I took the plunge and bought a 1915 Model T Touring. Engine serial number 909707, casting date of 9-16-15. The owner had the original vehicle registration from the first owner. I'm actually the 4th owner. I'm hoping to find some Owner's or Service Manuals for the car. If anyone knows the whereabouts of any manuals let me know. Thanks.
The serial number corresponds to September 28, 1915 which would make your car a 1916 Ford.
The 1916 model year was August 1915 through July 1916.
I think there was a discussion about your car in a recent thread.
I've been able to grow my collection to go with my T by watching eBay. Here's a period brochure up for bid now, for instance:
http://m.ebay.com/itm/350747443021?nav=SEARCH
It looks great Here's the earlier thread: http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/411944/454857.html?1403619492
Repro owners manuals are available from the vendors: http://www.modeltford.com/item/T2.aspx
Ford's service manual is also readily available: http://www.modeltford.com/item/T1.aspx
You can also read three versions of the owners manual online here plus other interesting ford literature: http://www.mtfca.com/books/bookmenu.htm
That's right about it being a 1916, according to the serial number, with some 1915 changes made to it. That doesn't keep it from being a great-looking car I wouldn't mind having.
I once saw an ad for a "1916 Model T Ford" and I thought, "Here is an honest person, admitting his T was an 1916 and not a 1915. " Turned out the T was a "black" 1917 made in the calendar year of 1916.
That is the same with my car. The serial number, 909707, was fabricated at the end of September 1915. The original California title shows the car as a 1915 year model.
A few years ago, I read that there were still more 1915 Fords than Henry built, because so many 1916 Black Fords were converted to 1915 Brass Fords.
That should make 1916 Fords real rare, if the facts are true.
The old gag about more 1915 Fords now than in 1915 is a humorous exaggeration, but it makes the point that a lot of the current ones have been converted from later models or made up from parts, like mine.
The good news is the AACA will accept your car but not one made in 1916.
David: That is one nice Touring!
I have a similar car with a number very close to yours. I too have documentation going back to a 1923 transaction when the original owner sold the car to the second owner. It also calls my car a 1915. I posted this info on your prior thread. The Bill of Sale shows my engine #910xxx. My casting date on the block is 9-14-15.
It sure would be fun to park them side by side & see what has been changed in the past 99 years
Gorgeous looking car. Heartiest congratulations!
The Ford Manual you inquired about are on ebay all the time, as is the parts book that you will need. You may also wish to find some original sales literature.
Thanks for everyone's response, it has been very helpful. David Tipton Fort Worth, TX