How to clean a Ford Model A

[@73technite]

Paul you are a lucky man. Every guy needs a Model T!

[@ModelA]

Right!

[@Colleentfay]

The Model A is my dream car; I fell in love as a teenager reading an article in "Popular Mechanics" more than 60 years ago. Now I am 77 and still enjoy viewing your great, and self-effacing videos. My budget & circumstances will keep me from ever owning a Model A, but you keep my dream alive. Thank you and God bless.

[@ModelA]

Thank you Colleen! There is a Model A for almost every budget. God bless,

[@TruthPoliceLegend]

LOL I'm 77-wanna date? I'm being funny here

[@ModelA]

@@TruthPoliceLegend Safe to presume you're talking about Colleen??

[@1956etol]

@@ModelA LOL

[@tobeornottobe9071]

I'm sorry to hear you can't own your own Model A but you inspire me to keep sharing mine by giving rides, taking folks out for birthdays and sharing The A any way I can. I'm 73 and I wasn't shopping for a Model A. It just followed me home. Dear wife said I could bring home any car I wanted as long as I could sleep in it. Luckily for me she loves the A and has not enforced her rule so far!

[@DrTheRich]

I just bought my first model A and first car in general. A yellow-brown Tudor 1929 (for some reason registered as build year 1931). It's a bit of a hooptie(I like that) but runs and drives fine and structurally in great condition. It doesn't have an oil filter or overdrive, I hope it's not too expensive to get those here in Europe, as I want it as daily driver. Also immediately joined the national model A club here, and had an amazing trip! The community is so great! Thanks for inspiring me to buy this car!

[@ModelA]

GOOD for YOU, Matthijs! Congratulations!!!!

[@DrTheRich]

If you ever visit the Netherlands, i'd love to give you a tour through this super green, flat and historical countryside, in my tudor

[@ModelA]

I'll hold you to that!!

[@1956etol]

@@DrTheRich A friend just sold a Model A Speedster to someone in the Netherlands... Several of my grandfather's cars ended up there in the 90's. You all must be really grabbing them whenever possible.

[@DrTheRich]

@@1956etol Oh cool, tell them to join the national club (or maybe they are already in if it's not their first) i haven't seen a speedster at the club jubileum last weekend. That's interesting though, so i might have seen it, or who knows, driven in one your grandfather owned. Mine was imported in 82 so i don't think it's it.

[@deborahashcroft2120]

Spray the dry washing cloth first then wipe the window so you don't get it on the fabric top 🤠 I have a 1931 model A that has been in my family for 72 years. I appreciate your videos and the fact you love model A and other older cars.

[@ModelA]

Thanks for the tip!

[@Biglug8888]

Looking forward to your next project!

[@W1LSU]

You read my mind exactly what I needed to know to keep my 1931Model AA pickup truck looking like 1931 many thanks for excellent information

[@ModelA]

Excellent!

[@vayabroder729]

Love your videos, Paul! They liven up my Saturday mornings. I agree with you, whitewalls look a little Guido on Model As.

[@ModelA]

Thank you Vayabroder!

[@myrlstone8904]

No where near as GUIDO as an over accessorized Model A. Whites work (almost) on the Deluxe Roadster. What’s the story on Blue Dots ? Actually come to think of it, Accessories could make for an interesting video topic.

[@vayabroder729]

@@myrlstone8904 Absolutely right; everything in moderation is the key.

[@ModelA]

@@myrlstone8904 If I am ever in a situation where I need to induce vomiting, I will make a video all about accessories.

[@vayabroder729]

@@ModelA 🤣😂

[@douglaslambert579]

Can’t wait to see your new project.

[@jefframsey5863]

Great information, Thank you Paul and Tina. FYI, many of the products that you use are available at Rv supply and parts stores. I buy the 303 protectant in one gallon jugs. Keep up the good work I really enjoy your channel.

[@ModelA]

thank you Jeff!

[@quailstudios]

Just got some 303 Protectant at the marine supply store. Thanks for the tip Paul and Tina!

[@donalamitos1730]

303 Protectant is available at auto parts stores. I purchased mine at Pep Boys. The product labeled for marine use contains the exact same protectant as the automotive version per an e-mail response I received from the manufacture.

