Story and Review of my 1930 Ford Model A

[@jimmccoskey8253]

Delightful! Thank you for the splendid videos. I'm an old guy, 72, who's been driving the same 1930 Model A Ford Tudor since high-school. It was my Dad's car and I love every piece of it.

[@AstraWerke]

That's my dream plan: Have the car as companion until I can't drive it anymore - then passing it on to a worthy successor.

[@j.1294]

Ich finde es sehr schön und beeindruckend, daß sich ein junger Mensch mit Vorkriegs-Autos beschäftigt. Weiter so!

[@craigroberts3982]

I have a 30 coupe in the middle of the US and couldn't agree more. I'm happy you're enjoying it

[@dblackkw]

I'm glad I stayed to the end the hand crank was worth it all! Very well detailed and well spoken young man you are. Thank you for this video as I'm dreaming night and day to get one.

[@anthonyhendrikx6175]

Good explanation of a model A Ford👍 I am also a big fan of prewar cars🤓

[@dougsather2939]

I have a 30 coupe (45B) also. I like mine to,mine was made in feb 1930. Yours has the round speedometer that makes it a mid to late 1930. Great video. Thank You 😇🙏

[@fiddlington]

Thank you . I really enjoyed this more than any video about the Model A I’ve seen, and I’ve watched many. This was very informative and thanks for taking the time to do it in English. That car is in very good hands!

[@fredhubler4128]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts about & experience with the Model A! I sense that we have quite a kindred spirit when it comes to old, mechanical things! We purchased our '29 Tudor 7 years ago in "original" condition, so the amount of work involved in making it road-worthy was comprehensive. A labor of love and quite rewarding. Since that time I've enjoyed about 24,000 kilometers of driving it and always find the experience very therapeutic. It would be a pleasure to meet you & exchange stories if you ever visit the eastern US! A little tip on how to get into 1st gear effortlessly - when rolling to a stop in neutral with the clutch engaged, just at the moment before the car comes to a complete stop, push the clutch pedal in and it will drop right into gear without noise or clashing. This works well for momentary stops while in traffic or at intersections. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going for a ride in the A ;)

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks for the story - the downside of driving a model A is that driving every other car seems like a boring child's toy afterwards. xD Shifting into 1st just before coming to a standstill is a great idea - I just don't like standing on the clutch for an entire red light phase... After a while, the leg starts to get shakey and taking off smoothly becomes increasingly difficult. Maybe I'll just need to exercise a little more ;)

[@fredhubler4128]

@@AstraWerke It's certainly not a clutch you would want to hold for any length of time! Where I live, there are few traffic lights & many cows :)

[@AstraWerke]

@@fredhubler4128 As much as I like driving in city traffic, stop&go really is something the Model A wasn't made for. Them return springs are STRONG xD

[@mikepeace1798]

Another, although expensive is to have a Mitchell overdrive, this has syncro, leave the gearbox in 1st and drop the overdrive into neutral, lights change, clutch in, select OD low and away you go 😁

[@stupitdog9686]

Loved this video! As a Brit, who travells a lot, I have always enjoyed the German sense of humor ... it's so dour .. but it cracks me up! (Installing Seatbelts !!) This really makes me want to own one of these beauties. Thank you so much for a lovely, interesting, warts and all, review.

[@justaguy2738]

Cool to see that y’all across the pond share the love for model A ‘s ! Bravo my friend

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks :D

[@RMphy89]

I never thought I’d see a full panic stop of a car from this era.

[@nixieandyakyak3837]

I appreciate you taking the time to make this video. Great job.

[@Mr19thcenturyman]

Arizona is a nice dry place to get your car from. Mine came from Minturn, Colorado. Thanks for the videos. Writing from Englewood, Colorado.

[@BrodieBr0]

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful story! I love how car enthusiasts can enjoy a car no matter where it's from and no matter where we live. On the opposite end of your spectrum as a lover of durable diesels, I have a 1983 W123 300D Mercedes that originated in Germany and ended up in my hands about 5 years ago and is my daily driver.

[@AstraWerke]

Cars are really a great way to get a conversation going! The W123 is still a pretty popular sight in Germany and I was allowed to drive a well preserved 250D once. Indeed a very comfy ride. Funnily though, the Model A has alot more low-end torque xD Diesels are great - torque is the single most important thing an engine can have. Nothing beats cruising along at 30kph with the engine chugging along at 500rpm, stepping onto the accelerator and hearing each cylinder fire individually!

