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Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 8:36 pm
by Shane Lach
Late last year I bought a frame and running gear to begin building my own speedster. The chassis had been modified in a very hokey way and I went through and undid/ modified what had been done. This thread will be very photo heavy as it's easier to explain visually.
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Originally the frame was lowered with angle it on and a modified rear cross member. I cut all that off and came up with something else.
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This ended up being a bad idea because the frame and spring interfered. That was a week or two down the drain.

The rear lowering did however work out. I bought the cast lowering brackets and a lowering cross member for a combined 7" drop. This car will be about as low as I can make it and still be drivable.

I stripped, blasted, and painted the front axle, as well as chopped up the front wishbone to be mounted to the frame.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 8:39 pm
by Henry K. Lee
Looking Good Shane, keep us posted!

All the Best,

Hank in Tin-A-See

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 8:48 pm
by Shane Lach
Here's the beginning of the split wishbone and mount. I'm using bolts temporarily for mock up. I will be using rivets later on for final assembly.
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I cut the wishbone then inserted a good chunk of model a tie rod inside, then plug welded, welded the seam of the wishbone, and the end. I am going to install spring perches and welding another pipe to make them into a hairpin design for more strength. I made a 3/16 inch plate with a model a steering ball swedged and welded. I'll be modifying the mounts for a bit more strength in the future.
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I picked up an old 2 tooth model a steering box and started mocking it up to figure out where it was going to sit and work. I want a real low steering column angle and tried to get it as close to the pedals while still being able to push them. Also, I am mounting the box as far inboard as possible. I really enjoy the early Sprint cars, but wanted a speedster to drive more casually as well. So this will be my iteration of a street able racer.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:00 pm
by Shane Lach
This is about when I met my friend Rob Weitzel. I had been posting here and there searching for a Whippet radiator. He mentioned that he had one. I bugged him about selling me one of his and he gladly did to help me keep my project rolling. Rob has been a key factor to this project and has been a ton of help.
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The shell of the Whippet radiator he sold me was crusty on the bottom. I cut it out, shaped a patch, and welded it up. I had just bought my first welder a week before so this was the first little welding project for me.
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Here's a couple more column mock ups and the beginning of the body.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:09 pm
by Shane Lach
I will be running the 2 tooth box, model a drag link in a modified length, and model a steering arms in model T spindles. The arms bolt right in.
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So there was a lot of measuring, cutting, swearing, creating fire wood, etc. Here's some photos of the prototyping.
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I created a dash, then mounted up a rough firewall. I ran strings from the dash to the radiator. I stapled a piece of cardboard to the rough fire wall then slit the cardboard until the string ran straight through while taught. Once I did this about 50 times I got a good half profile of the firewall shape I wanted after trimming the cardboard at each slit to flow well from radiator to dash.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:13 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:17 pm
by Shane Lach
Here's where I got a new phone with a better camera.

This is a clearer view on how I got my firewall shape. I ended up doing this multiple times because I didn't like the body shape. I spent a month playing with cardboard I think.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:21 pm
by Shane Lach
I spent a lot of time playing with cheaper plywood as well as card board and more string as I didn't want to waste good materials while I was still processing ideas.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:28 pm
by Shane Lach
Found some sweet old hood straps for future use.
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After a lot of modifying I ran a paper template I was happy with.
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Because the rear cross member sat above the frame line, I had to come up with a bracket that supported the tail. Weld project number 2.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:30 pm
by Shane Lach
I then took my cheap plywood panels and transferred them to nicer materials.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:35 pm
by Shane Lach
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This shows the updated front lowering design. I did a Z bracket from the first cross member I made. The model T cross member has been set back 6" in the frame for a better balance and the raked out look of the old racers.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:41 pm
by Shane Lach
I then bought some sheet metal!
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Began flaring the cowl. Do not use heat. That was a huge mistake.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:43 pm
by Shane Lach
More flaring. All hammer and dolly. I don't own any nice fancy tools.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:48 pm
by Shane Lach
I whipped up a quick hood to lay on and had to throw the straps on obviously.
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Then moved back to the tail skeleton/buck.
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More paper and templates!
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:50 pm
by Shane Lach
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Performing some shaping and tuck shrinking

