Search found 238 matches

by Fordwright
Sat Mar 08, 2025 12:09 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: All is not lost.
Replies: 41
Views: 23663

Re: All is not lost.

I don't think Ford could ever sell another 15 million Model Ts, but whenever I drive mine around people, which is often, it attracts interest from people of all sorts and all ages. It's unlikely that any great number of them are in a position to own a T, but a few might be. I try to communicate tha...
by Fordwright
Sat Jan 18, 2025 8:31 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: All is not lost.
Replies: 41
Views: 23663

Re: All is not lost.

I can visualize the feeling of excitement someone felt acquiring their first automobile, when all they had before was walking and horses. I can only imagine the feeling of pride and wellbeing from having this wonderful machine parked outside.
by Fordwright
Fri Dec 27, 2024 1:50 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: All is not lost.
Replies: 41
Views: 23663

Re: All is not lost.

The excuse is always "cost." But it's obvious that they just want to soak you for parts.
by Fordwright
Fri Dec 27, 2024 1:42 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Snowmobile ski question
Replies: 18
Views: 5315

Re: Snowmobile ski question

I am building skis for a snowmobile build and I am wondering do the original skis have a skeg down the middle of the bottom? And can I get width and lengh measurements. Thanks, Dennis Nowadays, some snowmobile skis have a tungsten carbide rib going down the middle. Expensive, but they don't wear do...
by Fordwright
Thu Dec 19, 2024 5:48 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: How it Happened
Replies: 3
Views: 1289

Re: How it Happened

Very interesting. A short, yet intriguing read. No explanation of its background or reason for being. A link to some sort of literary site that looks to be maybe quite interesting. I may need to check it out more later. Maybe this should be in "OT"? I don't know. But I enjoyed it. It could easily q...
by Fordwright
Thu Dec 19, 2024 2:15 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: How it Happened
Replies: 3
Views: 1289

How it Happened

by Fordwright
Tue Dec 10, 2024 12:37 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: 2025 Model T - built by Ford
Replies: 25
Views: 25130

Re: 2025 Model T - built by Ford

DHort wrote:
Wed Dec 04, 2024 6:54 pm


Electric
Any color you want
400hp
This reminds me of the "New VW Beetle" from a few years back. Not very successful as I recall.
The new model had modern convenience features, but none of the charm of the original.

Makes you wonder what Ford was thinking this time.
by Fordwright
Thu Dec 05, 2024 10:56 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

The Ford generator was a low-tension magneto, or alternator if you will. It then required additional stages to convert it to high-tension power for the ignition. Subsequent modern designs have done away with the additional stages, so it stands to reason that Ford could have simplified the design by ...
by Fordwright
Thu Dec 05, 2024 7:49 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

You don't need to participate,
if it's not your cup of tea.
by Fordwright
Wed Dec 04, 2024 7:45 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Jerry VanOoteghem wrote:
Wed Dec 04, 2024 6:35 pm
Is this still a Model T forum?
There are still plenty of relevant topics for you elsewhere.
by Fordwright
Wed Dec 04, 2024 2:29 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

I don't know the secret of filtering the truth from the trash on the internet,
But I know for sure, the wrong way is to pick only what you want from it.

There's a reason your mom didn't let you pick what you wanted off the plate and ignore the rest.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 9:12 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Tadpole wrote:
Mon Dec 02, 2024 7:47 pm
Fordwright wrote:
Mon Dec 02, 2024 7:40 pm
When you research everything you can lay your eyes on, there's a chance not all of it is BS.
That’s true, but how does one sort out the one truth from the other truths? Or the half-truths? Or the untruths? Or the double-truths?
You try not to guess.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 7:40 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