[@BrodieBr0]

​@@AstraWerke Ah, I've met many good friends from the topic of cars. haha I can imagine you must make some time for conversations when you go to get groceries with your Model A especially in Germany wanting to know it's history. Here in the USA there's pretty much no W123's around so it gets a bit of notice when I take it out but I can imagine there being a lot of them in Germany still. They're so reliable and durable! I couldn't agree more about Torque and you've got me wanting to drive a Model A to feel it. haha I have an uncle that has one so I'll have to get in touch with him. Totally agree with how you feel about new cars. I think the most important thing we could have is a good safe driver...but they keep worrying about making cars safer. In the end a car will only be as safe as the driver anyways. When you drive your model A, you have to concentrate fully on driving the car and paying attention to everything around you...in new cars you have too much tech to distract you. I know for sure that makes you a great driver. I will never drive anything newer than 1990 again. I had a 2014 Toyota Prius and absolutely hated it with all the tech on it. They do have their place because I know people enjoy the new stuff...but they can have it. lol

[@AstraWerke]

@@BrodieBr0 Fuel stops do indeed often take their time. The 30 litre tank fills up quickly, but the conversations keep going. I managed to forget the fuel filler cap on the running board on such an occasion xD Luckily, I found it in the streets a few blocks further, but that could have gone waaay wrong! If you get a chance to drive a Model A, don't miss it! You'll have to keep your pulse below 80 though - otherwise you'll shift too quickly and press the gas too hard. On my first drive, I wanted to downshift for a roundabout and started grinding gears... The owner told me to put it in 3rd, pull the advance up and just let the engine do what it does best. And lo and behold, the engine pulled that massive fordor out of that 15mph hole right up to cruising speed. No accelerator pump on the carburettor, so you had to be easy on the throttle, but that's the sort of stuff I love about cars - when you have to know just what to do in order to get it to perform. I'll say this: Our 2006 Ford Focus is really a good car to get you from A to B. It is still pretty dumb, doesn't have a touchscreen, electronic handbrake, neutral safety or any of that jazz. As a beginner, I could play around with it and prepare pretty well for the transition to the Model A. That's the sort of car that 95% of all people are happy with - a reliable mode of transport. What annoys and distracts me are all the modern gimmicks that beep and flash at you, tell you the obvious or have you take the eyes off the road to fiddle with. I have a drivers license, so I don't need the car to tell me I shall obide the laws of the street. Thank you. Imho, driving schools should let you drive a clapped out 90s car - Fiat Pinto, Honda Civic, something like that. If you can drive that, you can drive anything. But an electronic handbrake for a beginner means that he'll have to teach himself how to use the manual one in his car. Because it will not be the latest model!

[@BrodieBr0]

@@AstraWerke haha The old fuel filler cap...I an notorious for forgetting those even if I'm not in conversation. I have all of mine tied to my cars/trucks so I don't lose them xD I just love seeing what everyone else is driving hoping to see something interesting like your Model A pop up while pumping fuel. Another thing I love about old cars...even if you have one of the same make, they all drive just a little bit differently. I've driven plenty of non-synchronized transmissions in my 48 years...I have a 1949 Dodge 2 ton former hay bail hauling truck with a 4 speed trans, 2 speed rear end. haha My grandad bought it new for the farm we had. All original and still runs and drives although a top speed of 75 to 80kph won't get you anywhere fast but who needs speed when we've got style! The farm was sold when I was about 10 years old but some of the equipment stayed in the family. I did reach out to my Uncle and we plan to get together after the holidays and go for a wee trip in his Model A. Thanks for the tips, they'll come in very handy once the day comes! Still, totally agree with how you see modern cars and how you think drivers should be taught. You perfectly described my Prius.... that thing would beep or flash a light at you for everything. I have 9 vehicles and non of them so much as have a check engine light...only gauges that are vital to making sure the engine is operating normally. No ''lane departure light and beep'' no ''indicator on excessively beep'' etc. And they're making self driving cars...I can't even comment on that. lol

[@mlackey9812]

Just half way through your video and I just love it! I too use a 1930 Ford Mode. A Couple as a daily driver. Love it! Btw....yes, adding a Michelle overdrive makes a significant difference that's worth the cost. I look forward to seeing more videos from you!

