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24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Jan 06, 2019 11:57 am
by RustyFords
New year, new forum software, new Build Thread page for my 24 Touring.

I am confident that this is the year that I'll return the old girl to the road.

Here's the previous two threads from the old forum:

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/70 ... 1499381324

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/82 ... 1537469146

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Jan 06, 2019 12:22 pm
by JTT3
Don, In the famous quote from “Oh brother where art though”
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=9xJkUyotSc4

“I’m with you fellas”

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Jan 06, 2019 1:59 pm
by RustyFords
Glad to see you on the newfangled forum John.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Jan 06, 2019 2:19 pm
by RustyFords
Yesterday I made a big push to get the rear springs done. Cleaning them up on the wire wheel was nasty work and left me covered in dust...looking like a coal miner. I don't mind getting that filthy occasionally, but I figured I'd limit it to just one day this weekend.

Here's how it went:

I finished cleaning all the leaves late last night then I painted them with graphite paint. I've never messed with that stuff before. It's pretty neat. I might paint the underside of my mower deck with it. If anyone in the Houston area needs some, let me know. I'll never use the gallon that I have.

IMG_6280.JPG

They were dry this morning. I installed new bolts in the clamps. The old weathered nuts from the original set were in good shape and cleaned up nicely so they got re-used. My practice with this car is, if it's sound, safe and re-usable, it gets re-used...even something as small as a nut.

IMG_6282.JPG

Then I installed the main bolt that holds the whole set together. I didn't have the strength to clamp down the whole set enough to get the main bolt started so I used another long bolt to press them together, then clamped them, then removed the long bolt and installed to correct bolt that I got from Langs.

IMG_6284.jpg

I then cut off the excess bolt material and peened the clamp bolts and the main bolt. It'll now get a coat of flat black. I need to install new bushings and new grease cups and then it'll be ready for installation.

IMG_6285.jpg

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Jan 06, 2019 7:40 pm
by RustyFords
I wrapped up the day by continuing the tack rail project. I’m building the driver’s side curved piece out of plywood laminate like I did the other side.

I also installed the brake drums on my “new” wheels.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 10:41 pm
by RustyFords
Had just a few moments after work, before I ran out of sunlight so I glued another layer down on my plywood laminate corner section of the tack rail.

Hopefully, this coming weekend, I'll be able to wrap up the tack rail project.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 11:14 pm
by gla448
hi your car is coming along good I am just trying the new forum thanks bernie

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 12:36 am
by Steve Jelf
The spring bolt I got from Langs was rather disappointing.
IMG_0713 copy.JPG
Beside the remains of an original bolt it's obvious that the head is much too short. It's just a generic square head hardware store bolt. The head should be tall enough to fit into the hole in the frame and keep the spring from wandering.

IMG_0444 copy.JPG
This is the NOS bolt I got from Bob Bergstadt.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 7:27 am
by RustyFords
Wow Steve...that is a huge difference. Thanks for clueing me in on that.

I'll contact Bob to see if he has another one.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 8:55 am
by RustyFords
gla448 wrote:
Tue Jan 08, 2019 11:14 pm
hi your car is coming along good I am just trying the new forum thanks bernie
Thanks Bernie.

Glad you made it over to the new forum.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 10:14 am
by John kuehn
Good to see the original style bolt is available. I found a good original in my pile of parts for my 21 touring. I was about to cut the head off another bolt to weld on the head of the standard head bolt to make a thick one which would work but then I found the decent original.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 11:25 am
by Original Smith
The later center spring bolts didn't have as high a head as the early ones did. I have no idea when the change occurred. Also, the two spring clips used on each side have a special square head, and use a 1/2" across the threads jamb nut, which is used in various places on the late T's.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Thu Jan 10, 2019 4:16 pm
by RustyFords
Bob B has a new center bolt in the mail and Lang's has a new u-joint and pin, and new bushings in the mail as well.

That'll be everything I need to re-install the rearend/torque tube/driveshaft. The items won't be here by the weekend :cry: but I'll get it done as soon as possible.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Jan 13, 2019 10:33 pm
by RustyFords
New bushings and grease cups in the rear leaf springs.

I was ready to install my old shackles but immediately noticed that they’re way too worn to use. Looks like I have another purchase to make before I can install my rebuilt rearend assembly.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 4:22 am
by Allan
Don, I don't know which is correct, but I find it easier to oil the shackles if the hing on the lid is to the outside of the car. The spout on my oilcan lifts the lid and holds it open while I squirt. I can't get it in with the orientation at which you have yours set. Much easier to fix before the spring is fitted.

Allan from down under.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 8:06 am
by RustyFords
Good point Allan....thanks. I think the process of twisting the little bugger around might destroy it, but I bought a whole bag of them. So...I'll give it a go during my next "Model T therapy" session.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 9:35 am
by JimDix
Using those plastic clamps on a spring terrify me! The energy in that spring released in a millisecond can do serious damage. Use a real forged steel clamp, please

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Jan 14, 2019 10:39 am
by RustyFords
jimdix wrote:
Mon Jan 14, 2019 9:35 am
Using those plastic clamps on a spring terrify me! The energy in that spring released in a millisecond can do serious damage. Use a real forged steel clamp, please
Not sure if you noticed...there is a steel clamp in the photo.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Jan 15, 2019 3:10 pm
by Allan
Don, I'd take the oiler out to re-orientate it, rather than try to turn it. My tool of choice to remove them is a pair of side cutters.

