I know that a lot of Model "T" guys also have Model A Fords. Does anybody know how to remove the screen from inside the gasoline cowl tank filler neck,...."WITHOUT" the special tool that the manuals talk about?
I just use my thumbs/fingers and it spins right out. Shouldn't be to difficult unless it hasn't been removed in a long time, or is rusted.... Not sure what year your car is, but that's for my 31 coupe. I can't remember if 28/29's are different or not.
After thinking about this some more I remembered there was a threaded version and a tab version. My car has the threaded version. The tool you talk about only works on the threaded version.
Both styles should use the same tool. There are 4 slots around the rim. Try sticking 2 screw drivers, one on ether side and see if you can twist the screen.
http://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/5038
most 30-31 tanks are the tab type, less than 1/4 turn is all it takes. Mark's idea sometimes works, if it helps use a ford type adjustable wrench to hold the screwdriver shanks. You can also sometimes tap them out with a screwdriver against the raised lip and a hammer.
You could also find a piece of thick metal to bridge the opening and turn it out with that.