[@ModelA]

Didn't know Pep Boys had it. Thanks!!

[@N-Scale]

Thank You Paul. Good to see you and Tina. Mike & Robin

[@eugenelevin8314]

So much T and A and Ash! ……..Bleche! Hahaha I have used the 303 and the dry wash-n-guard on recommendations in previous videos - they are awesome products . I use “bleche “ my whitewalls that’s a pre-boomer product! Always appreciate your tips and hints Car show tomorrow- thanks for the motivational video!

[@ModelA]

Thanks Eugene!!

[@eugenelevin8314]

@@ModelA You have become an integral part of , not just the nations, but the Worlds Model A community- I am so appreciative of your weekly efforts as are so many others . Great work always!

[@ModelA]

@@eugenelevin8314 I'm just a fellow Model A'er, man. Nothing special. Thanks!

[@bentonallen]

Great info, Paul! I can't wait to see what the next project is going to be! You and "T" stay safe out there, and 73

[@ModelA]

Thanks Jim

[@kenrhoda2573]

Thanks for the video Paul! That would be great if you could get one of those products to sponsor your channel! In a perfect world, you should sell a Model A car cleaning kit with all your recommended products! I know I would buy it! In the meantime, I’ll just look up each product individually and order them right now! Thanks Paul and looking forward to your next project!!!

[@ModelA]

Thanks Ken. The next project is supposed to show up today.

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

Another great video - thanks Paul!

[@ModelA]

Thanks again Rick

[@geoffreyclark2805]

Thank you Paul & Tina, great products and how-to demo. Can't wait for the next project car.

[@greghapp1681]

Paul and Tina you both are great and make a great team

[@ModelA]

Thanks Greg!

[@fordmodelabrasil5024]

beautiful to see the love for the ford model A

[@williambutler8624]

Older video, you folks have some Beautiful Model A's, enjoy all your videos, learn alot, I have a 1931 Deluxe TUDOR, I want to clean it up and get it looking like your MODEL A's, what are the 4 items you talked at the start of the video, you folks help alot with your great videos, THANKS for taking the time to share with everyone.

[@abn_guard_bum7439]

Super helpful Paul. Thanks for all the videos.

[@ModelA]

My pleasure!

[@MyRandyw]

Answered some of my questions that I didn't even know I had, thank you both.

[@BeardedWrencher]

Paul, another great video! I have been watching a ton of your videos lately in preparation to begin bringing my grandfather's old Model A back to life again. I think I am going to begin by giving the car a very good bath before attempting to get it going once again. It was unfortunately hauled to a storage unit in the middle of winter and is absolutely covered in road salt. I think a really good bath will help it feel a lot better about being brought back to life! The car is absolutely covered in dust and crap from poor storage conditions. It has good looking paint but it's definitely cracked on the fenders and full of imperfections. Should I do any sort of pre-wash? It makes me very nervous to hit it with a wash mitt or a pressure washer... Thank you Paul for all of your videos!

[@RobertKConant]

I am a Model A fan and have owned 2; a 1930 roadster and a 1931 Convertible Sedan (A400). I am living the Model A life vicariously through your great videos. In the video on products to care for a Model A or any car, you gave a humorous pronunciation to the Black Magic tire and rubber cleaner. I suspect that the company intended to pronounce their product as "BLEACH WHITE" as one of its purposes is to clean whitewall tires. Just my opinion. Hi to you both and thanks for your efforts.

[@ModelA]

Thank you Robert!! Well, we're simple people, and it makes us laugh. We find humor in the dumbest things sometimes.

[@robinimpey101]

New project car.....how about a Phaeton?? 😍 Can't wait to see what's next! Thanks for another great video.

[@ModelA]

That would be cool! Hopefully someday.

[@benevans902]

Lol love the rc in the fridge

[@ModelA]

I'm a frugal shopper! Tina buys the high priced stuff.

[@dalemettee1147]

I'm surprised Paul that you use Windex. I used to also but then saw the truth from an older lady in the neighborhood. "Why don't you use vinegar and water?" so, I mixed some up and Voila. Clean glass and no film. BTW model T could use it the house for all glass even on the TV screen.

[@ModelA]

I use it because it's cheap and familiar. Vinegar smell makes me sneeze.