Allan from down under.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 8:58 pm
by RustyFords
It was a good and productive day of T'ing.

I started by installing my Fun Projects pinion bearing kit, then proceeded to completely assemble the entire rearend, driveshaft, u-joint, torque tube, wishbone assembly.

There were a couple hiccups and learning moments but all in all, it went smoothly. I now have the whole unit assembled and painted in flat black. I'll let it dry until next weekend and will install it then. In the meantime, I need to install my reconditioned rear spring set in the crossmember.

I wanted to be sure that the rear spring gets seated all the way up in the crossmember so I removed the rear seat frame assembly so I can see the hole in the crossmember and I also wanted to appraise the condition of the seat frame and the top of the rear crossmember. I was pleased to see that the rear seat frame is in remarkable condition. It's wearing very old paint that is probably factory applied and has zero rot. It's filthy but I'm sure it'll clean up nicely. The brown areas on it, in the photo, are very thick caked on dirt but it does look like there's still paint under that dirt.

You've gotta love dry climates like west Texas and how they preserve old sheet metal.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 9:14 pm
by Dallas Landers
Lookin good. I love it when a plan comes together.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 9:24 pm
by RustyFords
Dallas Landers wrote:
Sat Feb 02, 2019 9:14 pm
Lookin good. I love it when a plan comes together.
Thanks Dallas. I sure am having fun with this old heap.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 10:00 pm
by Dallas Landers
Don, thats what this whole thing is about! I had some fun in the shop today also.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 11:11 pm
by Barth_Tool_Co
Great work! Keep it up!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Feb 03, 2019 2:23 am
by Rich Eagle
Thanks for taking us along on your project. That seat pan has some charm to it. I don't see them with that much old paint on them.
Keep at it.
Rich

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Feb 04, 2019 1:52 pm
by RustyFords
My next task is to get this crack in the rear crossmember welded up before I install the rear springs.

It's a minor task with potentially major ramifications so I'm not going to use my booger-welding skills to do it. I have a friend who's a good welder who'll do it for me. I just have to wait for him to fit me into his schedule. Hopefully that won't be too long.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Feb 10, 2019 9:47 am
by RustyFords
The rear seat pan cleaned up nicely and has the same magnificent (IMHO) patinated finish present on most of the car.

IMG_6403.jpg

The bracing rod at the top leading edge of the assembly had separated from the sheet metal and at some point in the distant past and a hole had been drilled in the rod and sheet metal at exactly the same place. It's almost certain that a fastener had been placed there to hold them together, but the fastener is long gone. The "correct" thing to do would be to straigthen both pieces out and tuck the sheet metal under the brace's lip. However, this has never been a restoration. This has always been an homage to Great Depression Texas farm life. So...I placed an appropriately weathered and ancient slotted machine screw and square nut to fill the hole and connect the pieces back together, then peened the screw to keep it in place. Yep...I'm sweating the details THAT MUCH...and loving every minute of it. I can see, looking forward that the nut may be in the way of the seat frame sitting where it might want to go, but I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

IMG_6405.JPG

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Feb 10, 2019 10:23 pm
by RustyFords
It was another good day of Model T'ing.

I started by installing the four hood latches. The trick where you tie down the springs was too difficult so I just pulled the hood shelves and installed them that way. It was much easier.

IMG_6423.JPG

Then I took a dive off the deep end installed the rebuilt spring set and the rear axle and torque tube assembly. I had a lot of trouble getting the spring shackles onto the springs and perches at the same time so I cobbled together a homemade spring spreader and that did the trick.

It's good to have the car sitting on 4 wheels again.

IMG_6425.jpg

IMG_6430.jpg

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Feb 11, 2019 1:37 am
by Wayne Sheldon
Oh yeah! Looking GOOD!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Feb 12, 2019 1:54 pm
by RustyFords
Original Smith wrote:
Wed Jan 09, 2019 11:25 am
The later center spring bolts didn't have as high a head as the early ones did. I have no idea when the change occurred.
Thanks for the info Larry.

I went ahead and used the earlier high head bolt that I got from Bob B. The later, shorter head version probably works fine (or Henry wouldn't have used it) but I like the way the earlier version protruded way up into the hole in the crossmember. It just seems more secure to me.

In my mind, I imagined that the hole in the crossmember would be significantly larger than the bolt head, but no...I couldn't even get a fingernail in between the two once the springs were installed. That's a pretty close tolerance, especially for a 95 year old crossmember that's seen as much hard use as this one has.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2019 1:03 pm
by RustyFords
My car came with a low radiator shell and low honeycomb radiator that is in excellent condition.

However, the car is a 24 with a high cowl. So...I'm on the lookout for a high radiator shell with the same weathered finish that the rest of the car has. So far, I haven't had much luck. There are plenty of high shells out there, but most are restored or are wearing old lacquer paint jobs (from 50+ years ago) that just don't age the same way as old factory paint.