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks! Regarding a Mitchell: Well, on a heavy Fordor, it might be worth it, but with the Coupe, I don't mind changing into 2nd for steep hills - and I set me a personal speed limit of 50mph to keep the braking distance acceptable, so I don't really need the overdrive there, either.

[@atrader888]

Today I found a 1930 Model A coupe in great shape and a driver. Your excellent video inspired me to move ahead and join your adventure. My last old ride was a 1934 Buick 40 Series, 3 window coupe with a rumble seat. I bought it, cleaned it up and drove it every day for 4 years and foolishly sold it to buy a 1964 Ford Falcon Futura Sprint. Now that I am older and wiser, I have realized what I missed. Tomorrow I am going back and buy the A. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@AstraWerke]

Wow, that is nice to hear! I wish you best of luck with your Model A; mine has yet to let me down :D A '34 Buick sounds like a posh car to own - the mid and late 30s cars have a much more refined look to them, compared to the Model A - but spare parts could be alot harder to obtain, I'd imagine. Best Wishes Adrian

[@jamesv6170]

I really enjoyed this video. Very comprehensive. I learned a lot about this great car.

[@johnbourke723]

Wonderful explanation in your usual quirky style!!

[@mrsimpleesarcastik3494]

Outstanding video!! Your English speaking ability is top shelf! I wish more people in American spoke with the intelligence of yourself!!

[@hootch3133]

Great video I live in Canada and have a 31 coupe with the rumble seat also blue ,they are a blast to drive. Looking forward to watching more of your videos!

[@mickphillips6735]

Really enjoyed that, I'm buying an A when I move to Spain

[@leoopen4136]

Loved the video. you give it your personal touch and it's very interesting. I dream of having a Ford A for many years and hope once I will be able to fulfill my dream. In the meantime, watching you was very encouraging. Thanks

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks alot - I'm glad you found it interesting. A couple of months later, I still have nothing to regret - the car still is as reliable as it was the first day. Maintenance needs to be done, of course, but everything is available and all you need is basic tools. Don't rush it - buying a car is a pretty big decision - but don't fear either. They're fun little cars!

[@chemopia]

Excellent video. I can't believe I watched the whole thing. I too love the sound of the 4 cylinder 40hp low compression engine. NO car on the street makes that sound.

[@CentreWheel]

Really enjoyed your story and review. I watched to the end for the “crank start” demo. Nice job of articulating the pros and cons of owning and driving a 90 year old Model A in today’s world. I have a 1930 Sport Coupe undergoing an engine rebuild at the moment. All fun stuff. :)

[@cesarcastillo9159]

Really enjoyed this video, super informative and I am thinking about getting one myself

[@frankissac7540]

I realize I am kind of randomly asking but does anybody know of a good place to watch newly released movies online ?

[@danielpatterson4670]

Great video and really informative! Looking at maybe selling my car and moving on to one of these. Thanks for the info!

[@butch2kow549]

Excellent video and really enjoyed your comments. I know what your mean about the driving of a Model A. My current and last one that I will have is a 1931 Tudor that I have had since 1970. I put a 6 volt alternator on it around 2005. Good luck with your car.

[@WrightBrosRC]

Very enjoyable! I have a '29 Sport Coupe. I like that you have a very balanced approach to owning and operating a piece of history. I find that when I drive my Model A, I use the same skill set in many ways as when riding a motor bike. Having the right of way does not preserve one's personal safety. In most every instance, an accident with an antique vehicle becomes more serious, even with safety upgrades. Barring the actions of other drivers (usually the impatient ones) Model A Fords in proper maintenance are a pleasure to drive.

[@AstraWerke]

I like to think of it this way: You have the reaction time of a truck and the safety of a motorcycle. And as much as I hate to jinx it, I've gotten around mighty fine, thus far :)

[@rapidrrobert4333]

I had one in high school (1964-67). I learned a ton about cars from her.

[@AstraWerke]

It is indeed almost shocking how SIMPLE this thing is - and how little it takes to give you a reliable, well-running car! You'd be hard pressed to find a car that's better at teaching you how a car works than the Model A.

[@DWS1435]

You can put an overdrive transmission in your car. Makes a huge difference. You can convert to hydraulic brakes and use later Ford wheels. with larger tires. You can buy convex side mirrors that look like the ones you have on your car. I had a 1930 Model A super deluxe four door six window sedan. Had overdrive and I put in the devices to float the brakes. Enjoyed your video. Good luck with your vehicle.

