MTFCA Forum

A new Model T owner friend of mine has a 1920 Roadster with a problem. The cotter pin worked loose from one of the top socket pins (see photos) resulting in loss of the pin.

Does anyone have or know of a source for the pin?

What about a source for the T-head cotter pins? In a 1920 they should be nickel plated...since RV Anderson passed I don't know of a source. He was always so great at providing period correct parts....a great loss to the hobby and those who counted him as a friend.

We have the T headed cotter pins that Randle had made that are plated.

We might have a beat up top iron that might have the round pin in it as well but would have to check our used pile.

I'll take a look tomorrow.

Thank You Steve

Thanks Steve, helpful as ever. You can email or pm me with what you find out.

I've never seen one of those pins come loose. You might investigate clevis pins. Good hardware stores usually have a variety of them. Of course, if Lang's can send one along with the T-headed cotter pin, you'll be all set. If the pin isn't a tight fit in the top socket I'd investigate having it brazed.

What is shown is "Mickey Mouse."

1918 and later two-man tops had square sockets and didn't use the T-head pins and leather straps. The square sockets had obvious outward seams as shown in your photos.

The square sockets use a clip that slides up and down the top socket.

Any rivets at the pivots points shouldn't require any type of pin or clip to hold the rivet in. The rivet should be firmly attached to the top socket. The purpose of the T-head pin or the previously mentioned clip is so the bow can be positioned in the upper or lower "eyelet" on the socket, not to retain the rivet.

Hope what I posted makes sense. I'd post photos but I'm walking but I have to turn off the computer and walk down to the parents' house for chicken dinner.