crankshaft club. While the Mod...
by Loftfield
Thu May 25, 2023 7:24 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Stutzman's
Replies: 17
Views: 2349

Re: Stutzman's

Just to clarify: Stutzman is Amish, hence no electronic communication.
by Loftfield
Mon May 22, 2023 7:23 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Lake Norman T's (Possible new NC Model T Club)
Replies: 8
Views: 686

Re: Lake Norman T's (Possible new NC Model T Club)

Tarheel Tee's not the only T club. Blue Ridge Riders has a few members in the Hendersonville/Brevard/Asheville area. Alas, it is a long drive to Lake Norman. We tend to drive with Tennessee T's, a bit closer. If you get something going in the greater Charlotte area let us know, some may trailer down...
by Loftfield
Sun May 21, 2023 11:12 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Show Us Your Holder For Registration and Insurance
Replies: 16
Views: 1225

Re: Show Us Your Holder For Registration and Insurance

Under the back seat. Who cares? At 30mph no one is ever going to stop you for anything other than getting a good look. At least here in North Carolina no one gives a flip about cars as old as Model T.
by Loftfield
Tue May 09, 2023 8:28 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Ken Nye Last Ride
Replies: 7
Views: 1083

Ken Nye Last Ride

This note to alert the passing last week of Ken Nye of Mills River/Etowah, North Carolina. Ken came late to Model T’s after an earlier life as Army helicopter crew chief, then helicopter mechanic. Ken never got his Model T to fly, but he and wife, Jenni, toured extensively in their 1923 touring car ...
by Loftfield
Sat Apr 08, 2023 8:18 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: 30 x 3 tires and tubes
Replies: 13
Views: 1298

Re: 30 x 3 tires and tubes

Definitely Blockley. In the US they arrive within a week with no import/custom hassles. Well worth the few extra dollars.
by Loftfield
Sat Apr 01, 2023 9:17 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Gravel or Highway
Replies: 25
Views: 1838

Re: Gravel or Highway

Been there, done that, nearly bought the farm not the tee shirt! Stay away from 65mph and higher roads, especially if there is truck traffic. Sometimes those modern drivers don't realise just how slowly you are progressing down the highway. The worst part of gravel roads is not washouts from rain bu...
by Loftfield
Sat Apr 01, 2023 9:04 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Starving for fuel, can NOT figure it out!?
Replies: 28
Views: 2079

Re: Starving for fuel, can NOT figure it out!?

Not every "clean" fuel tank is really clean. Little nasties can be out of sight beyond the tank baffles. While modern fuel filters will cause problems, such as those discussed above, there is nothing wrong with obtaining an older fuel bowl filter that can provide just that extra little bit of protec...
by Loftfield
Mon Mar 27, 2023 7:56 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Enclosed Car Trailer Optimal Size
Replies: 11
Views: 1106

Re: Enclosed Car Trailer Optimal Size

Freighter Jim has provided all the details you need. However, tall trailers are easily available. I use a lower trailer, have to put down the top but the windshield gets in fine (1912 Touring). I like the lower trailer because there is less windage driving down the road, much less sway from side to ...
by Loftfield
Wed Mar 22, 2023 7:42 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Why I love Florida
Replies: 28
Views: 3104

Re: Why I love Florida

One of the biggest problems with Florida is that you walk around 2/3 of the year with wet underwear, the main reason why so many Yankees who move to Florida to retire often become half-backs, meaning they move half way back to Yankee-land, North Carolina, the region of perfect, Mama Bear weather.
by Loftfield
Sat Mar 18, 2023 7:50 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Calling All Ye Heinz Coil Box Afficionados
Replies: 9
Views: 906

Re: Calling All Ye Heinz Coil Box Afficionados

Just to add a small bit of worry. If your switch actually is connecting the battery and the magneto at the same time, (a short across the contacts), you may be feeding DC current into the mag, which can demagnetise the magnets. If that happens it will be necessary to go back to earlier posts that de...
by Loftfield
Fri Feb 24, 2023 7:47 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Why I love Florida
Replies: 28
Views: 3104

Re: Why I love Florida

OK, I am the evaluator. Grew up in the snow belt of northeast Ohio, plenty cold and snow October through April. Then I moved south for college and stayed, eventually made it to Barbados for eleven years, VERY south! While in coastal Virginia, and central and coastal North Carolina I discovered that ...
by Loftfield
Fri Feb 10, 2023 7:47 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: I don't think Hank done it this a-way . . .
Replies: 16
Views: 2224

Re: I don't think Hank done it this a-way . . .