I'm hoping to find what I'm looking for at Chickasha.

In the meantime, I've raised my low shell and radiator 1" with wood blocks that I'll paint black so they're not so noticeable. The hood top I bought from Hugh Hemphill in San Antonio is a nice match for my old paint. Over the weekend, I mounted it on the car and cinched it down with zip-ties to get an idea how it'll look with no hood sides and my raised radiator. I was pleased with the overall look.

Next step is to create some hood straps from some old leather horse harnesses that I got from my in-law's barn. I'm going to attach them at the hinge pin at bottom edge of the hood then terminate them with a brass clip that'll hook onto the Model T hood latches. I'll do two on each side.

The hood sides that came with the hood must be for a short radiator car because they're too short. They're in superb condition and are wearing that same paint that looks like it's original factory stuff. I'll take them to Chickasha to find a new home for them.

.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2019 4:17 pm
by Barth_Tool_Co
Looking good!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2019 5:00 pm
by RustyFords
Thanks Wayne and Jason!

All I lack (mechanically) to have a running/driving car is to go through my spare engine. That'll involve lapping the valves, "time-savering" the bearings, installing new bands and a few other things.

The two front spring perches and bushings are toast and they'll get the full treatment, but I think I'll cheat and at least take it around the block a couple times once it's running...before I tear into the front axle.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2019 6:18 pm
by Allan
Don, go easy on the hood fitting. The low radiator shell has sides which are square to the front of the radiator, whereas the high shells have side which are angled outwards to follow the contours of the body somewhat. As a consequence fitting a high radiator hood to a low shell means the curves of the hood top panels have to be altered to get a neat fit. If you do this, the hinge line at the front will be a little low, resulting in side panels which then don't fit well.

If you intend to source the correct radiator, I would tend to space the hood on the low radiator, rather than bend it to fit.

I have the shell you need, in original shop soiled, chipped and rusted at the chips state, probably new-old-stock. It has crayon numbers written on the inside on the original black japan paintwork. I have it put aside for nickel plating and fitment to my Duncan and Fraser wide body roadster. Being as good as it is makes it much less costly to prepare for plating. Since I got my barn fresh Henrietta, I understand your aims to find parts which match the condition of your car. If you can find a later brass shell from the 26-7 model cars which requires absolutely NO repairs, I would be prepared to trade, but the postage each way would likely queer the deal. Letting vendors know what you are looking for here on the forum may well pay dividends at Chickasha.

Allan from down under.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2019 8:22 pm
by RustyFords
Thanks for the info Allan...it's always much appreciated.

I'd like to see a photo of your radiator shell if you have one handy.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Fri Feb 15, 2019 9:26 am
by Barth_Tool_Co
rustyfords wrote:
Wed Feb 13, 2019 5:00 pm
I think I'll cheat and at least take it around the block a couple times once it's running...before I tear into the front axle.
Nothing brews even more motivation like a short spin around the block!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Fri Feb 15, 2019 10:40 pm
by RustyFords
Barth_Tool_Co wrote:
Fri Feb 15, 2019 9:26 am
rustyfords wrote:
Wed Feb 13, 2019 5:00 pm
I think I'll cheat and at least take it around the block a couple times once it's running...before I tear into the front axle.
Nothing brews even more motivation like a short spin around the block!
So true. After slogging away on this one for two years, I'm needing to see and hear it run.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Feb 17, 2019 7:47 pm
by RustyFords
Worked some more on the radiator/hood situation today.

I made some tie-down straps out of an old horse bridle set that I found in my in-law's barn. I like the way the straps work and look but I'm not happy with the low radiator on my high cowl car...even after raising it up some with wooden blocks. I really need a high shell that has good weathering on it. Finding one is my main goal for Chickasha. If and when I do, I'll buy a new Bergs radiator to go with it.

Surely one of you guys with the big stashes has a high shell with old paint on it that you'd be willing to part with! :)

.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Feb 18, 2019 11:29 am
by Barth_Tool_Co
Those straps look they they've been there since day one... nice job. I like the look of running with the hood sides removed :D

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Feb 18, 2019 12:50 pm
by RustyFords
Thanks Jason...that was the general idea. I'm trying to make everything look like it's been there a while. Not always doable, but mostly it is.

I didn't have a choice with the hood sides. The ones I have are in beautiful shape but they're probably for a low cowl car and don't fit my car. However, I also think the car looks pretty good with no hood sides. And since the old girl won't be run in inclement weather, their absence won't be a problem. I'm not afraid to run my old cars in rain, but this old girl won't see rain if I can help it. She's done more than her fair share of hard work and will now see only fun, easy duty.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Feb 25, 2019 10:16 am
by RustyFords
This weekend was the first time the weather allowed me to push the T of the garage to get a look at my handiwork now that the rear axle rebuild is complete.

I love the spindly, awkward look of a stock Model T from the rear...it's so goofy and cool at the same time. I'm no purist by any stretch and have built several hotrods, but part of why I don't like T hotrods is that when you lower them down and put big wide tires on them, it ruins this "spindly" look...and that's a lot of the charm on a pre-war car.

