Hi all!

So I have been working on a '25 TT for a gentlemen and he also has a "1911" Model T firetruck. I say "1911" because I'm unsure of the exact year but that is the year he told me. Anyways, his dad is aging and he would like to have it done before his dad passes away. It is in pieces now but the engine has been rebuilt and everything has been sandblasted and repainted. He is interested in hiring someone to finish it for him and asked if I could ask around the model T club.

Please comment if you know someone who would be able to assist. We are located in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Thank you!

Sounds like a project for Uncle MIkey.

It sounds like fun! I'd be glad to do it, Uncle Jack, but I'm 707 miles or 10-1/2 hours away from Cincinnati, according to an internet search.

On the other hand, you're practically right next door!

If he wants it done,a little shipping shouldn't bother him.My shop is full,of my stuff.

With help from a member and putting my glasses on, I realized it is not a model T. If anyone can still help please message me. Also if you can help with identification, feel free! the story is that it was an original Cincinnati firetruck. That's really all I know..

John-
More pictures would help in the identification.
-Keith

Try:
Hand In Hand Restorations
Ken Soderbeck
Jackson, MI
He is a well known restorer in the antique fire apparatus community.
You should be able to find him doing a Google search. I think he only works on early fire apparatus and even if you don't hire him to do the entire job, he is the guy that will be able to provide the correct, quality decorations. He also manufactures the aluminum matting for the floorboards and running boards. I've dealt with him on a couple occasions and he is good guy to deal with. He does quality work.

Cinti has a well established fire museum. If this is in fact an original Cinti firetruck, that museum will likely have record of this truck and it's history.
Regards,
Scott in Cinti

It sounds to me like Soderbeck is the guy for the job. I don't know him, but I'd trust Adam D's recommendation.

Soderbeck's place burned down a couple years ago not sure he is in the business anymore.

more pictures would help, if it is Cincinnati it was very likely an Ahrens- Fox made locally there. Soderbeck is still in business but has a very long waiting list.

John I have the name for you. Todd Williams here in topeka,Ks. Todd runs a renown restoration shop but his real job is fire cheif. He has two T fire trucks, one American Le France and one other truck in his personal collection. Todd has also restored and maintains all the antiques fire trucks Topeka has. Anyone here who knows Todd will tell you, if you want something restored right and correctly, Todd is the person. Right now he is one of five people on the team from across the nation to restore Evil Knievels Show truck.

Send me an email thom.ty@hotmail.com and i will put you in touch.

I can tell you for certain that it is an Ahrens-Fox. The engine, flywheel, and pedals are a giveaway. I had one of my own. It is certainly later than 1911, though. Can't tell from the photos whether or not it was the front-mounted piston pump type or not.
As stated above, Ken Soderbeck is still in business, but much in demand. He has been "going to retire" for over 20 years, so I don't know if he is taking any new clients. Also, your friend needs to know that this is going to be a VERY expensive engine to restore; if it is indeed a piston-pumper, the plating alone will probably run over $10,000.

One of Todds T fire trucks

Hal Filinger near Philadelphia, PA is an extremely well known and respected early firetruck restorer. His phone is 215-513-7572. He also supplies parts and apparatus for all pre-WWII firetrucks.

So there now are three highly-qualified restorers listed above who specialize in very old Fire Trucks! Isn't this forum great?!!