When you research everything you can lay your eyes on, there's a chance not all of it is BS.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 6:57 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Tadpole wrote:
Mon Dec 02, 2024 5:33 pm
I respect your confidence and willingness to engage in open conversation. You’ve got some stiff opposition here, but I’ve enjoyed learning your perspective.
I have no axe to grind. I'm only interested in facts.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 5:29 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Tadpole wrote:
Mon Dec 02, 2024 5:21 pm
Fordwright, I suppose that is your mission here? To knock him down a peg?
No more than he has earned.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 5:14 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

I don't want to deify Henry Ford, nor do I want to vilify him. But it wouldn't be fair to gloss over his faults, nor would it be right to glorify him. He was what he was, like most of us, a blend of good and bad traits.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 2:22 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Ford was too much of a perfectionist for his first two companies. His partners were fed up with him not meeting deadlines.
I think he learned to finalize his projects with his third and final company. Maybe a bit too much.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 12:10 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

"Good enough" is just good enough.
"Excellent" is excellent.
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 12:00 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

According to my dad, back in the day, sometimes a Model T would start itself when you turned on the ignition. I suppose everything had to be in perfect alignment for that rare event to happen. But if the distributor and the pistons were in the right position, just the battery power was enough to cre...
by Fordwright
Mon Dec 02, 2024 10:32 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Henry Ford was well known for sticking with something long after it was obsolete. In the mid 20s, his Ford Tri-motor was cutting-edge, but by the early 30s, it was hopelessly outclassed by Douglas aircraft and others. He only reluctantly closed down his airplane operations because it had no market a...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 9:24 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

It would seem that the lack of reliability in high tension magnetos of the day has been disregarded. In the early days of automotive history, the contact points were of very poor material for the needed amperage and constant beating they took. Coils failed regularly (and still do) due in part to hi...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 9:15 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

It would seem that the lack of reliability in high tension magnetos of the day has been disregarded. In the early days of automotive history, the contact points were of very poor material for the needed amperage and constant beating they took. Coils failed regularly (and still do) due in part to hi...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 7:13 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

With any project, there are those who wonder what is happening, there are those who watch it happen, and then, there are those who make it happen. Art Mirtes For those at the creation of the Model T, it must have been an exciting time to be making history, but just as heartbreaking when it all went...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 5:32 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

With any project, there are those who wonder what is happening, there are those who watch it happen, and then, there are those who make it happen. Art Mirtes For those at the creation of the Model T, it must have been an exciting time to be making history, but just as heartbreaking when it all went...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 3:52 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

If you choose to believe only the positive spin, that's your choice. I don't, but neither do I believe the worst.
I happen to believe that the truth resides somewhere in between, and I feel the more I learn, the closer to the mark I come.
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 2:06 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Additionally, I don’t think “cozy friendship” accurately describes the relationship between two men who never met. I imagine being admired by a powerful world leader instilled some pride in the Pre-War Mr. Ford, Post-War not so much. I don't think Herr Hitler would have had Ford's portrait on his w...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 1:48 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Additionally, I don’t think “cozy friendship” accurately describes the relationship between two men who never met. I imagine being admired by a powerful world leader instilled some pride in the Pre-War Mr. Ford, Post-War not so much. I don't think Herr Hitler would have had Ford's portrait on his w...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 12:45 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

If Ford was only in it for the money he would not have cut his prices every time he could. He also paid his workers more than anyone else basically giving money away. The Ford PR department may want you to believe that, but the truth is that the assembly line was brutal on most workers. He couldn't...
by Fordwright
Sun Dec 01, 2024 12:42 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

We tend to ignore a basic fact of the Model T. For most of the production run Henry had a big problem, he could not build them fast enough. The popularity caused a very rapid rise in sales and the production had to try to keep up. He had such a large market share that today would call it a monopoly...
by Fordwright
Sat Nov 30, 2024 10:58 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

If you want needlessly complicated look at the vehicles made today Do you think modern cars would be more successful if they were simpler? I tend to think they have already simplified the manufacture as much as technology will allow, while providing the features that the consumers demand. The '64 C...
by Fordwright
Sat Nov 30, 2024 10:53 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