A nasty head cold had my number this weekend so I didn't accomplish as much as I wanted, but I did finish all the little details with the rear end assembly. When I installed it a couple weeks ago, I finished super late in the evening and didn't properly cotter pin everything and fill up the differential with 600W oil. So, I did all of that, and made some more progress on the tack rail project.

Not a ton of progress but I've been through enough old car projects to know that even small amounts of progress eventually adds up to a running, driving car.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Feb 25, 2019 7:41 pm
by RustyFords
Another thing I was pleased with since the rebuilding and reinstallation of the rear springs is how much nicer the car sits and how fluid and smooth the spring action is compared to before.

Not only was there a broken spring leaf in the set, but the factory applied slip paint had long ago faded away. Add to that the completely dry and trashed spring shackle bushings and you had a very squeaky car that had almost no suspension travel. The car is now completely silent and has a nice range of motion as you rock and actuate the rear suspension. I'm excited to get the front suspension rebuilt and experience what a fully functional Model T suspension feels like.

I've ridden in John Mays' excellent 1911 Touring and was amazed at how comfortable it was and how capably it handled a dirt road. I'm hoping mine turns out to be similar.

Here's a link to the video of John taking my son's and I for a ride in his beautiful car.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdhGFCLEDJ0&t=4s

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 1:03 am
by Duey_C
I cannot wait. You take your Touring on it's first maiden voyages Don. Fluid? ALIVE...for me. :lol:
John's '11 is fantastic! You folks have toques/tukes/stocking hats on. In Texas? :)
An old old poster would have lipped off at what you're doing to your boys. Messing with their heads and such.
I can relate. Hat's off to you Don. BTDT with my children.
Danged spindly lookin' tough little buggers.
A look from the rear of a Runabout if I may Don.
20180727_210528.jpg

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 8:17 am
by RustyFords
I love your Runabout Duane. Ain't they just gangly, awkward, spindly and gorgeous all at the same time!

Sometimes I just sit for long stretches, staring at my old cars...doing nothing else, just staring at them and admiring their lines.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 8:57 am
by John Warren
Don, Good to see you are still at it , like you said just keep chipping away at it. Looking good.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 4:52 pm
by RustyFords
John Warren wrote:
Tue Feb 26, 2019 8:57 am
Don, Good to see you are still at it , like you said just keep chipping away at it. Looking good.
Thanks John.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 10:09 pm
by Mark Gregush
Thanks for the idea on the laminated tack rail. Maybe a bit late, but did you put pads between the springs and channels? Looking good!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Feb 26, 2019 10:29 pm
by RustyFords
Mark Gregush wrote:
Tue Feb 26, 2019 10:09 pm
Thanks for the idea on the laminated tack rail. Maybe a bit late, but did you put pads between the springs and channels? Looking good!
Hi Mark...yes...I put a rubber pad between the springs and the crossmember. It was the one Langs sells.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2019 1:50 pm
by RustyFords
Here's the current state of my old heap...which is becoming less "heap-like" all the time.

I'm needing door wood kits for the right front and left rear doors and will see if Mr. Anderson has them at Chickasha. If not, I'll place an order for them soon thereafter. I'm picking up top bows and seats at Chickasha and a rebabitted rear main cap and that should give me most of what I need to at least make the old girl mobile.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2019 5:56 pm
by Dallas Landers
Lookin more like a runner Don. I like that look.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2019 7:56 pm
by RustyFords
Dallas Landers wrote:
Wed Feb 27, 2019 5:56 pm
Lookin more like a runner Don. I like that look.
Thanks Dallas...it's gettin' there. One of the things I'd like to do with this car is drive it around at the OCF, and hopefully take a photo of it next to yours if you plan on going again.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2019 8:34 pm
by Dallas Landers
That would be great Don. I plan on going if they will have me. I hope to have the TT there also. Lots to do on it to get ready.
ResizedImage_1504986606159.jpg
Something like this Don ?

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Feb 27, 2019 8:54 pm
by RustyFords
You've got the look down perfect. I love it.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Mar 02, 2019 4:56 pm
by RustyFords
More work on the front tack rail today. I hope to have the woodwork done by tomorrow and also have it all stained. Then I’ll let it dry for a week and install it next weekend.

That’s the plan anyway.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Mar 03, 2019 2:37 pm
by RustyFords
Yet more woodwork today for the short time I had this morning. I finished sanding all the front tack rail pieces then did a trial fit of the whole assembly, then took it apart and stained all of it.

I also added a few thin pieces of plywood to the horizontal structural wood at the top of the front seat area (behind the front door) to shore it up. That piece of wood was (I believe) replaced at some point and wasn’t stout enough and didn’t have the right shape.

I’ll allow that repair and the stain to dry for a week and will then install the tack rail. All that will leave for me, in the wood department is wood kits for two of my three doors and the vertical struts for the back of the rear seat area.