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:52 pm
by Shane Lach
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Not too shabby I guess for no sheet metal skill

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:53 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:54 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:56 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:57 pm
by Shane Lach
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Little brother totally approves.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 9:59 pm
by Shane Lach
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Modified the bottom of the tail for less downward sweep. The car will eventually have skirts and I'd like them to flow with the tail.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:01 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:02 pm
by Shane Lach
Making a tail finisher panel
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:03 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:05 pm
by Shane Lach
So yeah. That's about 6 months condensed into 2 hours of staring at my phone posting photos. That's about it for now. I hope to keep progress rolling along as well as it has been. Sorry I got less detailed as I posted progress.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:22 pm
by Henry K. Lee
Shane, Big Kudo’s!

For a guy who coached himself, EXCELLENT!

Be proud young man!

All the Best,

Hank in Tin-A-See

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:24 pm
by Shane Lach
Thanks Hank! It's been a lot of learning along the way with some guidance from others. Tons of trial and even more error lol.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:25 pm
by Dennis Prince
Very nice, great workmanship. I am impressed. Keep us updated on progress.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:29 pm
by Rob
That's great! I envy your skill and perseverance. It's going to be a great runner. Thank you again for posting.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:30 pm
by Ruxstel24
EXCELLENT !! Great work !!
Looks like a fuselage design, are you putting wings on next ? :D

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:55 pm
by Chris Instness
Very nice design and workmanship! Thanks for sharing.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Mar 05, 2019 11:06 pm
by AndyClary
Good job Shane. It's not really how you get it done, just getting it done is an accomplishment. Sometimes the fancy machines just fill the scrap pile faster.

Andy

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 2:17 am
by 46woodduck
One word pretty well sums it up Shane...WOW!! I'm really looking forward to following your progress on this build.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 2:58 am
by Mindless Automaton
If that's no skill then i have negative skill. Thought it came out well.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 8:11 am
by John Warren
Very Nice, you are talented. Great coverage of the project. Thanks so much for taking us along

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 9:22 am
by Shane Lach
Thanks guys.
Ruxstel24 wrote:
Tue Mar 05, 2019 10:30 pm
EXCELLENT !! Great work !!
Looks like a fuselage design, are you putting wings on next ? :D
I really like the streamline design of the old sprint cars, but didn't want to do a single seat center steer setup with this one. Down the road I would like to build an all out sprint car. Wings are still on the drawing board :lol:
Mindless Automaton wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 2:58 am
If that's no skill then i have negative skill. Thought it came out well.
Thanks!. Before this project, I had not done any sheet metal fab or welding. I find a lot of things to be intimidating at first but the more I apply myself the easier its come. That and youtube how-tos hahahah. I still get intimidated with every step I take but once I get the juices flowing it seems to come easy.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 10:09 am
by Scott_Conger
Outstanding!

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 10:20 am
by Rich Eagle
It is so much fun to look at someone else's project. What a great workman you are.
Thanks for posting it.
Rich

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 10:57 am
by George Andreasen
THAT is the way a speedster should be built! I have a question though......you weren't clear as to whether using heat on the sheet metal was a mistake or not. Seems to me that heat would definitely be necessary in order to form the panels without distortion. Or did I read that wrong? (probably)

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 11:21 am
by Shane Lach
George Andreasen wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 10:57 am
THAT is the way a speedster should be built! I have a question though......you weren't clear as to whether using heat on the sheet metal was a mistake or not. Seems to me that heat would definitely be necessary in order to form the panels without distortion. Or did I read that wrong? (probably)
Heat was a big mistake for steel. My initial thought was to anneal but that really only works with aluminum (so I learned afterwards). Being a steel body, all I caused with the heat was a bunch of shrinking, buckling, and warping. Cold forming works much better.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 2:20 pm
by Mark Nunn
Shane Lach wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 11:21 am
My initial thought was to anneal but that really only works with aluminum...
Heat age-hardens aluminum.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 2:36 pm
by Randall strickland
Nicely done!