We tend to ignore a basic fact of the Model T. For most of the production run Henry had a big problem, he could not build them fast enough. The popularity caused a very rapid rise in sales and the production had to try to keep up. He had such a large market share that today would call it a monopoly...
by Fordwright
Sat Nov 30, 2024 9:05 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

All Model A cars had starters, which require a storage battery and generator, while all Model T cars did not. The advent of the sliding gear transmission and flywheel clutch probably made the flywheel magneto impractical. By 1919, Model Ts had electric starters and batteries, which could be used to...
by Fordwright
Sat Nov 30, 2024 12:46 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Since Ford never built a simpler high-tension magneto for the Model T, we'll never know.
By the time of the Model A, the low tension power system was intrinsic to the design, so points and condenser were the best way to go.
by Fordwright
Sat Nov 30, 2024 11:12 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Growing up on a farm, all our small engines had points and condenser ignition, which required a low-tension power source from a separate generator. Nowadays, they are much simpler. Just a magnet on the flywheel, rotating past a high-tension coil, connected directly to the spark plug. The low-tension...
by Fordwright
Fri Nov 29, 2024 10:37 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Fordwright is right when Ford called it good when Spider Huff designed the Model T ignition system. It may have been a little behind in design but for what it’s worth after nearly 100 years later it was good enough to sell over 15,000,000 Model T’s. As most of us know by now it was really hard for ...
by Fordwright
Fri Nov 29, 2024 5:17 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Personally, I think Henry Ford was a bit afraid of electrical machinery. He was hired by Edison to work on the steam engines, not the dynamos. Spider Huff was given the task of designing the ignition system for the Model T, but I think his skill level was about 20 years behind the times. Henry Ford ...
by Fordwright
Fri Nov 29, 2024 2:11 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

Re: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Sometimes Ford engineers "invented" their way around patented features to avoid the expense of paying royalties. An important factor in Ford's success was cutting unnecessary and avoidable expenses. That's probably what they did, but I think they would have made more headway with a high-tension mag...
by Fordwright
Thu Nov 28, 2024 4:49 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated
Replies: 113
Views: 20111

The Model T ignition was needlessly overcomplicated

Hindsight is 20/20, but the Model T could have had direct magneto ignition from the outset. Spider Huff did a good job designing the ignition system that had been around since about 1900, but there wasn't really any need for the way it was made in 1908. All that was needed was a simple magneto, driv...
by Fordwright
Thu Feb 29, 2024 1:42 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: First car
Replies: 17
Views: 3245

Re: First car

I would love to have lived in those days, when the horseless carriage was just becoming affordable.
by Fordwright
Fri Feb 02, 2024 5:42 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: If you could ask Henry a question ...
Replies: 40
Views: 7213

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

I understand the part of Henry Ford who was the old time traditional farmer. Being deeply cynical of mankind and often racist, I imagine as he became the world's richest man, he began to feel empowered to "set the world right."
Something no one can do, of course.
by Fordwright
Fri Jan 26, 2024 4:50 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: If you could ask Henry a question ...
Replies: 40
Views: 7213

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

The Ford Model T was a great gift to humankind and a big step forward for civilization, and for that we owe Henry Ford a large tribute. But much like his mentor, Thomas Edison, his accomplishments and wealth gave him self-entitlement to become a monster, ruining many lives and nearly destroying the ...
by Fordwright
Fri Jan 05, 2024 1:22 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Ever seen a rusted out Model T?
Replies: 20
Views: 4028

Ever seen a rusted out Model T?

I'm sure they exist, but I don't recall seeing one. Was vanadium steel all that rust-resistant?
by Fordwright
Tue Dec 26, 2023 1:22 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: 1910 Ford Model T conquers Mount Shasta... well kind of...
Replies: 4
Views: 1365

Re: 1910 Ford Model T conquers Mount Shasta... well kind of...