I’ll buy the door kits because I want excellent quality hardwood with precisely the correct shape in order for my doors to shut correctly, but I’ll make the three vertical struts myself.
.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Fri Mar 08, 2019 8:33 pm
by RustyFords
More progress on the front tack rail this evening...mostly fitting, removing, sanding, removing, re-fitting, and on and on. I am very pleased with how nicely it's turning out, especially the corner pieces that I made. I can't even get a fingernail between the body and wood and they are extremely sturdy.

I should have the tack rail project finished tomorrow after some more fussing with fitment. Then I'll reapply some stain and call them done.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Mar 10, 2019 6:16 pm
by RustyFords
Tack rail project is complete with the exception of the small nails that finish securing the sheetmetal to the tack rails. The laminate idea that Australian Alan recommended was brilliant.

Both seating "buckets" are now very sturdy.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 12:39 am
by Duey_C
Looking great Don! The tack rails really shaped up for you!
Ya, I must admit I sit and stare at my old junk (heaps-and they are) whenever I can. Or marvel at the simple beauty of an "Artillery wheel" sometimes.
I have a photo someplace of The Ol' Bolens' front end, Crappy T's front end, the Twin City boys noses (tractors) down in the green and the grader in the background.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 7:52 pm
by RustyFords
Duey_C wrote:
Mon Mar 11, 2019 12:39 am
Ya, I must admit I sit and stare at my old junk (heaps-and they are) whenever I can. Or marvel at the simple beauty of an "Artillery wheel" sometimes.
Only thing better than sitting and staring at your old iron is sitting and staring at your old iron with another old car guy and a couple brews.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:32 pm
by Duey_C
Hahaha! Yep!
Old gas engine guys are even worse! Flywheels turning... Tutt........ Tutt....... Tutt......Tutt..... OR doink, doink, doink, doink, doink. Depending if it's a hit & miss or a throttle governed engine.... :lol:
This old junk and these ol' heaps will mesmerize fellas into another one!
I took a pic last summer, settin' outdoors in my chair, balogney'ing and having one with Maw: The nose of the Old Bolens HT20, the nose of the Crappy '24 T and then further down, the Twin boys (1928 tractors) and the motor grader beside them with the obligatory empty grease barrel in the way. It just seemed fitting then and I'm glad I snapped it. I be too darned wordy. Please excuse.
:)

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:53 pm
by Dallas Landers
Drinkin beer and looking at old iron is great. Sure has a better ring than sitting around drinkin beer and looking at old wood!

"Wood cab and bed"

Those tack rails should last another hundred years Don.
Duane, we need to see photos of that old Iron!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 9:08 pm
by Ruxstel24
Looks great Don !! Kevin said the bows look better than his... :D
You should have something to sit on soon too !!
I'm surprised I didn't find an OE top stashed away. :(

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 10:21 pm
by RustyFords
Ruxstel24 wrote:
Mon Mar 11, 2019 9:08 pm
Looks great Don !! Kevin said the bows look better than his... :D
You should have something to sit on soon too !!
I'm surprised I didn't find an OE top stashed away. :(
Now you’ve got me all excited to see it.

I have an old top stashed away in climate controlled storage. As soon as I get the top bows back here and I get a really hot day, I’ll lay it out and get it installed.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 10:24 pm
by RustyFords
Dallas Landers wrote:
Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:53 pm
Drinkin beer and looking at old iron is great. Sure has a better ring than sitting around drinkin beer and looking at old wood!

"Wood cab and bed"
I don’t know Dallas, that 8 in 1 is pretty sweet and worthy of staring at for at least a couple hours.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Mar 11, 2019 10:27 pm
by RustyFords
Duey_C wrote:
Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:32 pm
I took a pic last summer, settin' outdoors in my chair, balogney'ing and having one with Maw: The nose of the Old Bolens HT20, the nose of the Crappy '24 T and then further down, the Twin boys (1928 tractors) and the motor grader beside them with the obligatory empty grease barrel in the way. It just seemed fitting then and I'm glad I snapped it. I be too darned wordy. Please excuse.
:)
No excuses necessary....like Dallas said...we need photos

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Mar 12, 2019 12:22 am
by Duey_C
Doggone it, IF I lip off (WHEN for me), I’d better be able to produce the goods huh? About 20 minutes after I lipped off on that last post, I thought to myself; You knucklehead Duane. Don and Dallas will wanna see that pic and sure enough, you did. Dang it. :oops:
Not my intention. I called it a “junky scene” on another site and it is.
Means the whole world to me in a very big way but to others? Maybe not so much. ;)
Accidental pic, it was. The valve cover was off the Grey Twin down there: Sexy things going on under there. 16 valve 340 and good flow for great fuel economy started in 1919 on that. :twisted:

Oh! IF the front end isn’t that terrible bad on your Touring, don’t feel bad about oiling it up and “cheating” and taking it out for “testing”. I’ve been testing this Crappy, wore out ‘24 Runabout for 20 years. It’s shot. Took it to town many times for coffee with my buddies. Still take him out and beat the crap out of him after he's warmed up. Maybe we reach 30 miles per hour!
He's shot. But very willing.