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 3:04 pm
by Alan
Great work Shane. You're an inspiration for all of us! Keep up the good work and keep us posted.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 5:54 pm
by dobro1956
Very nicely done. I agree with the just start on it and then do it approach. That's how my speedster project is being built .... Keep us posted, its nice to see someone else's project as it is progressing ........

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 6:04 pm
by Henry K. Lee
This is what the Hobby Doctor ordered, interaction! We need to assist, coach, mentor each other in order for this and all hobbies to survive!

Shared ideas make not only for a great hobby but it fosters the human spirit and builds confidence. Shane you being younger than most of us, I applaud you beyond words. I question a lot of what is wrong with a younger generation and getting involved. Shane, Thank You for lifting me up!

Call me if you need my assistance, you have my number!

All the Best and keep it UP!

Hank in Tin-A-See

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 7:23 pm
by Michael Peternell
Your build is awesome!!! Very cool field stone basement garage?!! Just asking.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 7:32 pm
by Shane Lach
Henry K. Lee wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 6:04 pm
This is what the Hobby Doctor ordered, interaction! We need to assist, coach, mentor each other in order for this and all hobbies to survive!

Shared ideas make not only for a great hobby but it fosters the human spirit and builds confidence. Shane you being younger than most of us, I applaud you beyond words. I question a lot of what is wrong with a younger generation and getting involved. Shane, Thank You for lifting me up!

Call me if you need my assistance, you have my number!

All the Best and keep it UP!

Hank in Tin-A-See
I appreciate the kind words. I always wish there were more build threads, and then realize I'm guilty myself of not sharing my work much as well. I'm going to try to keep up with posting here.

I wish there were more younger guys into stuff like this as well but a lot would rather watch others do things on Instagram and YouTube. I'll keep in touch!

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 7:36 pm
by Shane Lach
Michael Peternell wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 7:23 pm
Your build is awesome!!! Very cool field stone basement garage?!! Just asking.

You got it! The house was built in 1880. I was told it was an old school which was disassembled and relocated here in Milford, NH. I bought it 3 years ago and love it. It has its quirks and takes maintenance but it's a labor of love.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 8:25 pm
by Michael Peternell
A picture of the garage from the outside would be appreciated if you could. Guessing it will only add to your build thread.
Just saying. :D

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 8:49 pm
by spadpilot
Shane.....that is outrageous workmanship. You're on your way to creating a masterpiece. Do keep in touch with Hank Lee, he has a wealth of knowledge tucked away that he is always willing to share. He has been the savior of my speedster project! Looking forward to seeing the grand finale.
Best
Dave

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 9:01 pm
by dobro1956
I going to go out on a limb and guess.... I think that there is no garage. That is probably the basement of his house .... I also love the field stone walls. ... As to the amount of new "young guns" They are out there.... Im hoping the proportion of young car guys is at least the same as years ago.. When I was in high school 1972-1975 there were two guys in my whole school that could be considered "gear heads" me and a guy named Steve ... (not that Steve :) ). And there were maybe a half dozen car guys that liked old cars, hot rods, street machines, ect. But they did very little work on the cars themselves.... That was for me and Steve to do and be considered the "car gods" of Leslie Arkansas . :) :) .. So there was really not that many of the gear heads back then as often though. So it really makes me feel good when someone like Shane is out there carrying on the hobby ...... keep us posted on any progress ....

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 06, 2019 9:23 pm
by Barth_Tool_Co
My kinda basement! I think my wife is glad my shop is an outbuilding... don't think she's fond of the smells and noises that come out of the garage during peak working hours, let alone have it under the house :lol:

Great work on the body, keep it up!

