MTFCA Forum

This is one of the running board splash shields that came with my 1914 Runabout project. It does not look like the one in the Rootlieb catalog. Is this the correct one for my car? I realize I need to repair the small section cut out of the top front edge. Thanks, Art

Art-
That looks like a '17-'25 splash apron.
-Keith

Good eye Keith

Keith is right. The splash apron has a curved front edge to follow the curved front fender of the 17-25 cars. Your 1914 has straight fenders, so the end of the splash apron needs to be straight too.

Allan from down under.

It is actually a bit difficult to tell in that photo, however, yes it does appear to be a later curved front fender apron. A photo from a lower "straight in from the side" photo would be more revealing.

Great catch by the way!

It is possible to trim the front edge of the later aprons so that they will work on the earlier front fenders. If you want to save a few dollars, you could very carefully cut them back to properly fit the earlier front fenders.
I wouldn't really like to tell you how I know that.

When you look at the shields in your photo, the mounting points along the top are a distinguishing feature oh all the 17 and onwards splash panels on our Canadian cars. The earlier panels were made with cuts into them to allow fitting. These later ones have the whole top cut out except where they are held in place by the body mounting bolts. From my memory, the early shields have a plain top edge, whereas the top edge on the later ones is folded back so they hold a straight line much better.

Allan from down under.

A rear axle leak on a Model T is often caused by worn seals or improper gasket seating. Checking the differential fluid level and replacing old seals should help. It’s also a good idea to inspect the axles for wear, as excessive play can lead to persistent leaks even after replacing the seals.

An original would most likely have the hole for the rubber tube gas line hose.