THAT pic. The nose of the Crappy '24 sure looks sweet, don’t it.
The 1000 pound nose of "The Ol’ Bolens" is the sweetest garden tiller I’ve ever used.
Arghh.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Mar 12, 2019 5:53 am
by tinman080
Dallas Landers wrote:
Mon Mar 11, 2019 8:53 pm
Drinkin beer and looking at old iron is great. Sure has a better ring than sitting around drinkin beer and looking at old wood!



Whaaaat??? :D
0508181346a_Burst01.jpg
DSCN2548 (2).JPG

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Mar 12, 2019 6:54 am
by RustyFords
Duane and Gary....yall have some treasures between the two of you. One of my favorite "old car things" to do is to visit other guy's places and look at their old vehicles and ask questions about their history, quirks, etc, etc. I like other people's old vehicles as much as I do my own sometimes.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Mar 16, 2019 8:02 pm
by RustyFords
One of my Chickasha goodies was this fender I bought from Mike Lebsack.

The right rear fender on my car was the only one that didn't have the worn original paint that the reast of the car is wearing. Mike had one that is just beautiful and is a perfect match for my car.

I got home around 3 PM today and was so geeked out about installing it that I went ahead and did so...even before I unloaded my car. Before I installed it, I gave it a gentle bath, then dried it and rubbed in some Penetrol to bring out the old black Gilsonite paint.

Here's a photo of it installed....the lighting wasn't the best. I'm a super pleased with it.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Mar 16, 2019 8:11 pm
by John Warren
Ha Ha Ha, lookin good! Keep it up!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 10:29 am
by Dallas Landers
Don, that fender looks like it has lived there a long time. Its much harder get that look than put a newly painted fender on it. Plus the hunt for just the right look is half the fun. I know the fun. It sounds like your having fun also and thats what its really about I think. Waiting for your next report!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 1:23 pm
by RustyFords
John Warren wrote:
Sat Mar 16, 2019 8:11 pm
Ha Ha Ha, lookin good! Keep it up!
Thanks John...I'll have some T time today and will post an update with my progress.
Dallas Landers wrote:
Sun Mar 17, 2019 10:29 am
Don, that fender looks like it has lived there a long time. Its much harder get that look than put a newly painted fender on it. Plus the hunt for just the right look is half the fun. I know the fun. It sounds like your having fun also and thats what its really about I think. Waiting for your next report!
Yeah Dallas. I know there are some pretty skilled artists who can simulate old paint, but I don't think this particular look can be duplicated. Original pieces have to be sought out. If I can find a tall radiator shell with this paint, I'll have all the body panels I need.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Mar 19, 2019 12:59 pm
by RustyFords
Here's a shot of the absolutely gorgeous top bow set I bought from Dave Hanlon. They're in very solid condition and are sporting great weathered paint that is a nice match for my car. There's even what looks like very old, very well-done brazing that's showing, adding to the overall "Great Depression" vibe.

My car has 26-27 top pivots in place that don't work well with the earlier one-man top bows. I bought a used set of the correct top pivots from Langs and hope to have them by the weekend. I'll find a way to plug the incorrect holes in the body in a way that compliments the "look".

Once they're here, I'll get my used top material out and will attempt to get it mounted. And advice on that is welcome. I've watched a YouTube video several times where a lady does the top on a black Touring car and it's given me a lot of ideas on what to do and what not to do.

I'm also gettting ready to start putting my spare '25 engine back together. First order of business is lapping the valves.
.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Mar 23, 2019 8:45 pm
by Dallas Landers
Looking for update Don.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Mar 23, 2019 11:11 pm
by RustyFords
Dallas Landers wrote:
Sat Mar 23, 2019 8:45 pm
Looking for update Don.
Ask and ye shall receive :D

Today I concentrated on the spare 25 engine. I lapped all eight valves and removed the pistons to prepare for the honing that I'll give the cylinders. Gene French is re-babbiting my rear main bearing and as soon as I have that back, I should be ready to reassemble the engine. The goal with this engine is to do a quick and cheap refresh in order to give me a temporary engine. The cylinder walls look good and a quick honing is all they should need. My car's original engine will eventually go to Ross Lilliker for a complete rebuild.

I continue to clean the block and the imense amount of blue RTV goo that the previous owner applied over just about every surface. And, I think he used a garden trowel to do it. ;)

I love the valve spring compressor tool that I bought on eBay. It's very easy to use, and for some reason was a fraction of the price of the more common tool.
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IMG_6667.jpg
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Six of the valve seats are excellent, while two are so-so. But I've lapped them extensively...enough to make them seal up, I think, for the amount of time I'll run this engine. There's also some significant pitting at the ends of the block where the coolant ports are. I think a new gasket and copper sealant will be enough to compensate for this though.
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I also cleared out the oil pickup tube. It was about 75% blocked and whatever was blocking the tube was very solid and persistently stuck. About an hour of fussing with it, jabbing at it, soaking it with carb cleaner and blowing out the tube with compressed air, cleared it out. As an aside...one should pay attention where one places one's face while spraying compressed air into a stopped up tube containing carb cleaner. It could spray the carb cleaner back into one's eyes, causing searing pain and a mad dash for the garden hose and a good soaking for 15 minutes. Ask me how I know. :|
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IMG_6669.jpg
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And...from the "just because" department...here's a photo of the ancient set of top bows that I bought from Dave Hanlon...a set that his dad put away many years ago. The old repair (brazing I think) is just magnificent and a perfect match for my car.
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IMG_6665.jpg

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sat Mar 23, 2019 11:32 pm
by Dallas Landers
Thats what Im talking about Don! I knew you would come through.
You have been busy.
Thanks for the weekly fix.