My grandfather taught my dad, and my dad taught me. Don't force it, get a bigger hammer. Yes, fully equipped tire shops have a long-handled sledge hammer with a particular broad edge to one end of the hammer. These are used for removing big old truck tires. Obviously, the wheel has to come off the c...
by Loftfield
Wed Feb 08, 2023 7:02 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Tinting Linseed Oil
Replies: 30
Views: 3953

Re: Tinting Linseed Oil

If the top is stationary (not folding or flapping, i.e. laid down on wood) the traditional technique used on canvas covers over cabins and the like on boats was to pull the canvas a tight as possible, tack down, then wet the canvas with water, then apply oil-based paint of the desired color. As the ...
by Loftfield
Tue Feb 07, 2023 7:13 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: First drive of the year
Replies: 16
Views: 1821

Re: First drive of the year

The trick is finding the happy median, medium, or whatever you want to call it. I grew up in Northeast Ohio, first T on my 16th birthday, drove like mad all summer then had to dodge the salt on warm (ha ha) winter days, but the T was mostly put up with deep snow everywhere November to April. Next it...
by Loftfield
Tue Jan 31, 2023 7:00 am
Forum: Classifieds - Parts
Topic: WTB Holley Float Arm
Replies: 3
Views: 577

Re: WTB Holley Float Arm

For those who care, advice was given to contact Corey Walker for the float arm. Short story even shorter, he had one, in the mail as we read. I had bought a refurbished NH from him several years ago, excellent carb but not correct for the 1912. Meanwhile, the Holley H1 in question has been rebuilt (...
by Loftfield
Mon Jan 30, 2023 11:36 am
Forum: Classifieds - Parts
Topic: WTB Holley Float Arm
Replies: 3
Views: 577

WTB Holley Float Arm

Rather desperately seeking float arm for Holley 4550 carburetor, 1912. Lang's supplier is deceased. Prefer to buy just the arm but will consider purchase of more of the carburetor if available.

8two8 two4three-seven4five four

Brevard, North Carolina
by Loftfield
Thu Jan 26, 2023 6:29 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Radioactive spark plugs
Replies: 9
Views: 1181

Re: Radioactive spark plugs

But wait. I was born just after the war (WWII) and put my feet into one of those x-ray shoe-fit boxes. It didn't affect my brain...my brain...my brain...
by Loftfield
Mon Jan 23, 2023 8:11 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Lemon Tree Very Pretty, Lemon Tree Very Sweet.
Replies: 9
Views: 1302

Re: Lemon Tree Very Pretty, Lemon Tree Very Sweet.

OK, lived in the Caribbean for eleven years. Here's what you do with your lemon juice. Typically, this recipe calls for lime juice, but lemon will do. 4 of strong 3 of weak 2 of sour 1 of sweet 4 volumes of good rum, Barbados rum is best 3 volumes of water 2 volumes of simple syrup (sugar concentrat...
by Loftfield
Thu Jan 19, 2023 7:57 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Young Members College Bound Convoy
Replies: 23
Views: 2336

Re: Young Members College Bound Convoy

Absolutely do it!!!!!! in 1968 I drove from the family home in Chardon, Ohio, to college (William and Mary) in Williamsburg, Virginia, in my 1915 roadster, in January. It was cold, it snowed, I had endless little problems, but it left me with some of the best stories of my life. It was also illegal ...
by Loftfield
Wed Jan 18, 2023 7:51 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Manifold to carb heater
Replies: 29
Views: 2323

Re: Manifold to carb heater

The downside to the heat pipe is loss of power. Some few years ago someone did a dynamometer test, reported on in the then Forum, on T engines with and without heat pipes and found a 10% loss of power using the heat pipe. When I lived in Ohio I always used a heat pipe, even on the odd day year-round...
by Loftfield
Mon Jan 16, 2023 8:36 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Everything but the kitchen sink ?
Replies: 15
Views: 1571

Re: Everything but the kitchen sink ?

Definitely not an English toilet. We see the water inlet where US toilets have them but the discharge is clearly under the stand, again as US toilets are built. English toilets have both water inlet fitting AND discharge on the back side of the base. While Thomas Crapper perfected the already invent...
by Loftfield
Sat Jan 14, 2023 8:01 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: How do you protect your woodwork?
Replies: 6
Views: 994

Re: How do you protect your woodwork?