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 6:50 am
by Tom Hicks
That is a beautiful car, you are really skilled to both design AND build. Thanks for taking the time to stop and take pictures along the way, and for posting them.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 8:32 am
by Shane Lach
Barth_Tool_Co wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 9:23 pm
My kinda basement! I think my wife is glad my shop is an outbuilding... don't think she's fond of the smells and noises that come out of the garage during peak working hours, let alone have it under the house :lol:

Great work on the body, keep it up!
Speaking of smells, the past few days I have been applying resin to seal the wood of the tail. She wasn't quite the happiest :lol:

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 8:38 am
by Shane Lach
dobro1956 wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 9:01 pm
I going to go out on a limb and guess.... I think that there is no garage. That is probably the basement of his house .... I also love the field stone walls. ... As to the amount of new "young guns" They are out there.... Im hoping the proportion of young car guys is at least the same as years ago.. When I was in high school 1972-1975 there were two guys in my whole school that could be considered "gear heads" me and a guy named Steve ... (not that Steve :) ). And there were maybe a half dozen car guys that liked old cars, hot rods, street machines, ect. But they did very little work on the cars themselves.... That was for me and Steve to do and be considered the "car gods" of Leslie Arkansas . :) :) .. So there was really not that many of the gear heads back then as often though. So it really makes me feel good when someone like Shane is out there carrying on the hobby ...... keep us posted on any progress ....
I don't have many photos of the house on this phone due to getting it this winter but yes. The garage is under the main portion of the house. I do have a photo of when I was doing some tree removal as everything was overgrown and growing against the house.
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Here's the garage on the other side of the house and my 27 Tudor I went through last year.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 9:31 am
by Tbz4u
Great job I to was coached and inspired by Erik Barrett. I've made great friends here. I always try to help the younger generation. if I get a deal I pass it on and hope they are not gonna do s and are will do. Great job my friend

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 11:26 am
by Shane Lach
Tbz4u wrote:
Thu Mar 07, 2019 9:31 am
Great job I to was coached and inspired by Erik Barrett. I've made great friends here. I always try to help the younger generation. if I get a deal I pass it on and hope they are not gonna do s and are will do. Great job my friend
I appreciate all the help and advise to no end. I't's made this project progress much faster than I expected and to a higher build quality. I hope one day I can assist others in my position as you have.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 12:32 pm
by Art McTevia
AND I complain when I have to change my oil in my T.That is AMAZING!!!!!!!

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 3:01 pm
by Angmar
Wow, fantastic craftsmanship for sure. Very much enjoying this thread.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 3:19 pm
by dobro1956
dobro1956 wrote:
Wed Mar 06, 2019 9:01 pm
I'm going to go out on a limb and guess.... I think that there is no garage. That is probably the basement of his house .... I also love the field stone walls. ... As to the amount of new "young guns" They are out there.... Im hoping the proportion of young car guys is at least the same as years ago.. When I was in high school 1972-1975 there were two guys in my whole school that could be considered "gear heads" me and a guy named Steve ... (not that Steve :) ). And there were maybe a half dozen car guys that liked old cars, hot rods, street machines, ect. But they did very little work on the cars themselves.... That was for me and Steve to do and be considered the "car gods" of Leslie Arkansas . :) :) .. So there was really not that many of the gear heads back then as often though. So it really makes me feel good when someone like Shane is out there carrying on the hobby ...... keep us posted on any progress ....

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 8:57 pm
by Dallas Landers
Working metal like that is not easy, at least for me. Minimal tools and experience does not show in your work. You are very talented.
That is a fine looking ride your building. Keep us posted as I cant wait to see more.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 07, 2019 10:49 pm
by BHarper
Hi Shane,

WOW!

You have talent and moxie.

Thank you for taking the time to photograph all of your work and then painstakingly create this photo essay of your work. Most impressive.

I enjoyed meeting you last summer at one of the Epping flea markets.You described you speedster project to me and it sounded quite ambitious. You are doing great work and I wish you continued success with your project. Bill

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 13, 2019 9:23 pm
by Shane Lach
BHarper wrote:
Thu Mar 07, 2019 10:49 pm
Hi Shane,

WOW!

You have talent and moxie.

Thank you for taking the time to photograph all of your work and then painstakingly create this photo essay of your work. Most impressive.