Waiting on next installment.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 12:48 pm
by RustyFords
I'm going to start making door panels and kick panels. I have a lot of weathered old interior fabric that I bought from Dave Hanlon and plan to use it for this purpose.

My first inclination is to make the backer boards out of Luan Plywood.

Any thoughts, or words of wisdom, on this?

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Apr 01, 2019 2:21 pm
by RustyFords
My wife decided we should paint the entire inside of the house...before we have all the carpet replaced in about a month.

She always uses that word...we, but it always ends up being mainly me. I now tell her that since the word "we" never really includes her, there must be an asian handyman who she's referring to. And so, Mr. Wi has now become a familiar character in our conversations about home improvement.

It's suspicious though. Like Superman and Clark Kent...Mr. Wi and I are never in the same place at the same time.

And so, alas, this is as close as I got to my "babies" this weekend.
.
.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Apr 08, 2019 11:30 am
by RustyFords
Still slow going on the T. My wife has been wanting to re-carpet and paint the entire inside of the house for a couple years so we're tackling that. It doesn't leave a lot of time for the T, especially when you factor in my time consuming job.

BUT....I PRESS ON!!! I refuse to quit on the T. Even in its non-running state, it brings me happiness. It'll be even moreso once I can putt around in it.

I had about an hour of T-time on Sunday so I picked one little project I could start and finish in that time. That turned out to out to be the top-to-windshield post clamps.

My top bows/irons set were repaired a long time ago. The repairs are very well done and made the set very sturdy...maybe even more sturdy than a stock set. These came from Dave Hanlon's dad's stash so I'm assuming his dad made the repairs...but I could be wrong about that.

The forward-most bow has been modified in a way that made correctly placing the two windshield post clamps a bit difficult. On a stock set, the placement of the clamps is set and obvious. On this set, there was no indication as to where they belonged. I had to find a way to center them while maintaining the proper spacing for them to match the windshield post spacing. To make a long story short, I rigged some uprights to help find the center of the bow, then worked out from there.

I managed to finish the project in my allotted time and then test fitted the open top on the car. It worked fine.

I'm hoping to receive the last of the bits this week to put my spare engine back together. That'll be a priority once I have everything on hand.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Apr 08, 2019 7:01 pm
by RustyFords
The mailman was Santa today and delivered everything I need to put my temp engine back together.

A rebabbitted rear main from Gene French and some stuff from Langs. Now to find the time to do it.

I can almost hear it running now!!! :P

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Apr 08, 2019 9:54 pm
by Dallas Landers
Don, I love it when parts arrive for my project. I think this car has waited almost 100 years for you, a couple more days wont matter to it.
Happy wife happy life buddy!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Apr 08, 2019 10:48 pm
by RustyFords
Dallas Landers wrote:
Mon Apr 08, 2019 9:54 pm
I think this car has waited almost 100 years for you, a couple more days wont matter to it.
Thanks Dallas. I get that impression when I'm around it. I feel connected to it.

The poor thing that John Mays drug out of that barn could've easily just been parted out for its near perfect body panels because the mechanicals and the fenders needed a lot of attention.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 1:24 am
by ryanf1023
I think a black era touring is the most humbling T, and yours has a fantastic look. Watching the progress makes me aspire to get one just like that at some point when I’m older.

Well done! I enjoy following

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 6:34 am
by Allan
Don, I would not use plywood for the door panels. Trimmers here almost exclusively use 3mm MDF fibreboard. They can even sew through this if that is called for. Plywood can delaminate of it gets wet, cheap luan even more so. MDF just needs to be primed/sealed on the back side after the covering is fitted.
Hope this helps.
Allan from down under.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 7:29 am
by RustyFords
allan wrote:
Tue Apr 09, 2019 6:34 am
Don, I would not use plywood for the door panels. Trimmers here almost exclusively use 3mm MDF fibreboard. They can even sew through this if that is called for. Plywood can delaminate of it gets wet, cheap luan even more so. MDF just needs to be primed/sealed on the back side after the covering is fitted.
Hope this helps.
Allan from down under.
Your advice is always appreciated and coveted Allan. You haven't steered me wrong yet.

I can't seem to find a place that will sell me the upholstery panels. I am near Houston though, so I'm probably not looking hard enough.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 7:37 am
by RustyFords
ryanf1023 wrote:
Tue Apr 09, 2019 1:24 am
I think a black era touring is the most humbling T, and yours has a fantastic look. Watching the progress makes me aspire to get one just like that at some point when I’m older.

Well done! I enjoy following
Thanks for the compliment Ryan and for following along.