There are any number of spar varnishes with good UV protection, used on wooden boats when I had some. However, applying same will degrade the historical value of what is there now. My suggestion is to make up your own "polish" consisting of half spirits of gum turpentine, half boiled linseed oil. Ru...
by Loftfield
Fri Jan 13, 2023 7:31 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Reproduced Model T project
Replies: 15
Views: 1735

Re: Reproduced Model T project

Just a note: Jack Putnam in Bellevue, Ohio, made the engines for those cars. He knows everything there is to know about them.
by Loftfield
Tue Jan 10, 2023 7:20 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: importing Blockley tires
Replies: 8
Views: 1066

Re: importing Blockley tires

Bought Blockleys in September, no customs, no charges, tires and tubes just arrived via FedEx and UPS. If customs held them or did anything it was hidden, no additional paperwork, no additional $$$. All arrived within a week of purchase.
by Loftfield
Wed Dec 28, 2022 7:43 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Modern tank for acetylene lights
Replies: 22
Views: 2098

Re: Modern tank for acetylene lights

AirGas has "B" tanks available. These have the same valve offset as the Presto-Lite tanks so can be mounted horizontally, making sure, of course, that the valve is on the high side when mounted. Sizes are available that will fit the Presto-Lite brackets, put some Presto-Lite decals on and only the A...
by Loftfield
Tue Dec 27, 2022 10:15 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Mounting Tires on 1912 Clincher Rim Advice
Replies: 30
Views: 2258

Re: Mounting Tires on 1912 Clincher Rim Advice

Just finished putting two new front (30x3) Blockley's on my 1912 touring. I am not inherently good at this task, and this one was bad. The tires went onto the rims just fine, but the bead refused to go under the clinch on the rim (no rust, smooth metal). Finally had to use a bead-breaker pushing on ...
by Loftfield
Sun Dec 25, 2022 6:45 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Blockley Tires are they any good
Replies: 13
Views: 1560

Re: Blockley Tires are they any good

I just put two Blockleys on the front of my 1912 (30x3). They look good, no idea how long they will last. Only negative was great difficulty getting the beads to slip under the clincher rims. In the end I had to apply Crisco to the bead, use a bead-breaker, hammer, and a tool fashioned from a cold c...
by Loftfield
Fri Dec 16, 2022 7:23 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Road Flair
Replies: 8
Views: 972

Re: Road Flair

How much do you want for the one shown?
by Loftfield
Fri Dec 16, 2022 7:22 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Harry
Replies: 11
Views: 1052

Re: Harry

No, not time to get rid of the royals. The Westminster system of democratic government requires a head of state for a variety of functions, many seemingly ceremonial, but actually of great import to the proper and correct running of government. Whether you are a pro-Trump conservative, or a left-win...
by Loftfield
Mon Dec 12, 2022 7:24 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Ash wood substitute
Replies: 21
Views: 2490

Re: Ash wood substitute

About those bugs: powder-post beetles, termites, other wood borers, and carpenter bees as well will get into almost any hardwood. On interior wood, such as a car body that doesn't stay outside, they can be permanently and entirely safely eliminated by mixing sodium octoborate with polyethylene glyco...
by Loftfield
Mon Dec 05, 2022 9:08 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: 1912 Steering Quadrant Question
Replies: 17
Views: 1469

Re: 1912 Steering Quadrant Question

Oh yes, both my 1912 Model T's have rivets, certainly needed.
by Loftfield
Sat Dec 03, 2022 8:06 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: How old are your Model T tires?
Replies: 38
Views: 2956

Re: How old are your Model T tires?

My 1912 touring came to me in 2015 with Firestones from 1972. The tread was excellent but a lot of checking on the sidewalls. Those tires served locally for a couple years in fine form. Foolishly I opted for safety before beginning a number of tours and replaced with four Vietstone tires that barely...
by Loftfield
Sat Dec 03, 2022 7:51 am
Forum: Classifieds - Parts
Topic: TT service manual?
Replies: 16
Views: 1444

Re: TT service manual?

I don't own a TT but my next door neighbour bought one recently. I have a couple 1912's so am trying to help him, learning along the way. How do we sign up for that secret TT club?
by Loftfield
Fri Nov 25, 2022 11:23 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Potential causes for warm start difficulty
Replies: 19
Views: 1547

Re: Potential causes for warm start difficulty

Exactly the same problem encountered on a 1910 Buick Model 10 with a Schebler Model D carburetor. After driving myself crazy fiddling with the carburetor, double checking the magneto, and wondering if maybe incorrect tire pressure was at fault (that desperate), the trouble was finally found to be va...
by Loftfield
Sun Nov 20, 2022 8:49 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Before I reinvent the wheel.....any creative suggestions?
Replies: 8
Views: 1242

Re: Before I reinvent the wheel.....any creative suggestions?