I enjoyed meeting you last summer at one of the Epping flea markets.You described you speedster project to me and it sounded quite ambitious. You are doing great work and I wish you continued success with your project. Bill
Hey Bill! Thank you! I probably sounded like I was biting off more than I could chew lol. Hopefully I'll see you up there this season. Sorry I didn't make it back around once you unpacked.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 13, 2019 9:31 pm
by Shane Lach
So lately I have taken the tail apart for sealing and paint on the wood, and doing some finishing work on the hood. I am sealing the wood with fiberglass resin. The wood seems to soak the first coat up, then the second coat adds a nice protective layer.
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Here is most of the panels while drying. They're currently drying after being primed. I used Rust-Oleum boat primer for fiberglass.
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Here's the rear edge of the hood to give you an example of how it was before. I've been wire rolling the edges of the hood with 3/16 rod. I've been using a hammer and dolly to bend the edge to 90*, then using my shrinker to get the shape right. I then use a piece of thick flat stock backed by a dolly against the 90* to make it 180*. I then clamp the round bar in after pre shaping it to the panel. Just tap the 180 all the way around the bar a little at a time to get a nice rolled edge.
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Partly rolled.
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Front edge fit up to the shell sitting decent.
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Rear edge rolled and fit nicely. This is just sitting against the firewall. I need to shape up a hood shelf and lace it. A project for another day right?

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 13, 2019 9:32 pm
by Shane Lach
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This shows the whole panel. Eventually all sides of the panel we're completely wire rolled. It added a lot of strength and is nicer to grab onto when removing than just sharp unfinished edges.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 13, 2019 9:58 pm
by Henry K. Lee
Shane, BRAVO!

Very Proud of You! For a novice, you are becoming a professional very fast. Glad to see you are using techniques of various styles. This makes you a better fabricator as it teaches you what works best for the situation, life and experience becomes the teacher.

Love your progress, now I have to go and burn some midnight oil to catch up with you!

All the Best Shane,

Hank

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 14, 2019 9:28 am
by John Warren
Shane, It looks GREAT!! I love design and all the metal work. I think that rolled edge is over the top. I have never tried something like that, but who knows.... after seeing this I may try. Do you think you can bring it to Lincoln for the speedster reunion? It is June 20-22. It only happens every other year, so the next time may be in 2021. Hank, how bout you?

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 14, 2019 11:19 am
by Shane Lach
John Warren wrote:
Thu Mar 14, 2019 9:28 am
Shane, It looks GREAT!! I love design and all the metal work. I think that rolled edge is over the top. I have never tried something like that, but who knows.... after seeing this I may try. Do you think you can bring it to Lincoln for the speedster reunion? It is June 20-22. It only happens every other year, so the next time may be in 2021. Hank, how bout you?
Hey John! Let me know if you need any more details about doing it. It's fairly easy once you got the 90* and shape right. The rest is cake. So about Lincoln. I will be there but not with the car. The goal is to get the car as close to done by then as possible. I will be meeting my friend Rob from California there to buy a special powerplant for this thing. It should rip! :D :D

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Mar 14, 2019 7:04 pm
by Henry K. Lee
Shane be careful of Rob, he's a dead horse trader! LOL! Anyway your project is looking GREAT young man. Here is you a photo of what not to do. If you run into this, the car will under steer like no tomorrow. running in straight plains from ball to ball is of most importance. You can find longer links and forge them to an inverted candy cane shape like they did on the early Franklin cars. Just trying to help.

I think it is time for part 2 of this thread brother! My eyes get a aching!

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All the Best,

Hank

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 4:51 pm
by Shane Lach
This weekend I worked on making a hood former for the firewall and fitting the hood nicely. I made it out of angle aluminum in the shrinker very little at a time. I found the stretcher tears the aluminum. That sucked when I ruined my first one.
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I shaped it then drilled some holes to lace it up like a radiator shell.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 4:51 pm
by Shane Lach
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Here she is all test fit.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 8:31 pm
by Henry K. Lee
Shane,

Words can not express how PROUD of you I am in your adventure! Excellent work young man.