[@dalemettee1147]

@@TinaShinn Maybe a clothes pin would help. haha

[@discerningmind]

As always, great video. And it's always nice to see Model T. When working with tire products in the garage, Does DriWash N Guard remove slippery products from the floor? Or, is there another product that you use?

[@ModelA]

It can, but the Bleche Wite is cheaper and works better on the floor. DriWash leaves the floor too slick.

[@robstephens]

I have been applying 303 to 100% of the tire (both sidewalls and the tread) and I don't wipe it off. It has completely eliminated dry rot and cracking on my older set of tires.

[@ModelA]

Nice! I hope it keeps working well for you.

[@ernielundquist2869]

I remember using 303 Protectant over 30 years ago. Was sold by American Propeller in Redding. At the aviation repair station I worked at in Santa Rosa ( I managed the Parts Dept.) the bosses always had me get that product, We would clean, wash, and sometimes wax customers airplanes. The glass cleaner I use even on my prescription glasses and sunglasses is, Glass Plus. Steak Free, Ammonia Free. On inside car windows and out looks like there's no glass in the channel. I get that from Ace Hardware here in Santa Cruz County, CA.

[@ModelA]

It's good stuff

[@bobbaemel4110]

Thanks Paul, went to Amazon and got the dri wash and the 303!

[@ModelA]

Excellent!

[@johnnyreyes3129]

Thanks for the demonstration you are the best one ☝️ continue like that.

[@elosogonzalez8739]

I use SPRAYWAY on all my glass. With or without window tint, it is THE BEST STUFF I've ever used! Available almosy everywhere. It comes in a white aerosol can with blue writong on it.

[@ModelA]

I like Sprayway also! I just don't like the price tag. You must be one of them rich folks! Hahahaa!!

[@elosogonzalez8739]

@@ModelA Ya know.......... I think the last time I bought it at that "W" place, it wasn't that bad. I'll give the others a go. Looking forward to seeing the next project. Any hints or scoops? Is a Speedster in our future?

[@ModelA]

Hints? Ok, here's a hint... It is afraid of termites

[@elosogonzalez8739]

@@ModelA A Model "T" for Tina?

[@ModelA]

No.

[@fredhayes5579]

what is used to polish headlamp reflectors? WhenI was a HS kid the silver tarnished quickly we used lampblack and kerosene. That was about 70 years ago! Fred Hayes Norwell Ma

[@ModelA]

Just regular silver polish.

[@marilynmoore6752]

Invisiglass is a great product for glass and nano wax is a great product also nano wax can also be used on glass

[@ModelA]

Thanks Marilyn!

[@TruthPoliceLegend]

Man, I'm with you on the tires. My latest purchase, a 31 Deluxe Roadster came with whitewalls but I never really liked whitewalls on my other 'As'. They grab unwanted attention but the WW are just not representative of Model A heritage. I'm a little uneasy with them but heck Deluxe Roadsters-what can I say? Not gonna change them but I wouldn't have them on any other 'A'. I wouldn't put extra antennas, continental kits, fender skirts, or other gaudy bling on my former '56 Chevy either. They detract from the simplicity which is the greatest appeal. To each his own.

[@myrlstone8904]

Lyle, I also have a 31 Deluxe Roadster, couldn’t agree more. For some reason this model seems to be an accessory magnet. The car’s beauty rests in the short windshield which seems to transform the total design. I like all A body designs, but for me the Deluxe Roadster moves into the Eye Candy realm, Paul’s car is a close second, followed by the Tudor.

[@TruthPoliceLegend]

@@myrlstone8904 Agree Myrl. The deluxe roadster has always been the creme de la creme for me but i really miss having a closed car for comfort and weather and sound quietness. Mine is Washington Blue. I don't do much work on them anymore since my 1930 tudor I restored in 1970-72 and drove to green bay Wisc. from flint mich and back taking the ferry over from Ludington. Never broke down- not once.

[@trevorlock642]

I just discovered Dri Wash 'n Guard has an Australian distributor. I've just ordered the 1 litre kit, which should work well on my classic 1970's motorcycles!

