On Saturday, September 15 the car went to its new temporary home in Townsend, MA. Lenny Smith and Bill Harper have agreed to lead the restoration work. They are two of the most knowledgeable model T mechanics in the country. They were pleased with the general condition of the car and actually excited to see what good shape it’s in. No promises offered, but there is lots of good hope. Serious work will begin in the middle of October when Bill’s schedule frees up.

Gary from LGL Towing in Boxborough, MA did the heavy lifting to get the car to Townsend.  He’s a great guy and a pro.  If you need a tow in the Acton-Boxborough area call 978-264-4400

This is Bill Harper – perhaps the most agile 58 year old guy you’ll ever meet.  He removed the coils and patiently explained to me what they do…. I’m still not sure I understand, though!  But Model T’s all have  little wooden boxes like these that are part of the electrical system.

Lenny Smith and Bill Harper –  Ready to Restore!

Like most of the other fabric, the convertible top is rotted and useless. But the metal and wood bows are in good shape – save a little surface rust.  They were taken to Meredith New Hampshire to brother Dave’s blacksmith shop where a brace was welded onto a weak spot and lots of wire brushing with a grinder got them looking much better.

After and before….  It’s amazing what a grinder with a wire brush can do.

Two coats of rusty metal primer and two coats of glossy black enamel and they look good as new!

So… this will hang in the garage until we can purchase a new, top fabric kit and we’ll be all set on rainy days!