All the Best,

Hank in Tin-A-See

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 9:02 pm
by Shane Lach
Thanks again Hank. I can't wait to hear it run one day and see it outside this dungeon. I hope I can inspire some of the other younger guys to get out there and enjoy/ build these things.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 7:45 pm
by Shane Lach
Not much but I was sitting on the couch contemplating going to the hardware store to buy steel rod for a radiator support. I decided to go downstairs and see what I had already. I found an old brake rod and thought it might work. After smashing it flat and a little grinding it fit into the Whippet shell perfectly. I just have to thread it and add nuts and washers.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 20, 2019 6:42 pm
by Shane Lach
Today I made a hood shelf! Well I made one yesterday but it was an inch too short :roll: .
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Mar 20, 2019 6:43 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Sun Mar 31, 2019 7:26 pm
by Shane Lach
This week I dug into the side skirts. I built a couple, didn't like the first design, and really enjoy the second.
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Here she is with no side skirting.
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Round one ended up too blocky for my liking. They didn't flow well with the natural taper off the car. They also sat lower at the front due to the rake.
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This one I'm much happier with. The 1.5" taper rear to front really fits the body much better.
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I made some measurements and cut out a couple pieces of wood. I then set the skirt between them and left the metal 1/2" proud. Next I shaped the metal to the wood form. I'll take a couple photos of that process on the next side.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 8:40 am
by John Warren
Lookin great! That is going to be a beautiful car. Keep the posts coming!

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 6:45 pm
by Shane Lach
Moving on to the other side, I faced new challenges. I had moved the parking brake handle outboard and had to work the skirt around it. I did so by making some wooden templates to form the metal around. I'm pretty close to done making panels and it's almost time to move on to the fine tuning of them. It's exciting to see a car where once there was a pile of scrap parts I pulled out of someone's yard.
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Skirt cut out and all measurements mapped out.
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Folded the edges and began making the hand brake cut outs. I left the metal a half inch proud and folded it around these forms
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 7:35 pm
by George Andreasen
Shane, I've been following your project with great interest. I have a question though. In your first pictures you show what appears to be a piece of box tubing used as a cross member. You mentioned there was some interference though, so you decided against that method. Where was the interference? At the ends....spring hitting the closed off box? Or was the spring rubbing against the inside of the box? Both?

I'm asking because I had the same idea and would like to know exactly what headaches you ran into. In the meantime, keep the photos coming!! :D

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 9:42 pm
by Chad_Marcheese
Shane, I haven't been on here much lately, but GREAT JOB!

I had to chuckle at a couple of things you did, because the are in similar fashion to what I am doing:

Modified T frame, Model A steering, a happy accident that it came up through the same hole in the firewall. My column will be shortened though. I am also using an A front axle complete, but used Model T spring and perches. Some mods will follow as I may add front brakes. I have the parts to do a '28 Chevy overhead on a T block.

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Speedster Project 25.1.jpg (91.32 KiB) Viewed 30215 times
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Speedster Project 27.1.jpg (70.06 KiB) Viewed 30215 times

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 9:56 pm
by Shane Lach
George Andreasen wrote:
Wed Apr 03, 2019 7:35 pm
Shane, I've been following your project with great interest. I have a question though. In your first pictures you show what appears to be a piece of box tubing used as a cross member. You mentioned there was some interference though, so you decided against that method. Where was the interference? At the ends....spring hitting the closed off box? Or was the spring rubbing against the inside of the box? Both?

I'm asking because I had the same idea and would like to know exactly what headaches you ran into. In the meantime, keep the photos coming!! :D

The spring contacted the frame like you described. You can weld a channel on the front of the frame so the ends are open, but I didn't like the look as much. Since I already shifted the engine cross member back and the square one was made, I went with the lowering bracket I made off of that. It gives it a cool rake out front and functions well so far. My rigorous r&d only consists of me jumping up and down on the front end lol.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Apr 03, 2019 9:59 pm
by Shane Lach
Chad_Marcheese wrote:
Wed Apr 03, 2019 9:42 pm
Shane, I haven't been on here much lately, but GREAT JOB!

I had to chuckle at a couple of things you did, because the are in similar fashion to what I am doing:

Modified T frame, Model A steering, a happy accident that it came up through the same hole in the firewall. My column will be shortened though. I am also using an A front axle complete, but used Model T spring and perches. Some mods will follow as I may add front brakes. I have the parts to do a '28 Chevy overhead on a T block.