How did they keep it from stalling out from gas starvation? They had to climb hills in reverse back in the day because the gravity-flow fuel tank was in the wrong place.
by Fordwright
Tue Dec 26, 2023 1:13 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Reproduction Exhaust Pipe
Replies: 17
Views: 3094

Re: Reproduction Exhaust Pipe

Stainless steel would be my choice, even though it wasn't yet invented at the time of the Model T.
Most people wouldn't spot the difference.
by Fordwright
Thu Dec 21, 2023 1:37 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: State of the art in 1906
Replies: 9
Views: 1899

State of the art in 1906

Most of the mechanical innovations that we see today had been introduced by 1906, albeit often in primitive form. Carburation, wet-cell batteries, roller-bearings, to name a scant few. But reliability had largely not been achieved. Having a mechanic on-board was still fairly necessary in many cases....
by Fordwright
Thu Dec 21, 2023 1:24 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?
Replies: 89
Views: 22199

Re: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?

Most restorations that I have seen (not just for automobiles) have been able to achieve a balance between restoring those components which have deteriorated with age, back to proper function. And preserving the patina and other signs of age, which do not otherwise impair normal function. I agree and...
by Fordwright
Tue Oct 10, 2023 12:02 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?
Replies: 89
Views: 22199

Re: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?

I'm bothered by a restoration that has obvious modern features added; like digital gauges, LED lighting or even custom floor mats. I don't mind if it has modern reproduction parts, as long as they conform to the original. Nothing irks me like seeing an alternator on a vintage vehicle. In my mind, ev...
by Fordwright
Sat Oct 07, 2023 3:09 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Magneto battery charger
Replies: 41
Views: 13750

Re: Magneto battery charger

Never hook up modern electronics to the Model T electric system.
Like building a day care center in a lion cage.
by Fordwright
Tue Aug 02, 2022 1:18 pm
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: This was trucking-Old Photos
Replies: 1467
Views: 1137640

Re: This was trucking-Old Photos

Growing up on a farm, I don't know anyone who never overloaded a truck.
by Fordwright
Sun Feb 06, 2022 2:20 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Snyders modern 12v starter
Replies: 79
Views: 21066

Re: Snyders modern 12v starter

I've always assumed that most 12 volt starters were wired the same as 6 volt starters. When cars converted to 12 volts from 6, they changed the bulbs, rewired the generators and wired a resistor to the ignition coils. The starters stayed the same, they only cranked faster on 12 volts.
by Fordwright
Sun Feb 06, 2022 12:40 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Magneto battery charger
Replies: 41
Views: 13750

Re: Magneto battery charger

I wouldn't risk connecting my phone to dirty power. Voltage spikes have an erosive effect on electronics, similar to the way gravel roads damage nice paint jobs. If I were serious about charging my phone in a Model T, I'd use a good power filter, an isolation transformer or a power bank.
by Fordwright
Sun Feb 06, 2022 12:26 pm
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: This was trucking-Old Photos
Replies: 1467
Views: 1137640

Re: This was trucking-Old Photos

A lot of excessive horsepower nowadays comes from impatience. My dad hauled a caterpillar on a 1945 GMC with a 216 ci engine. You just used a lower gear. You still got there soon enough. Nowadays, some people are never satisfied, and frequently use the word "underpowered." What that means is that so...
by Fordwright
Mon Jan 24, 2022 12:34 pm
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: This was trucking-Old Photos
Replies: 1467
Views: 1137640

Re: This was trucking-Old Photos

Reading some of the old local histories for this area and others, it's evident that bridge failures were a fairly frequent occurrence in the early 20th century. I'm assuming that most of them were built by locals, and were deemed "good enough" by their own standards, but things changed with more big...
by Fordwright
Fri Dec 31, 2021 11:37 am
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: This was trucking-Old Photos
Replies: 1467
Views: 1137640

Re: This was trucking-Old Photos

Solid wheels, rubber and otherwise seemed to be the norm.
Probably a carryover from the old lumber wagon days;
"lumberwagon" became a euphemism for a very rough ride.
by Fordwright
Wed Oct 13, 2021 1:22 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Plastic Cased Coils….
Replies: 10
Views: 3154

Re: Plastic Cased Coils….