[@billdaws9817]

Hi Trevor, can you please advise the details for the Australian Distributor. Many Thanks Bill

[@jeffc6268]

I am curious about the proper upholstery fabric for the Model A. I’ve seen a mohair fabric and a woven fabric like that which in your sport coupe. Which is correct?

[@ModelA]

It depends on the year, body style, and trim level. They are all different. The judging standards is the source to find out for your particular car.

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

Is it me, or did the audio dim out around 6:30 when Tina began to demonstrate?

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

Audio came back at 9:10.

[@ModelA]

That's what happens when you leave the mic on the fender and forget to clip it onto yourself.

[@robinimpey101]

@@ModelA How about I do subtitles for your videos in trade for a Model A? 😉

[@ModelA]

@@robinimpey101 Very simple! When you do the subtitles, you just add a pile of cash to them!

[@robinimpey101]

@@ModelA ☹️

[@n55ma29]

Izzat "Lombard Blue" on the '31 Sport Coupe wheels and stripe? I had a Washington Blue 68B and looked for 20 years for a Lombard Blue chip. Never found one, so I used the blue from the 1970s California license plates and called it "Lombard Blue".. Made an OK contrast.

[@ModelA]

That is Hessian Blue. the MAFCA color book has the correct paint chips you needed

[@monicaa.6468]

Good morning, Early bird’s I have a question can you tell me where I can Purchase a car duster brush like the one Tina is using it I will really appreciate thank you

[@ModelA]

She got that one on Amazon, I believe.

[@monicaa.6468]

@@ModelA there many brands by any chance do you have the brands name?

[@ModelA]

It says "The Original California Car Duster" on the handle. She says it is this one- www.amazon.com/California-Car-Duster-62557-9-Wooden/dp/B0844MPPRF?dchild=1&keywords=California+car+duster&qid=1631384519&sr=8-11&linkCode=ll1&tag=paulshinn-20&linkId=496e58fcc676c02fc356507b9485127c&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

[@monicaa.6468]

@@ModelA thank you for the info. And have a Wonderful weekend

[@ModelA]

You too!

[@1956etol]

Only you, Paul, can get away with referring to Tina as the 'Model T'. She's a Saint!

[@ModelA]

Hey Ed! We both submitted our MAFCA ballots with an "X" next to your name. Good luck!!

[@AdamTillontheWeb]

If you’re ever up for a follow up something on cleaning the underside running gear and engine compartment would be great. I suspect it’s all variations on a theme but always good to see different ideas.

[@ModelA]

We showed cleaning an underside on the Operation Hooptie series. Will show again at some point, I'm sure.

[@AdamTillontheWeb]

@@ModelA oh true, I’ll go hunt that one down. Thanks!

[@AdamTillontheWeb]

Have been looking forward to this one, thanks!!

[@ModelA]

Thank you! I hope it wasn't a disappointment.

[@AdamTillontheWeb]

@@ModelA not in the slightest, always a pleasure

[@jayo4539]

I'm having a problem with the tail lights on my ford model a?

[@alexdade6381]

Great video, Paul, but you didn't talk about what you use to spiff up the engine room

[@bodiejohnson4584]

Thank you so much for these videos you do! I finally got a ‘31 Tudor, but it’s been sitting in the elements for a few weeks. You say it’s not good to wash it with a garden hose and a bucket of suds? Why not?

[@ModelA]

Just my personal preference. When it's really filthy, you have no choice

[@bodiejohnson4584]

@@ModelA Thanks Paul!!

[@myrlstone8904]

Paul, Any special thoughts on the aging lacquer syndrome? My car gets a four foot visual score at worst ( rear rumble area) to predominantly a one to two score for the remainder. I don’t mind it at all but would like to stabilize the paint as much as possible. Gloss is no problem as the surface finish is like glass. I do occasionally get questions about the appearance, but this offers the opportunity to explain the enamel/lacquer combo. Yes, it is an original authentic color combo, and No, all Model A cars were not black. The black paint thing seems to be gospel with the public.

[@ModelA]

The black paint is a Model T thing, and even then, only for so many years of Model T production. Anyway, I use the DriWash on the fordor's lacquer and it does an excellent job.

[@angelaunger1935]

Would you happen to know how to remove water spots? I used the dry wash and guard, but they would not budge.

