MTFCA Forum

Is there information available that indicated if the original chassis, (frame, front and rear ends) in 1912 were gloss black or less glossy?
I have heard that the T frames were dipped. Was that the case from the first T's?

It was glossy when new, dulling (sometimes rapidly) over time to a semigloss eggshell finish. The paint was a mix of paint and varnish called “black brushing” and applied in two coats.

Gloss black.
The photos above are a great reference for pinstriping.
Note there are no "boxes" on the hood and no pinstripe on the back below the the seat platform.

: ^ )

I thought the question was about the chassis??????
Some very nice era photos of cars however.

I believe that around 1912, the chassis was somewhat glossy when being built, although probably not quite as glossy as was the body and fenders. I doubt that it retained its glossiness for very long once it was being driven on dusty roads.

Not many pure 1912 chassis photos around unfortunately. Here are a few 1913-1915 examples. Definitely glossy.

Keith, I think I can make out a box pinstripping on the rear seat bottom. It's looks faint but there? It does appear to have a break where the lower rear seat hinge is though? Pretty clear that the hood is not boxed on the top section.

Glad I saw this as I'm getting ready to do mine.