1931 Ford Model A Deluxe Coupe

1931 Ford Model A Deluxe Coupe

This 1931 Ford Model A Deluxe Coupe is a prime example of a vehicle that has been preserved to be as it was the day it came out of the factory. While it is not in original condition, a restoration done, probably 25 years ago has served this vehicle well. The previous owner had driven the car around their home at Lake Berryessa and maintained its running gear well.

I have a collection of mostly Lincolns and this car was in storage where I store my other vehicles. The previous owner had passed away and the car remained un-used. After cleaning out the fuel system, rebuilding the carburetor and giving it a tune up, the car ran and has provided reliable transportation for me to and from the local grocery store!

This car was originally black but was repainted when the restoration was done. I chose not to repaint it again -yes, there are some imperfections, but found them not to be glaring and in fact thought that they contributed to the overall charm of the car.

This car was built at the San Francisco factory on Mission Street and based on the engine number, was assembled February 23, 1931. (Ford Model A Club research) To my knowledge, this car never left California spending a portion of its life in the San Fernando Valley but most of its life in the Bay Area.

I have done the following:

Rebuilt the carburetor

Replaced the fuel shut off valve & fuel filter

Rebuilt the fuel gauge

Added a dash light

Rebuilt the water pump

Replaced the front engine motor mount

Replaced the windshield weather strip

Rebuilt the vacuum wiper motor

Replaced the cooling fan, fan belt, hoses and installed a thermostat as well as new coolant

Changed the oil seasonally and greased the vehicle as well

Installed a power shut off switch

Replaced the electrical junction box

Installed a new Optima 6 volt battery, new cables and aftermarket electrical system fuse

Replaced the generator cut-out with a voltage regulator

Replaced the transmission shift lever, shifting forks and installed a transmission dipstick

Since the factory shock absorbers were missing, I found a set, rebuilt and installed them

This car will make a great addition to anyone's Model A collection or simply an unusual vehicle to get around town.