Greg: Plastic cased coils and wood cased 'ford' coils function alike. On magneto, both types fire during rising or falling portions of the AC voltage wave form. The magnets are 'timed', that is positioned on the flywheel to give 'optimal' but discreet firing times. Ron Patterson has written several...
by Fordwright
Sun Oct 10, 2021 7:21 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Plastic Cased Coils….
Replies: 10
Views: 3154

Re: Plastic Cased Coils….

No idea how well they work with a magneto, but certainly for battery operation I don't see any problem with them. I've wondered about that myself. The magneto produces alternating current, which seems like it might disrupt the resonance between the condenser and the coil. Obviously it works on both...
by Fordwright
Thu Sep 02, 2021 10:59 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Compressing Radiator Mounting Springs.
Replies: 13
Views: 2945

Re: Compressing Radiator Mounting Springs.

Just a thought. How about compressing them in a vise and tying them with twine, then cutting the twine after they are installed?
by Fordwright
Fri Aug 13, 2021 1:19 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Seeking Information
Replies: 5
Views: 1696

Re: Seeking Information

Something here might possibly help:
https://www.ledlight.com/ledlight-6-vol ... talog.aspx
by Fordwright
Sat Jun 12, 2021 1:27 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: More on charging a phone with a 6 volt battery
Replies: 14
Views: 3780

Re: More on charging a phone with a 6 volt battery

Next, they'll want to install a OBD port.
by Fordwright
Wed Jun 09, 2021 4:40 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: More on charging a phone with a 6 volt battery
Replies: 14
Views: 3780

Re: More on charging a phone with a 6 volt battery

I wasn't too clear either. Using a 12V to 5V converter will probably not work on a 6V system. It depends on the specs of the components. Just hooking a USB phone charger cord to 6V will probably work because most power regulators in the phone will have no trouble converting 6V to 5V, which the phone...
by Fordwright
Wed Jun 09, 2021 1:54 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: More on charging a phone with a 6 volt battery
Replies: 14
Views: 3780

Re: More on charging a phone with a 6 volt battery

If it were just for me, I'd connect a USB power outlet directly to the 6V system. Most phones have good power regulators that will adjust and filter the power to charge the phone.

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/82 ... 1532551500
by Fordwright
Mon May 24, 2021 8:44 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: 1926 Ford Model T modification
Replies: 27
Views: 7083

Re: 1926 Ford Model T modification

Ammeters are fine for seeing how much current is flowing back and forth, but a voltmeter will help you a lot more in protecting your battery.
You wouldn't have to modify the instrument panel at all, just run a wire to a convenient place where you can mount a voltmeter.
by Fordwright
Mon May 10, 2021 12:30 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: When Did Model T's Stop Being Cool
Replies: 39
Views: 9566

Re: When Did Model T's Stop Being Cool

They were cool in 1908; the coolest thing. Even cooler in 1915, but by the mid 20s they were the ugly duckling of the automotive world.

Ford was a lot of things, but his biggest contribution to society was to break the paradigm: "You can have it cheap or good, but not both."
He gave us both.
by Fordwright
Sat May 08, 2021 3:15 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: When Did Model T's Stop Being Cool
Replies: 39
Views: 9566

Re: When Did Model T's Stop Being Cool

I think each car tells a different story. If it spent most of it's life in a garage, I could tolerate some new rubber and a few paint blemishes,
but if it was restored faithfully from a pile of junk, I can forgive a lot more modernities. What I find hard to tolerate is a customized "hot rod."
by Fordwright
Sat May 08, 2021 3:01 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Perfection never needs to change
Replies: 5
Views: 2428

Perfection never needs to change

Or so Henry Ford seemed to believe. He was nearly right. He came closer to perfecting the automobile in the 1920s than anyone else; it had everything you need, and nothing you don't. There were countless add-on accessories for that. But there's really nothing perfect, and we all know that he was ver...
by Fordwright
Wed Apr 28, 2021 3:10 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: And now, for something entirely different !
Replies: 18
Views: 4844

Re: And now, for something entirely different !

