Enthusiasts and collectors have adored the Ford Model A for nearly a century. The combination of simple design, ruggedness, and parts availability make it a favorite in the collector hobby. Model A Ford pickups don’t come much nicer than the 1931 model recently for sale on eBay.
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Flag Mounts Already Installed
This Ford Model A pickup was treated to a complete frame-off restoration about four years ago. It received a few mechanical upgrades for performance and daily drivability. The original steel body was finished in a gorgeous shade of blue single-stage paint. It shows well with a few minor imperfections.
There’s no evidence of rust or other body damage, and the chrome grille headlight buckets sparkle like new. Silvertown wide whitewall tires - opens in new window or tab.—mounted on steel wheels with chrome hub caps - opens in new window or tab. and trim rings - opens in new window or tab.— complete the restomod look. Flag mounts adorn the front fenders - opens in new window or tab. for parade duty.
The Ford Model A pickup’s cargo area presents just as nicely. The finished wood floor looks like it hasn’t seen a single load. The spotless bed matches the exterior, and the sale includes a matching blue cloth bed cover - opens in new window or tab.. Underneath, the frame and chassis were repainted in gloss black and upgraded with new period-correct suspension components and mechanical brakes.
Model A With a Starter Button
The original 201-cubic-inch inline flathead four-cylinder engine - opens in new window or tab. remains, matched with the correct and unsynchronized three-speed manual transmission beneath the side-opening hood. The setup is good for about 40 horsepower.
The powertrain can reach cruising speeds of around 60 miles per hour. In a nod to modernity, the original six-volt electrical system was upgraded to 12 volts, and an alternator - opens in new window or tab. replaced the original generator. Modern turn signals and LED tail lights - opens in new window or tab. are now in place.
Things look even more impressive on the inside. The interior was completely redone with new tan seat upholstery with black piping, matching door panels - opens in new window or tab. and headliner, and contrasting dark blue carpets. Seat belts were fitted.
The look is upscale, bright, and airy—a cut above what was originally in place. The original Ford Model A speedometer, fuel gauge, and odometer showing just 36,000 miles are all said to work. An aftermarket water temperature gauge - opens in new window or tab. and voltmeter add extra security. In a similar vein, the floor-mounted starter button - opens in new window or tab. has been relocated under the seat, along with a concealed cutoff switch to resist theft.
An Established Community
A robust network of organizations, parts suppliers, and devoted owners make the Ford Model A a great first collectible. One such club, the Model A Ford Club of America, is a particularly great resource. Founded in the 1950s, MAFCA - opens in new window or tab. claims to be the largest club in the world devoted to a single model. Its website is chock full of useful information.
A new owner just needs to pick up a couple of new flags and find a local parade.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.