Speedster Project 25.1.jpg

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Looks like a solid start! Funny how some things fall together like that. I moved the seat way back so I'll be leaving the column full length. I will eventually be swapping to a model a rear axle.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 1:24 am
by D Stroud
Chad, you may want to keep an eye on your steering mount where you welded it to the frame. that will be a prime place for cracks to develope from the frame twisting. Myself, I would have bolted it on. Nice job on building it though. JMHO Dave

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 5:59 am
by Chad_Marcheese
d stroud wrote:
Thu Apr 04, 2019 1:24 am
Chad, you may want to keep an eye on your steering mount where you welded it to the frame. that will be a prime place for cracks to develope from the frame twisting. Myself, I would have bolted it on. Nice job on building it though. JMHO Dave
Yes, I may even (probably will) box that part of the frame to help that issue. I had the front half of a A frame I was considering splicing in at one point, but those rails were riddled with cracks on both rails--especially all in front of the steering box mount. I choose not to bolt it in because these cars have enough steering slop everywhere else, and I wanted to raise it some to try and gain back some geometry lost during the lowering of the front axle....hopefully it all steers ok in the end. I also chose to flip and further bend the pitman arm to try and correct some of the steering rod angle, as well as shorten it 1" like the aftermarket ones that are offered--again, mostly to gain back some geometry lost in the front end lowering. The mount itself is 3/16 plate that goes right to the bottom of the frame rail and fully welded in every possible spot front and back. And if I remember right, the steering box to front axle distance is only 2" shorter than a stock A, but the T frame is a little narrower.

Sorry for the Hi-jack of your post Shane.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 6:16 am
by Henry K. Lee
Chad,

David is correct on your welding there. Not getting in anyone’s business, just concerned about safety (yours and others). You could install a piece of channel under the frame by means of bolting. Just trying to help. And your project is looking Great!

Shane,

Sorry for my highjack too. Just trying too assist you younger fellas!

All the Best,

Hank

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 7:45 am
by D Stroud
NO, NO, NO, Chad, DO NOT box the frame!!! I have posted this many times on here. When the frame is boxed in a short section as you mentioned, that makes it into a rectangular tubing basically which will not flex as the original frame will when in a twist. That will cause cracks to develope at the ends of the boxed area, I've seen it happen many, many times in the last 40 years or so. It is a common misconception that a frame needs to be boxed when spliced, all that is needed is to put a channel (frame channel, not channel iron) inside as Henry said. Make it a snug fit and a few inches longer on each end so the stress is spread out over a wide area and definately bolt it in. Anything that is mounted on frame rails should be bolted or riveted, that allows for some "give". It's a bit late now, but you would have been better off bolting the bracket to the frame. Not trying to rain on your parade, just trying to point out possible(probable) problems down the road. Dave

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Thu Apr 04, 2019 7:49 am
by Henry K. Lee
Well put Dave!

Chad with total respect, we have walk down the paths of failure and do not wish this on anyone.

All the Best,

Hank

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2019 9:36 am
by Shane Lach
Alright guys. It's been a while but I'm back on track. With spring hitting I had a lot of household chores to focus on, as well as my wife is pregnant so a lot of my time has been consumed with other priorities. I've been making it a point to put in an hour or two a day again.

