Any tips for reproduction fender purchase?

[signsup]

Aside for the sticker shock, I need two front fenders for my 26/27 T project. I'm starting with a 26/27 donor vehicle for my WWI ambulance project so it has the incorrect year chassis, but it is what it is. Original car was depot hack so I have no idea if the original fenders were off a touring or roadster or coupe or what. But I've got the angled attachment brackets and running boards and splash shields from the 26/27 and the frame, so I presume I need to go back with 26/27 fenders. There are no rear fenders on this project, large wooden guard rails.
Almost $700 ea from Langs plus almost $400 for s/h. Eklers wants almost $1k per fender plus s/h, so not a cheap replacement.
Passenger fender is beyond our repair with cuts, rips, dings, dents, etc., and a lot of flat out rot in the running board attachment area. We are not body workers,. And, if we were to replace one, we'd go with both to match the appearance.

So, any other options for acquiring reproduction fenders that I'm overlooking? We presume taking fender to professional for possible repair would not be cost effective and don't know if other years reduce the cost any. I've got the light bar on the headlights to deal with as well. And fiberglass fenders did not save that much money to have to get into the fiberglass body finishing business.

Any insights appreciated. I will post a WTB on the classifieds and hope there is one out there within driving distance from GA.

I'll hang up and listen.

[Norman Kling]

The front fenders are same for all models of that year, but the back ones are different. Might be different for Fordor Sedan both front and back.
Norm

[John kuehn]

The new reproduction fenders don’t have the fender mounting brackets. The 25 year and back dont have them. If you still have your old fenders don’t throw them away because you may need them for the new ones. I don’t have the 26-27 T’s so I’m sure about those fenders. If you have to install the brackets be careful in reattaching the brackets. There is no room for error!

Just be aware if you get new fenders they may not have the brackets. A good used fender may be good but might miss a bracket! Check to be sure!
The brackets aren’t being reproduced and still may not be. You may find them at swap meets and occasionally in the classifieds on this website. Do your homework about any new fender purchase. Hope this will help.

[jiminbartow]

My advice for buying reproduction fenders is: Don’t do it. Fiberglass reproduction fenders are obvious and will reduce the value of your car. Try and find original fenders. That is the only way for your T to appear authentic, will add to the value of your T and make it more sellable to buyers in the know, should you ever want to sell it.

[varmint]

I tried to get replacement front fenders for my 26, avoiding the fiberglass and failed for months. I had to become a body man and it shows that I am not but we are content to have used steel fenders. The before and after are so-so up close.

[Craig Leach]

Hi Robert,
I think you and I have a lot in common. I'm more interested in the perception of 90% of the people I encounter with my T's than the other 10%
Don't get me wrong I love the 10% of people that have the knowledge & where for all to have that super correct antique automobile. I just don't
possess that 10% & love sharing my enthusiasm with as many as I can. If you are starting with a 26-27 then you have a high hood, radiator &
shell? Most will not notice that. Most will not notice the difference between 17-25 fenders so they will not be far off and more plentiful than
the earlier fenders you will need the fender supports & splash aprons with those. I think the running board supports will work if you already
have them. If you are building the body the running boards may be a none issue also. My Firetruck is far from correct, but I don't think the
Museum it spent time in, the parade dignitaries & grand marshals nor the thousands of kids that have had their pictures taken in it @ school
presentations, trunk or treats & car shows ever noticed. I know my grand kids & Great grandkids don't care as long as they get to ride in it.
Keep up the good work.
Craig.

[signsup]

Thanks for all the input, Dave in OH turned me on to a used fender that will only take a short 10 hr trip and a hotel room to acquire. And, the patena should match my drivers fender and all is good.
Another forum member turned me on to a Model T club in GA that might contact it's members on my behalf to see if something is available closer to home. Either way, it looks like I do not have to go the reproduction route.
Now, I can spend that money on something else that this project may need, like new demountable tire rims.

Thanks to all.