[@ModelA]

Vinegar gets rid of water spots pretty well.

[@KK-TO]

Hi Paul, Are you water adverse because of rust or is it an environmental thing? Windex is great on glass, but keep it off any metal trim as the ammonia in it is corrosive to metal.

[@ModelA]

It's because of rust.

[@dblackkw]

Hi Paul. I went to the MARC Meet this past weekend in Asheville N. C. and on the way home I ran into some rain and the roof leaked some and now I have water stains in the back wall and seat. Any suggestions on cleaning Bedford Cord water stains?

[@ModelA]

steam cleaning van! I have a guy who does all mine. took stains out of my sport coupe top that I thought were permanent

[@jimlangley697]

How do I get the Summa product?

[@phbillet]

Hi Paul, I have a Sports coupe with a La Baron Bonny top in T - 39 stay fast tan on tan, I see you have the “guy” clean you top when they do your furniture. Is there a product to wash the top ,maybe a soft soap or similar, I know I’d doesn’t rain much in California as my son lives there, but it does in Sydney ,is your Coupe painted in clear over base coat it is so shiny or full colour two pack. Thanks,Peter

[@ModelA]

Thanks Peter. The coupe is single stage lacquer on body and enamel on fenders, as original. I don't have any Model As in clear coat. The canvas top could be cleaned with a canvas type cleaner and a scrub brush if really necessary, but I just have "the guy" do it. I'm an idiot and I don't want to mess it up.

[@rich40701]

After watching this I bought the 64oz bottle that came with a separate smaller spray bottle. The top spray mechanism spins around freely and thus when you shake the bottle it freely leaks everywhere ! This stuff wasn't cheap and you would think they would supply a descent spray bottle.

[@ModelA]

Dangit! Sorry about that. Our bottle doesn't leak. Perhaps they will send you another?

[@richardtaylor9408]

@@ModelA I got a hoopty spray bottle!

[@ModelA]

Hahahaaa!!! They must have sent it to you instead of me on accident!

[@ryanellis642]

Paul shinn how did you create your intro and exit with the digital model a.

[@ModelA]

a friend did it and sent it to me

[@justinboyer5799]

how to seal the windshield on 1931 model a.

[@jeffrose133]

Another fantastic video. Do you also use the ceramic coating on the original paint? We have a 55 Caddy and I have been thinking about trying ceramic coating. Thanks and keep the videos coming-- Can't wait for the next project!!

[@ModelA]

As I pointed out in the video, the only product I have used on the original paint is DWG. Only just recently got the ceramic stuff.

[@jeffrose133]

@@ModelA OK, that's what I thought but I just wanted to confirm, thanks

[@definethedollar]

Wanted to ask your expertise: my ‘31 Roadster has a ‘29 (January) engine and a fiberglass body. Do you know if that immediately disqualifies me or might I still be able to enter Touring or Modified and just lose whopping points on the body? I think I know your answer, but it also has hydraulic brakes…should I go back to original? If so, what would I need to do in addition to removing everything…do the holes need to be sealed somehow? Thanks!!!!

[@ModelA]

It's all up to the judges at your event. But I have to ask- If you have a Model A that heavily modified, why are you interested in any sort of judging? If you modified your Model A to that level, you obviously did it with another goal in mind. Making it easier for you to drive, whatever. If you want a Model A to do well in judging, then you need to build one with that goal in mind instead. Yep, you already know what I'm going to say about hydraulic brakes! Hahaa!!

[@definethedollar]

@@ModelA thanks for the reply! My Dad bought it in the early 80’s (had been modified then). He drove it with a rusty gas tank until it wouldn’t start or anything. It sat since then (about 40 years)…I took over and decided to try and restore it best I can. Got the judging standards book (on your recommendation) and have been discovering how not original it actually is. Personally, I’d like to get to as original as possible, but I’m not going to be able to replace the whole body, which makes me wonder how far to try and go with it.

[@ModelA]

Man, just do what makes you happy. To heck what other people think!

[@francesbennett2922]

What do you recommend for cleaning the roof. It is still original! What is it made out of?

[@ModelA]

My car or yours? What body style?

[@francesbennett2922]

@@ModelA My car a 1931 Model A Tudor.