That photo popped up somewhere else but I can't recall where. Someone mentioned those were 16" Chevy wheels. I don't know. Also the location was mentioned but I lost track. :roll: Seeing the crank and crankcase tells me it could be driven but visibility would be a challenge. Thanks for bring it to ...
by Fordwright
Tue Apr 20, 2021 12:26 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?
Replies: 89
Views: 22199

Re: Model T philosophy: What is a restoration?

Personally, I don't mind a few remanufactured parts, but I draw the line on customization. I feel offended to see a vintage car dressed up with custom car accessories all over it. If you want a stereo, bring a boombox. If you want to charge your phone, bring a power pack. Don't mutilate a vintage cl...
by Fordwright
Mon Apr 12, 2021 1:44 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Who inspired Henry Ford?
Replies: 16
Views: 4428

Re: Who inspired Henry Ford?

Henry Ford was fascinated with watches as a child. He learned to take them apart and reassemble them at an early age. Georges Frederic Roskopf developed “La Prolétaire” (People's Watch) in 1867, intended to be affordable by the masses. I suppose it's possible that young Henry would have known about...
by Fordwright
Mon Apr 12, 2021 1:24 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Who inspired Henry Ford?
Replies: 16
Views: 4428

Re: Who inspired Henry Ford?

FreighTer Jim wrote:
Mon Apr 12, 2021 1:50 am
Henry Ford amassed the power to change recorded events to favor his version of Reaiity.

“ Inspiration “ can be defined in many different ways.

FJ
There's often a very ugly side to total self-actualization.
by Fordwright
Mon Apr 12, 2021 12:09 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Faster, Better or Cheaper- Pick Two
Replies: 8
Views: 3057

Re: Faster, Better or Cheaper- Pick Two

"But successful people are breaking that paradigm all the time" You are correct Sir! I will add a 4th part to this....The ability to succeed at doing the three listed & still make damn good money while the others "flounder" & are happy to "break even at the end of the year". Unfortunately in doing ...
by Fordwright
Sun Apr 11, 2021 9:26 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Who inspired Henry Ford?
Replies: 16
Views: 4428

Who inspired Henry Ford?

Henry Ford was fascinated with watches as a child. He learned to take them apart and reassemble them at an early age. Georges Frederic Roskopf developed “La Prolétaire” (People's Watch) in 1867, intended to be affordable by the masses. I suppose it's possible that young Henry would have known about ...
by Fordwright
Sun Apr 11, 2021 3:41 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Faster, Better or Cheaper- Pick Two
Replies: 8
Views: 3057

Faster, Better or Cheaper- Pick Two

I used to believe that old axiom when I was younger, then I went to work and learned it was mostly a story for telling customers. But successful people are breaking that paradigm all the time - Henry Ford was one of them. General Motors tried to corner the market on automobiles and would have been h...
by Fordwright
Thu Apr 08, 2021 1:59 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Model T/Model A Song 1928
Replies: 9
Views: 3333

Re: Model T/Model A Song 1928

I'm just a 17 year-old kid who repairs antiques, listens to early "jass," and wants a "T." All of these attributes made me want to repair an old gramophone, pick up some '10s and '20s jass/jazz records, and fall in love with one of the records, "Henry's Made a Lady Out of Lizzie." Thought you might...
by Fordwright
Mon Mar 29, 2021 1:04 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Coolant
Replies: 34
Views: 6601

Re: Coolant

Too much water, it can freeze.
Too much glycol, it will gel.
by Fordwright
Fri Mar 26, 2021 8:03 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Canadian Wire Wheel Hubcaps
Replies: 5
Views: 2709