And I agree...the black T's played a big role in building modern America and seeing it through the Great Depression. They were humble while at the same time being rugged, unstoppable and sometimes full of personality. They personified, in car form, the American people of that era.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 8:27 am
by Barth_Tool_Co
Looking great! I'll bet you're excited to fire it up :D

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 2:24 pm
by RustyFords
Barth_Tool_Co wrote:
Tue Apr 09, 2019 8:27 am
Looking great! I'll bet you're excited to fire it up :D
Most definitely.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 2:51 pm
by Scott_Conger
Don

I try to return to your posting(s) once a week to see someone thoroughly in love with a T, who is not trying to make it into something it is not. I truely wish I could be there when you fire it up and take your first drive. Thank you for your postings.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 09, 2019 5:40 pm
by RustyFords
Scott_conger wrote:
Tue Apr 09, 2019 2:51 pm
Don

I try to return to your posting(s) once a week to see someone thoroughly in love with a T, who is not trying to make it into something it is not. I truely wish I could be there when you fire it up and take your first drive. Thank you for your postings.
Wow Scott. Such kind words. Thank you.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Apr 10, 2019 12:44 am
by Duey_C
"humble.... rugged, unstoppable and sometimes full of personality. They personified, in car form, the American people of that era."
I could not agree more Don.
"tough as nails."

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 8:46 pm
by RustyFords
This afternoon The focus was on the temp engine.

I gave the cylinders a quick honing then installed all the pistons and lapped the rod caps with Timesaver. Then I installed new shims and went through the process of removing shim layers until each cap was just right. The procedure I followed was to remove layers until the rod was too tight to turn then I added a shim layer back in.

It kept occurring to me how much easier and enjoyable this process is with the engine out of the car (on an engine stand) that it is while laying under the car!

I also installed the rebabbitted rear main cap that Gene French redid. All of the slop is now eliminated from the crankshaft.

Overall, the engine is now really snug
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IMG_6743.jpg
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IMG_6744.jpg
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IMG_6746.jpg
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Yes...I did finish properly folding down the cotter pins after I took the photo below.
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IMG_6747.JPG
I previously lapped the valves and I replaced the valve stem keeper pins. A few of the old ones were slightly bent.
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IMG_6748.jpg
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Next I'll see what repairs are needed for the magneto and will order up the parts for those repairs. Then I'll reinstall the transmission and re-line the bands. Finally, I'll re-install the head and then install the engine in the car.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2019 9:10 pm
by Dallas Landers
Oh ya, laying under with oil dripping on your face. What fun!
One step closer Don. Glad to see you got in some shop theropy.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Apr 15, 2019 12:22 pm
by Barth_Tool_Co
Looking good, not even my car and I'm getting excited for the maiden voyage!

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Mon Apr 15, 2019 1:52 pm
by RustyFords
Dallas Landers wrote:
Sun Apr 14, 2019 9:10 pm
Oh ya, laying under with oil dripping on your face. What fun!
One step closer Don. Glad to see you got in some shop theropy.
Barth_Tool_Co wrote:
Mon Apr 15, 2019 12:22 pm
Looking good, not even my car and I'm getting excited for the maiden voyage!
Dallas and Jason...I'm at that stage in an old car project where you get that sense that you might actually get to drive it. Up 'till then, it's more like a gigantic arts and crafts project.

Work and family continue to consume the vast majority of my time, but even so, I'm thinking I'll be putting around this summer. The front spring perches and shackles and steering linkage in this car are very worn, but that's not going to stop me from taking a few very-low-speed laps around the neighborhood.

I've returned a half dozen or so long-term storage (30 years or more) cars to the road. Each time I've made that first ride, I've had a smile from ear to ear and may have even screamed out for joy when I was driving out through the country.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2019 10:20 pm
by RustyFords
Pushed the project forward a bit this evening by installing the valve cover and head.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2019 10:38 pm
by Scott_Conger
Don

see those "dots" on the center main bearing bolts? They correspond to the cotter pin hole. Next time you're into an engine, you'll want to pay attention to them so as to EASILY fit cotter pins to them! ;)

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2019 11:30 pm
by RustyFords
Scott_conger wrote:
Tue Apr 16, 2019 10:38 pm
see those "dots" on the center main bearing bolts? They correspond to the cotter pin hole. Next time you're into an engine, you'll want to pay attention to them so as to EASILY fit cotter pins to them! ;)
I'm not following you Scott...please explain.

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2019 10:18 am
by Scott_Conger
Don

Look at the bolt heads...they're square...there is a "dot" rasied on a corner of the bolt head. If that dot is aligned toward the outside of the block or inside of the block, then the cotter hole will be thusly aligned. In otherwords, if you aligned both bolts such that a straight line can go from the "dot", across the opposite corner of the bolt AND cross over a "dot" on the other bolt and it's opposite corner, the cotter pins will then be a straight shot with both bolts conveniently aligned and easy to put the cotter pins in. I'm sure there is a much easier way to say this but I am flumouxed as to how to say it right now :)

Re: 24 Touring Barn Car Revival - Part 3

Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2019 12:04 pm
by RustyFords
ah...ok....got it.