A while back I purchased a wallowed out Neville steering wheel. I needed an adapter made to fit my model a steering column and reached out to Hank. He explained that he was proud of the work I was putting forth and this was my reward. He managed to mill the hub face and create a collar to insert in the wheel. I appreciate all the help he has given me.
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After this, I began working on wire edging the circumference of the cockpit. I used 5/16" steel rod. I welded a piece of rod to the end of vise grips, and a plate to the other jaw. I gradually clamped and rolled the edge until I formed a 180* pocket. Then I formed the rod to sit in the pocket, clamped it, and hammer/dollied the sheet metal over the rod.
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Last month I traveled from New Hampshire to Nebraska for the speedster reunion to execute a long planned transaction with my friend Rob. We had been talking and worked out a deal on a special engine he had and wanted to sell me. He drove from California and we met in the middle of the country.
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Here's a photo of the gang. Rob, his father, Bob Middleton, my wife and I. These guys were great and it was cool to meet after months of phone calls and mentoring.
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Here she is. This is Rob and I after we dragged the powerplant to my truck bed after a combined 3,000 miles of driving. I'm honored to own this piece of automotive history and happy to give it a new home.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2019 10:01 am
by Shane Lach
Onto the details. The engine is a model t block, Gemsa 9:1 cross flow head, model a crankshaft, pressure fed oil system, dual downdraft strombergs, etc. I'll change a couple things here and there but the goal is to get it fit and running mocked up. I will be installing a splitdorf crossdrive mag setup on the front as well.
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I found some sweet old louvers for model t headlights you can see above also. Couldn't pass those up.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2019 11:39 am
by Dollisdad
It’s great to see a young man use his talents and vision to create. I am impressed with the design and execution of this project and the solutions to problems that present themselves as is always the case with building something where nothing existed before. You should be very proud of what you have accomplished. It’s guys like you who give old guys like so many of us the belief that the love and passion of these cars will be carried forward. My hat is off to you sir.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2019 2:35 pm
by Rich Eagle
Thanks for showing us all these pictures. Your craftsmanship is superb and the fabrication is so beautiful. Unfinished steel and that stone wall of your building are very intriguing together.
Thanks
Rich

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2019 2:48 pm
by Dallas Landers
Ooooh what a slick looking ride. Very nice work and a cool engine to. Im with Rich and Tom that cut stone should be inspiration to create something from nothing.

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2019 3:15 pm
by Henry K. Lee
Keep up the good work Shane!!!!

Proud of you!

Hank in dim dar hills

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Wed Jul 10, 2019 8:54 pm
by TRDxB2
Looking good - I'm still on square 1. Too bad we couldn't get together on your way to or from NE. Frank

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Sep 10, 2019 5:32 pm
by Shane Lach
So as of recently, progress has dialed back a bit due to my wife and I having our first baby! But I've been sneaking in some work here and there. I'll share some photos.

I rolled the car outside for the first time ever a month or so ago to get the juices flowing again.
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So back to the engine. The intake manifold that came with the engine came straight out of the head and contacted the steering column. Therefore I had make one which entered the head at 90*. I purchased a flange from Rob and got to work.
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Sep 10, 2019 5:34 pm
by Shane Lach
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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Sep 10, 2019 6:27 pm
by Henry K. Lee
Looking Good Shane!!!!

I want to see the permission slip from the wife proving you could go out and play!! LOL

All the Best,

Hank

Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Sep 10, 2019 6:28 pm
by Shane Lach
I then began working on the fuel system. The gentleman who builds the reproduction T tanks made me a custom one which is 3" narrower and sits behind the seat nicely. I then got a fuel fill adapter which threads into the tank, a fuel coupling, some t radiator hose clamps, a brass pipe, and a cool old brass flip top filler and created the filler neck. I used a harbor freight hydraulic knock out punch to put a perfectly round hole in the body. I also soldered the filler cap on because the tank will be pressurized.

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I then began running fuel line from front to back. I purchased a repop sediment bulb and installed that. I modified it by drilling it to accept a 5/16 fuel hardline to supply the dual downdraft carbs. The line material I used is Cunifer which is a copper nickel hybrid material. It had the old look but is more resistant to cracking/hardening. There is a short length of rubber fuel line between the tank and frame, frame and engine. That should relieve strain on any hardlines.

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Re: Model T Special build.

Posted: Tue Sep 10, 2019 6:34 pm
by Shane Lach
Here's the fuel line photos.

I also found time to make some plug wires for my high tension magneto!

I have to send this out and have it serviced/rebuilt but I'm out of cash for a while. Next up is running an air line from the dash mounted fuel pressure pump to the filler neck. That way I can push the fuel to the carbs. Once these things are complete, I should be able to start this thing. Much thanks to Hank for the starter and generator which will be added in my next post.