[@ModelA]

Ahha. I use 303 Protectant on the vinyl roofs

[@dennymangan7385]

Paul where can I buy the Suma nano wax. Can’t seem to locate it.

[@ModelA]

www.sumaperformance.com/collections/ceramic

[@discozula4469]

Hey Paul what'd the difference with a model a and model t bell housing bolt patterns?

[@ModelA]

I don't know. Haven't messed with a Model T

[@discozula4469]

I hear the bolt patterns to the transmissions are simular but different enough that you can’t put an A transmission on a T block withouth modification

[@ModelA]

Not sure why one would even want to do that

[@brantley3234]

Hey Paul, just picked up my A from Pittsburgh. I'm excited to get home. Do you need to add any additives to the gas? I know these cars were before leaded gas but didn't know if needed anything. Thanks!

[@mafcawebmaster4237]

Many of us use Marvel Mystery oil in the gasoline. Doesn't use much. Keeps the valve train lubricated. One container lasts me for months. Have 22,000 miles on my rebuilt engine. Purrs like a kitten.

[@brantley3234]

@@mafcawebmaster4237 thank you so much, that's exactly what I was looking for

[@ModelA]

Yep, what he said.

[@mackfisher4487]

Tina, I appreciate your appearance in your husband video, as a technician I know how difficult it can be to work for engineers, but I suspect you have leverage so you can maintain script and fair working conditions. Don't tell Paul, I asked but if you were to start a KZbin channel what would be the subject matter?

[@ericeriksen8684]

I got a gravel road I have to use to get to the paving. It seems to be a waste of time to clean everything to museum quality.

[@ModelA]

She's doing this becuse the car is entered in a Concours

[@galentaylor9953]

Why do you choose NOT to use a garden hose or soap and water? My only caveat would be to not use a spray nozzle.

[@ModelA]

Just to keep water out of nooks and crannies. I don't take these cars out in the rain either.

[@truthreigns7]

Why do you not use water and soap on your car?

[@ModelA]

Rust

[@truthreigns7]

@@ModelA okay. Thank you

[@mr_paw_t]

I hope everyone gives these videos a "thumbs up" and subscribes! Great videos from the nicest boomers online. We're looking forward to seeing the next project! :)

[@ModelA]

Thanks, Boomer!!!

[@scotlawrence]

I dont own a Model A, but I would like to someday. This video is the first time I have heard, ever, about not washing a car with a hose! interesting. I'm guessing the reason is: A car like this is clearly not a "daily driver", it can deliberately, by choice, only be used in nice dry weather! which means the car can theoretically never see rain or snow ever again. Which means the car will never get wet, even for washing, which is the best way to prevent rust. Is that the reasoning for not washing with a hose?

[@ModelA]

I don't wash my daily driver with a hose either.

[@k6aaq64]

Say it 3 times...........Bleeeeche White. Unlike the product we make there is no NaOCL or it would eat the rubber. Have a good week Paul!

[@ModelA]

I should have asked you first, OM!!! What product does your fine business make? I'd sure like to try it. You guys make great stuff.

[@k6aaq64]

@@ModelA we used to own Armor All and STP as they came with Acquisitions but after the allotted time for ownership ( where you are not buying and gutting companies for the stuff you want) they have been sold. Short answer is that we make no Automotive Products.

[@ModelA]

We should team up and develop a superior automotive product.

[@Rob-hw5wr]

I think Tina is a Model A+++

[@clydeb7788]

Nice video, but what about swirls in the paint on my sport coupe I have to be very careful cleaning it I use a buffer make it swirl free don't think I would use spray stuff at my car I wash the dirt off you should show your sport coupe in the sun showing how the paint looks with the product you are using anyway your sport coupe is a real nice looking car

[@ModelA]

Thanks Clyde. My sport coupe has been seen in direct sunlight MANY times in my videos and in the 2021 Ford calendar. No swirls.

[@danterry6328]

Somehow I don’t think your cars ever get that dirty.

[@ModelA]

They do, occasionally. Especially on cross-country trips. DriWash N Guard seems to repel dirt though.

[@markymark903]

Whoever said to throw away a microfiber towel after one use was drinking their own bathwater.

[@WACRE44]

I would turn the tires around and get rid of that ugly ugly white !!!