[@AstraWerke]

Sure, all things that could be done. Maybe even another engine while one's at it. But part of the fun is - in my opinion - to keep the vast majority of it original. Replacing one bolt to reduce the stopping distance by a third is a no-brainer. But tearing the entire brake system apart despite the manual brakes being able to easily lock the wheels or installing a whole additional transmission instead of letting off the gas pedal and taking a little more time is a little off the grid if you ask me. People drove the cars without an overdrive when they were new, so it can't be that hard today. Best Wishes and a merry christmas Adrian

[@fox123456789ish]

@@AstraWerke I agree with all you say. I will mention though, that many individuals installed overdrives in period, and many people become very wealthy making them. Might be a good option, even to help split your shifts since the difference between 2nd and 3rd is quite large. Not necessary though. Regarding your transmission taking a long time to slow down before changing into first. You can try using a heavier gear oil. The Model A’s that I know of don’t have this problem. One used to, and he switched to a slightly heavier oil which completely solved it, and quietened the gears too.

[@AstraWerke]

@@fox123456789ish An overdrive is probably as much a question of individual taste as manual vs automatic transmission. Jip, an overdrive would be better, but I like ye olde crashbox. Plus it's one less lever in the crowded cabin and about 3k more on my bank accout ;P I was able to get rid of the 1st gear grind by backing off the clutch adjuster a half turn. Seems like it was not fully disengaged with the pedal pressed. All the best and a merry christmas! Adrian

[@cafefreddies]

Mooi gezegd zo denk ik er ook over. Het is niet alleen een auto. Maar het is een hobby. Waar je je mee kunt verplaatsen. ik vind het fantastisch als ik de mijn start. 94 jaar. En lekker rijden. Geen haast. En iedereen steekt zijn duim op. Geweldig !!!!

[@Nord3202]

Very nice video & car, my late brother was a Model A lover. I am thinking of getting another one to remember the good times when we both drove a $75 Model A coupe around the dirt roads before we had drivers licenses. Thanks so much.

[@AstraWerke]

Well, you surely won't get one for that kind of money today, but if you learned to drive on one, I see no reason against acquiring one now. Best of luck to you!

[@Nord3202]

@@AstraWerkeIt was 1968 lol. A good one was $3000. For $75 it was missing everything, hood, grill shell, bumpers, rumble seat & fenders. It was used on a farm to power some type of equipment. Keep up the good videos you have a great little car. Thanks

[@JohnCox-oz5km]

You picked the perfect car. All the parts you could ever want, comfortable for the time, relative low cost, easy to repair, unlimited technical information, would wide interest groups, 13 L/100km or better. A great car to own. 31 45B

[@jimervin387]

Some great points you made. I own a very similar Model A Coupe. A I'll let you know a few things I did to mine to counteract some of the problems you mentioned. First, (and most expensive), I installed 1935 Ford 16" wire wheels for more braking surface, more riding comfort and really good looking with the wide whitewall tires. Although those wheels and tires might be impossible to find in Germany. Then I installed a 6 volt alternator so there's no more fiddling with resetting the charging rate of the generator. I took off those tubular shock links which tend to get lost on rough roads and replaced them with "dogbone" style links with rubber bushings. And I added a specially made tray under the rear main bearing to catch the oil drips. I could tell you more if you wish to communicate. I'm in B.C., Canada.

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks for all the intel. Unfortunately, you're right about the wheels. There's already a sort of black market around Model A rims - and for a '36, you'd probably be unable to find anything. Additionally, I think it wouldn't be legal to swap the wheels because you'd be unable to find a manufacturer's approval for that (yep, that's Germany in a nutshell xD). I've had my generator rewound since the coils were just about done for - so I'll probably drive that thing until it burns out. Adjusting the brush has kind of become 2nd nature like switching the fuel valve on for starting. I put a center punch mark on the housing to show me where to put the brush for day and night driving so it's a quick adjustment. I had the shock links apart, too. The bronze bushings were worn through, so I machined a couple of new ones and added zerk fittings onto the top end to be able to grease that, too. Yes, the rubber style is more convenient, but now I'm curious to how long my "mod" will last. The tray is on my To-Do-List as well. I don't like having to undo the flywheel cover bolts to install the aftermarket one, though, so I might build one on my own. Ever since I switched from SAE30 to 20W50, my oil leak pretty much disappeared, though! I'm always grateful for any advice - you can't know enough about a car like this! Thank you and all the Best Adrian

[@brunosergioporto8881]

Was für ein nettes Video! Ich gratuliere und danke dir für diese 40 Minuten lauten Genusses mit der schönen Geschichte über das liebe Model-A! Auch dein britischer Aksent ist just lovely! H. Grüße aus Santa Catarina, Südbrasilien...

