OT - Kind of, is this the first Ford Model T style front end (1907)?

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Model T Ford Forum: Forum 2013: OT - Kind of, is this the first Ford Model T style front end (1907)?
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Rob Heyen - Nebraska on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 12:10 pm:

Take a look at this picture of the 1907/08 Ford six cylinder racer.



I've looked at this pic for months, and every time I see it I think "Model T speedster." However, I could not put my finger on why? The Model N (R and S) had the famous Ford wishbone and front end, so, what is different about this racer.

Finally, a day or two ago, it dawned on me. Read the following account about the racer:



I believe this is a predecessor to the Model T front end. As the article says, "and alignment of the front axle is maintained by a pair of diagonal radius rods terminating at another ball joint ATTACHED TO THE BOTTOM OF THE MOTOR."

Models NRS had a ball joint attached to the transmission frame, a bolted on addition to the car frame that contained the transmission (separate from the motor). I think this is the first time we see the wishbone attached to the engine pan itself. And, it was tried "under fire" with numerous high speed race tests.




Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By John Danuser on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 11:29 pm:

Rob the front axle shown is very close to a Fordson front axle


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Rob Heyen - Nebraska on Wednesday, December 18, 2013 - 12:31 am:

John,

Sure the same principle.



And a little like this 1907 predecessor to the Fordson. That may be a Model K axle under the tractor?



Hope your feeling better, good to hear from you,

Rob


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Stan Howe Helena, Montana on Wednesday, December 18, 2013 - 01:19 am:

Interesting to see that they used the much maligned Buffalo carburetor on the racer.


Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Rob Heyen - Nebraska on Wednesday, December 18, 2013 - 01:39 am:

Stan,
The Buffalo was used on the World Record 24 Hour race winner too. Apparently they had success with it. I believe the 1906 K used a Kingston and the change was made to Buffalo for 1907/1908.

Hope your wintering well,
Rob


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