Re: Canadian Wire Wheel Hubcaps

Harry Lillo wrote:
Fri Mar 26, 2021 7:04 pm
Greg,
Do you have dies to make wire wheel hub caps?
Harry
I joked.
by Fordwright
Fri Mar 26, 2021 2:52 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Canadian Wire Wheel Hubcaps
Replies: 5
Views: 2709

Re: Canadian Wire Wheel Hubcaps

I could lend you some dies.
by Fordwright
Fri Mar 26, 2021 1:10 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Ford, Cadillac, Overland, Thomas and others. Another story......
Replies: 14
Views: 3340

Re: Ford, Cadillac, Overland, Thomas and others. Another story......

Rob wrote:
Fri Mar 26, 2021 12:04 pm
And another of the Reddy six cylinder Ford, seen in a Portland newspaper:


502287D6-CAA3-4858-9837-451A8EDBAB95.jpeg


Next, moving on through 1907, into 1908 and 1909.
Looks like a taxi from Pakistan.
by Fordwright
Fri Mar 26, 2021 11:49 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Ford, Cadillac, Overland, Thomas and others. Another story......
Replies: 14
Views: 3340

Re: Ford, Cadillac, Overland, Thomas and others. Another story......

I believe the article is referring to the Ford Model K, a car with 40 hp motor that had 6 cylinders and a displacement of 405 cubic inch.
It sold for $2500 - $2800 but it was still one of the most popular cars in 1906-1907. Ford would never again return to a 6-cylinder car until 1941.
by Fordwright
Thu Mar 11, 2021 12:58 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Porcenlin liscense plate restoration
Replies: 15
Views: 4096

Re: Porcenlin liscense plate restoration

Yeah, don't give that autocorrect any help at all.
by Fordwright
Wed Mar 10, 2021 4:33 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Kerosene lamp questions
Replies: 13
Views: 3720

Re: Kerosene lamp questions

I'm not sure Ford was making their own kerosene lamps at that time. It could have been a supplier that equipped several car brands also.
by Fordwright
Mon Mar 01, 2021 12:09 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?
Replies: 72
Views: 17305

Re: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?

It was Henry Ford's personality as a farmer and a tinker that caused him to eschew normal business practices, and build the best car that could be made for the masses at the time. He split with investors and bankers who wanted him to follow normal business advice that exploited the customer to extra...
by Fordwright
Thu Feb 25, 2021 11:20 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?
Replies: 72
Views: 17305

Re: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?

Imagine the revelation that you might be able to afford an automobile, something that was always just a dream and impossibly out of reach. Akin to nowadays gaining access to the worldwide web or maybe even a chance to visit space. More than just a horseless carriage, it was the finest thing many peo...
by Fordwright
Sun Feb 21, 2021 1:17 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?
Replies: 72
Views: 17305

Re: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?

In my Dad's time, the Model T was a poor man's starter car. Like a Pacer might be today. As soon as they could afford it, they got a '29 Chev, and then better cars from there. There was never any love lost between them and the Model T.
by Fordwright
Fri Feb 19, 2021 2:15 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?
Replies: 72
Views: 17305

Re: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?

I must admit; the Model T has lost some of its charm for me, having read frank accounts about the personality of the man who created it.
by Fordwright
Fri Feb 19, 2021 1:42 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?
Replies: 72
Views: 17305

Re: What to you, gives a Model T its charm?

If you read Tin Lizzie it gives a very good account of the New Ford that Henry wrecked!! In 1911 or 12 Edsel would have been very young,and his name was not mentioned in the story! The actual story say"s Henry wrecked the car with his hands and feet,no sledge hammer!! :D Please read Tin Lizzie by S...
by Fordwright
Wed Feb 03, 2021 1:51 pm
Forum: OT - Off topic
Topic: Show us your hit n miss engines
Replies: 61
Views: 25264

Re: Show us your hit n miss engines

Burger in Spokane wrote:
Sun Jan 31, 2021 12:49 am
I recently helped my brother rescue an upright boiler from a barn
and am utterly fascinated with it. It looks like it would take little
work to build it back to functional as shop power or something similar.
First lesson of restoration:
What looks like a little usually ends up being a lot.
by Fordwright
Tue Jan 19, 2021 12:34 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Electric Model T?
Replies: 13
Views: 3418

Electric Model T?