Glued a strip of plastic tubing along the wooden coil box lid such that it engages the tops of the coils behind the vibrator posts. The tubing flexes enough to give a spring-like effect, holds all in place nicely without attacking the integrity of the coil box itself.
by Loftfield
Wed Nov 09, 2022 8:09 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Unusual rear hub failure
Replies: 19
Views: 1971

Re: Unusual rear hub failure

Yup, happened to me exactly the same way. I had never seen this particular failure before but Forum members assured it does happen. It happened while on the steep part of my driveway (scary!) but parking brakes got the car slowed in time to prevent taking out the sheep paddock fencing, a good reason...
by Loftfield
Thu Nov 03, 2022 8:30 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: A Brass Clear Coat Discolor Problem
Replies: 7
Views: 1096

Re: A Brass Clear Coat Discolor Problem

While you are trying various solvents, there is always acetone and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) the latter being PVC pipe cleaner. Both are a little more aggressive than lacquer thinner. Even lacquer thinners come in varying degrees of aggressiveness depending on the temperature of the lacquer for whic...
by Loftfield
Mon Oct 24, 2022 9:17 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Small apple crop
Replies: 4
Views: 858

Re: Small apple crop

The reduction in your apple crop is merely inflation caused by Bidenomics and policies of your whacko governor. Get used to it. Meanwhile, here in Western North Carolina, we lost all our fruit crops last year due to a very late freeze caused, I am assured, by global warming. As a consequence of the ...
by Loftfield
Sat Oct 01, 2022 7:14 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Civil War Rememberance Cancelled at THF
Replies: 29
Views: 3057

Re: Civil War Rememberance Cancelled at THF

It is a sad day when The Henry Ford (THF) has to cancel such events. Alas, they have been going downhill for a long time. Last time I was there they were not running steam equipment because some untrained person got killed trying to polish the brass on one engine when it was running. Who was in char...
by Loftfield
Mon Sep 19, 2022 8:58 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: OT- Wife and dementia
Replies: 28
Views: 5420

Re: OT- Wife and dementia

My wife has been in dementia for thirteen years. It can be a very slow process, and each victims seems to go through it differently. For me, one of the biggest disappointments, beyond the serious ones, is that it is no longer possible to tour, or travel anywhere for that matter. Being away from fami...
by Loftfield
Tue Sep 13, 2022 9:49 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Carb Rebuild
Replies: 12
Views: 1671

Re: Carb Rebuild

A very good carb re-builder is Old Carb Doctor in Nebo, North Carolina. He has done Holley H-1, H-4551, and two Scheduler Model D's for me. Find him online under Old Carb Doctor.
by Loftfield
Mon Sep 12, 2022 9:44 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Inspection Denial
Replies: 87
Views: 7047

Re: Inspection Denial

Despite all the flip responses, mine included above, there is a clear message here. There are too many folks out there who want everything, and everybody, to fit a common, standard mold. Many of these folks are not happy when people are having fun enjoying a hobby that they don't understand or appre...
by Loftfield
Sun Sep 11, 2022 9:20 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Inspection Denial
Replies: 87
Views: 7047

Re: Inspection Denial

Better than suing for infringement on the right to happiness, merely let it be known as far as possible that you are offended.
by Loftfield
Mon Aug 29, 2022 10:00 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Contracting Hobby
Replies: 10
Views: 1369

Re: Contracting Hobby

Not to worry! After many years being involved with organisations such as the National Trust, Museums, etc, I found that in each group the older folks worried that the organization would die with them. There was always a big rush to attract "younger" members. What must be remembered is that teens and...
by Loftfield
Sat Aug 27, 2022 8:36 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Opinion: Brake apostacy
Replies: 44
Views: 4258

Re: Opinion: Brake apostacy

The hobby is big enough, of course, to accommodate everyone. But I always question why folks who want to go fast have a Model T instead of a Corvette? I grew up in Northeast Ohio, basically flat, Model T factory brakes just fine. I then had Model T's in Wilmington, North Carolina, pancake flat, fact...
by Loftfield
Sat Aug 27, 2022 7:54 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: My Blockley Story
Replies: 17
Views: 2495

