How do you do? I am Lester and I voluntarily want to become addicted to the Model T. I have collected antique telephones for several years and know from that endevor that it is easy for the less knowledgable to be taken to the cleaners on a purchase. Therefore, I was wondering if someone had a list of questions one should ask or things you should look for. I am not a rich man but, I believe I have enough set aside to buy a T and want to get started. I want a Touring car but, may be there is a particular year that is more desirable. Any help would be greatly apreciated. Thanks. If you want to call my number at home is 716-795-9373, at work 800-469-7593. LWB

Lester:

WELCOME ABOARD. Your best bet if you want to purchase a T is to get with members of your local Model T Club. They can give you good advice on buying a T. If you do not know of anyone in your area that is knowledgeable in Ts, let me know what your address is and I will put you in touch with the closest club.

Dave, thanks for the reply. I tried to send you an email but got a permenant error message not deliverable. Anyway, I live about 30 miles north of Buffalo, NY.
LWB

To me the first question is do you want a pre 17 with a brass radiator? They are a pain to keep clean, but man, they are pretty. I inherited a 1916, which I love, but if I was to buy one, I would probably get a 1913. I like that year for some reason and the gas lights are cool.

Lester,

Welcome aboard. A local club is one of your best sources of information and also possibly a car. I would also suggest not getting in a hurry. If you spend some time getting to know the cars (compare a stock touring to a heavier Fordor and you will see a big difference in driving - same with the speedster, decide if you want a brass or black radiator car, stock or speedster, etc.) Also getting a copy of McCalley's book The Model T Ford (available on this website) will give you some ideas. Special Interest Autos did a drive report on a 1914 touring #38 p14 which you may find interesting. There are also some price guides available which give you price ranges (Old Car Value Guide is one). And most importantly, decide what you want to do with the car. Show cars need to be more "correct" while you can have just as much fun with a driver that has an engine from one year and a body from another year. Performance is the same. (Ok a low head pre 18 engine should be a little more powerful..) For taking the grandkids for a ride, the touring and depot hack will haul more kids per trip. Some of my fondest memories are of my Dad hauling any kid in the neighborhood for a ride on Sunday afternoons. Or if you want to drive it a lot and you live up north, an enclosed car might work better for you. Also, if you are into real long range planning -- get one with an electric starter. I don't know anyone in there 90s who is cranking Ts. But they aren't that hard to drive once they warm up. Most of those questions can be answered by participating with a local club. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.

Lester:
If you like woodworking, you would enjoy a pre-1926 car better than a 26-27.

A non show car for fun. My 23 Huck is the right car for me. Local club is the best idea. I enjoy learning and the people at this this site and a local club will help. Others with the T bug are great people. Dont be in a hurry about driving once you have your T, made sure it runs well and you feel good about driving. My first six times out, I was pulled home four times. When weather is better enjoy, enjoy.