Has anyone made an electric Model T? I think it would be great to drive it without the annoying engine sound.
by Fordwright
Fri Jan 15, 2021 9:25 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Resistance: How many ohms are acceptable?
Replies: 10
Views: 4748

Re: Resistance: How many ohms are acceptable?

Zero resistance isn't really possible, especially with some of the older metals. Remember, amps = voltage ÷ resistance.
So 12 volts ÷ 0.3 ohms = 40 amps.
by Fordwright
Fri Jan 15, 2021 9:18 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Was the Model T good value for money?
Replies: 19
Views: 5067

Re: Was the Model T good value for money?

This is getting political so I'll stop, but blaming others for our problems won't accomplish a thing.
We need to remember that our powers of innovation are unsurpassed.
by Fordwright
Thu Jan 14, 2021 3:58 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Was the Model T good value for money?
Replies: 19
Views: 5067

Re: Was the Model T good value for money?

TWrenn wrote:
Thu Jan 14, 2021 3:22 pm
The other point is about China itself...DON'T TRUST THEM! How quickly we forget they are COMMUNIST.
And of course, look what they "gave" us last winter! :twisted: :evil:
Calm down, they make good stuff, in fact nearly everything is made there.
by Fordwright
Thu Jan 14, 2021 2:50 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Was the Model T good value for money?
Replies: 19
Views: 5067

Re: Was the Model T good value for money?

Well, the point I guess is that cars are about as affordable now as they were in the 1920s.
by Fordwright
Thu Jan 14, 2021 11:48 am
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Was the Model T good value for money?
Replies: 19
Views: 5067

Was the Model T good value for money?

In 1908 the Model T cost $850, or around $21,340 in today's dollars when adjusted for inflation. In 1916, the prices had dropped to only $360 for the most basic Model T, or around $7,020 in today's dollars. Dec 20, 2012 I'm not so sure they can't do better nowadays, considering what you got for you...
by Fordwright
Sun Jan 10, 2021 1:36 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Starter Switch Problem
Replies: 30
Views: 6075

Re: Starter Switch Problem

Welded contacts is a common design problem with high-tension switches.
That's why they have strong springs.
by Fordwright
Sun Jan 10, 2021 1:33 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: looking for suggestions on location of battery cut off switch
Replies: 31
Views: 7352

Re: looking for suggestions on location of battery cut off switch

I'd put it near the driver's seat in an obscure location because I'd be sure to forget to turn it on most of the time.
by Fordwright
Tue Oct 27, 2020 2:19 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Bat or Mag start?
Replies: 15
Views: 3941

Re: Bat or Mag start?

The Model T magneto was unregulated and provided AC voltages from 0-30V. The addition of dry cells did make starting easier, particularly if wired in series to provide over 6 volts DC. This was particularly useful in cold weather, but without a battery, a burly man could still crank the engine hard ...
by Fordwright
Wed Oct 07, 2020 3:03 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Are These Irons Restorable?
Replies: 23
Views: 5112

Re: Are These Irons Restorable?

I don't know anyone who restores old things for profit. It's the joy of taking something that appears to be too far gone, and bringing it back to a useable condition. There's no accounting for the time and money you spend doing that.
by Fordwright
Tue Oct 06, 2020 2:21 pm
Forum: General Discussion Forum
Topic: Are These Irons Restorable?
Replies: 23
Views: 5112

Re: Are These Irons Restorable?

Anything is restorable, if you have unlimited time and money,
but what else is new?