Re: My Blockley Story

It has been well-covered on the Forum that Blockley Tyres are made in Viet Nam, in fact in the same factory that makes the Vietnamese garbage. The difference is that Blockley imposes their own much higher standards on the composition and manufacturing. It is of little difference who makes the tires,...
by Loftfield
Fri Aug 26, 2022 9:06 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: My Blockley Story
Replies: 17
Views: 2495

My Blockley Story

On Sunday, August 21, 2022, I noticed cords showing on one front tire, 1912 Model T touring. Time for tires, obviously. Being a regular reader of the Forum, I immediately opted for Blockley instead of the Vietnamese garbage, yes, those which had given me somewhere between 2500 and 3000 miles at the ...
by Loftfield
Mon Aug 01, 2022 7:19 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Fixing flats and the best laid plans...
Replies: 25
Views: 3125

Re: Fixing flats and the best laid plans...

Back to your bad day: People make plans; God laughs!
by Loftfield
Fri Jul 29, 2022 6:07 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: My chance to buy a 1910 Buick Model 14
Replies: 6
Views: 1436

Re: My chance to buy a 1910 Buick Model 14

If you get the Buick then the BrassBuicks noted above will be your best source of information, parts, etc. HCCA is another great place for brass era cars, parts, information. Hemmings will hep you with values, parts, information. I have a 1909 and 1910 Buick Model 10's, been there, done that, bought...
by Loftfield
Sat Jul 23, 2022 10:15 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Possible run of spare tire carriers.
Replies: 9
Views: 2352

Re: Possible run of spare tire carriers.

Please count me in for two sets.

Thomas Loftfield
by Loftfield
Tue Jul 19, 2022 6:10 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Parade Driving
Replies: 6
Views: 1226

Re: Parade Driving

And never, ever, get in line behind the horses!
by Loftfield
Tue Jul 19, 2022 6:05 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Model T Tour Guidance
Replies: 18
Views: 2280

Re: Model T Tour Guidance

Try contacting the Atlanta chapter of HCCA. They put on a wonderful Social Security Run tour for twenty-five years, have loads of experience in your area, know all the good places and stops to make, and how to organise for a grand experience. No need to reinvent the wheel.
by Loftfield
Thu Jun 16, 2022 7:08 am
Forum: Classifieds - Vehicles
Topic: Saharan Dust Invasion
Replies: 7
Views: 2050

Re: Saharan Dust Invasion

The dust visits the Caribbean every year. The iron in it kills coral. The thread belongs here if the dust dirties your carburetor, covers your shining paint, or gets into everything that needs oil or grease
by Loftfield
Thu Jun 02, 2022 6:47 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Rear wheel REALLY stuck
Replies: 31
Views: 3723

Re: Rear wheel REALLY stuck

My grandfather taught my dad who taught me: Don't force it, just get a bigger hammer!
by Loftfield
Wed May 25, 2022 7:07 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Thoughts on type of gas
Replies: 72
Views: 4683

Re: Thoughts on type of gas

Ethyl Corporation (General Motors) did not have leaded gasoline widely available until mid-late 20's, so no cars made before that time require or benefit from lead in the gas.The lead was added so GM could produce engines with higher compression to get more HP from a smaller block, $$$$$. I recently...
by Loftfield
Tue Apr 26, 2022 8:01 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: rear hub woe
Replies: 7
Views: 1287

rear hub woe

Driving the 1912 touring car down the driveway hill there was suddenly no brakes. Then no forward or reverse. Used the tractor let the car the rest of the way down the hill and pull it to the garage. Fearing the usual broken drive train innards, upon inspection it was discovered that the right rear ...
by Loftfield
Thu Mar 17, 2022 9:25 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: 1912 Authenticity Questions?
Replies: 24
Views: 3044

Re: 1912 Authenticity Questions?

I had all the wood in my 1912 "saved" by judicious use of a water-thin, penetrating epoxy (epoxy, not polyester). You might be able to adequately solidify the firewall from the edges, keeping the faces free to accept whatever stain you put to use, if you even bother to add stain. Try a good cleaning...
by Loftfield
Sun Mar 13, 2022 7:53 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Anybody remember J.C. Whitney?
Replies: 31
Views: 3443

Re: Anybody remember J.C. Whitney?

Yup, I remember J. C. Whitney, and Western Auto, and Monkey Ward, and a few other "suppliers" of parts when specialised Model T houses were just getting started. Surely a sign that I have accumulated an excess of years.