[@BillB23]

Muito obrigado dos EUA.

[@Rustinox]

Nice car and really interesting story. Thanhs for sharing.

[@MatthewBerginGarage]

Thanks for the vid. An honest look at daily driving a 90 year old car. 👍😊 I have a 1953 Ford Customline I am working on now but I also hope to acquire a Model A as a driver. For your braking, you might want to upgrade to juice (hydraulic) brakes. It is a common upgrade and makes a major improvement in stopping power. A few small unnoticeable changes can make good safety improvements and lower the level of stress thereby increasing the enjoyment of driving our old beasties. Old vehicles shouldn't be static items in a musty old museum. They need to be out and about as living demonstrations of history. You can't hear how cool the sound of the Model A engine or my Flathead V8 is in a museum.

[@AstraWerke]

Hi Matthew - thanks for your comment! It's true - too many cars are just sitting around as static displays. They should be used for their intended purpose. As for a hydraulic brake conversion, I will probably not do that. On the one hand, I see it as part of the challenge to the vast majority of the car stock (exceptions made with indicators, rubber engine mounts, air filter, and the lot) - and on the other hand, you really can't improve the stopping power of a non ABS car beyond locking the tyres. Which I am capable of doing with the car in just the way it is right now (take a look/listen at my braking tests). Sure, you need some force, but imho, these brakes are adequate for the lightweight, slim-tyred car this is.

[@MatthewBerginGarage]

@@AstraWerke I was pointing out that it was a popular upgrade but having never driven a model A I actually have no idea how well the stock mechanical brakes work. They were working very well in your video and you did a great job balancing them. 16 meters from 50 Kph is not too shabby for 3 1/2 " tires.👍😊

[@AstraWerke]

@@MatthewBerginGarage Thanks! Took me the better part of the day to get them just right - let's hope they'll stay that way for a while! :D

[@mrmichael555]

Outstanding video! Thank you for making it. I really am starting to want one of these for my next project.

[@daveclark1221]

A couple of hints for shifting into 1st gear at a stop sign. 1.) When stopped completely and with the clutch all the way in, shift into Reverse gear temporarily then drop it down into 1st gear. It normally lines every gear up and it just allows the shifter to just drop right in with no gears clashing. 2.) Some people also add an oil slicking and thickening additive to the 600W gear oil. In the USA there is STP Oil treatment and Lucas Oil additives. This helps to slow down the gears in the transmission even more. I really enjoyed viewing your video and love it when the younger generations fall in love with the old cars.

[@AstraWerke]

Shifting into reverse from a standstill sounds even nastier than 1st, but I will try that thickening additive next time I have to top the fluid level off. Thanks for the suggestions - and your kind words, too!

[@daveclark1221]

@@AstraWerke Maybe time to check your clutch adjustment to make sure it is fully disenganged when you push it down completely. Good luck with your touring. Enjoy your car!!!

[@AstraWerke]

@@daveclark1221 Good hint - I'll check that!

[@AstraWerke]

@@daveclark1221 Backing off the clutch adjustment did the trick - thanks! :D

[@tonycavez]

my 29 A doesn't leak when i rebuilt the engine i had the block machined for modern seals many other modifications such as stainless steel valves , electronic ignition , 12v system halogen head lamps , turn signals , dual tail lights , modern carb with electric choke my car starts any time any temperature no adjusting trimming or idle , next on the list lowering a bit , air shocks all around maybe 16inch wheels and tires , rubber mounts , volts and temp gauge , oil filter kit

[@ProjectFairmont]

That was very interesting! It is considered by many to be the greatest car ever. Clearly improvements could be made, but in terms of choice of body types including a pick up, it was everything that was essential and no more. And it looked good and was dependable. The closest vehicle to being universal and capable is the VW sedan/bus/kugelwagen/Karman Ghia.

[@davis7099]

Really enjoyed this. Thanks for the detailed history and talk.

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks!

[@gregadams51]

Thanks for sharing your model A with us . A very pretty car , I love the color .

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks alot! Blue, green and red are my favorites among the Model A colors

[@charleshueckstaedt5064]

Hello from the USA ..youve done a great report ... thanks

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks!

[@revelairfanman6171]

Wow, what a great video!

[@jamiejim2505]

This is the most informative and useful video i ever found in KZbin about the Model A, i currently own a 1980 Shay Model A which is a clone of the original and was sold through Ford dealership with the Ford Pinto 2.3 engine, 4 speed manual shift front disc brake and operated by hydraulic system, however the sound and feel of the original still got me interested in to own one, I'm pretty sure will looking for all related website to find one after watching your video, which part of Germany do you live? I might be going there to travel after the damn pandemic is over, thanks and keep up the good work.

[@DavidSanftenberg]

There are manifold heaters available for the A. If you're taking off the exhaust manifold anyways, might be worth looking into for the winter months.

[@AstraWerke]

Yip and they seem rather effective. I don't intend to fit one onto mine though, for two main reasons: On the one hand, I don't want to cut a hole into the firewall and on the other, our city is quite generous with salt, so I won't drive it too much in winter anyways, and when I do, I'll just put on a warm coat and that should do the trick. All the Best Adrian

[@michaelcherry8952]

@@AstraWerke Actually, there is a problem with a manifold heater. Any leak in the exhaust is channeled right into the passenger compartment. Not a great thing when you're driving in cold weather with all of the windows rolled up! Believe it or not, there were hot water heaters available as accessories in 1930. Tropic-Aire is one brand I know of. It's the same method as modern heaters. A small heater core is spliced into the coolant circuit and a fan blows air across the heater core and into the passenger compartment. It's pretty basic (no defrosters for the windshield) but it does keep you warm without the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning. That being said, it's probably best to keep the winter driving to a minimum. I don't know how those narrow tires would do on slippery roads. Great video, by the way. I love all the details. Enjoy your Model A!

[@AstraWerke]

@@michaelcherry8952 Indeed. I found out first-hand that the Model A's manifold design really isn't the best when it comes to staying straight - and sealed, for that matter. That being said, there are so many holes in the firewall, that even without a heater, the engine warmth does keep you from freezing, even at temperatures below zero. They say that narrow tyres will do better in fresh snow and mud since the weight of the car is on a narrower surface, which increases the downforce, but I haven't tried that yet. Fact is, that especially with the coupe, there is hardly any weight on the rear axle and I did get stuck on a grass slope once already, so I wouldn't want to jinx it on snow. There's a video called "1930 Ford Model A donuts" showing the "grip" you get on snow... Quite entertaining xD

[@pouglwaw5932]

@@AstraWerke My '30 Model A bravely went forth after a heavy snowstorm. Nobody had dared drive through the deep snow but were waiting for the snowplow to come through. I was amazed how neatly and easily those narrow tires cut through the drifts and the high clearance underneath helped, too. There was a good reason for designing the old cars the way they did. It would even go through deep mud in places a 4-wheel drive rig "would fear to tread" so long as you remembered "Don't Stop !"

[@filipponseele7346]

great video! just one little pointer from a model t ford owner (1915) you do have brakes in neutral. the brakes work via a drum in the transmission that directly connects to the driveshaft so even in neutral you can operate the brake.

[@AstraWerke]

Oh, I didn't know that - thanks for telling me!

[@g.a.c.4139]

Excellent choice going with the black wall tires. It looks so much more authentic than the wide white wall tires.

[@AstraWerke]

Imho, it would have been too much. The car already has three colors - blue body, black fenders and grey wheels. Adding black AND white to that combo would have made it look like a christmas tree, not a car.

[@stephenbryson5618]

Love your KZbin channel so much that I’m look for a 1930 Ford model t couple, thanks

[@paulscountrygarage9180]

What a great video. Thank you. I have an Australian assembled Model T tourer but am looking for an A. Keep you the great work and Merry Christmas and stay safe.

[@chevahaulic]

Great video and story . You nailed it with these cars . But they are joy to drive as you have found .

[@28gwdavies]

I could listen to this engine on tick-over (idling) all day! If you uploaded a 5-minute audio clip I would loop it and play it all day instead of the radio. I could play it in my car (Mondeo Ghia x) through speakers under the bonnet, that would turn a few heads at the traffic lights! Thank you for the great video. Glyn in England.

[@AstraWerke]

Let me tell you, I burnt at least 5 litres of petrol while adjusting the idle setting. Just to "make sure" it is "running properly", with the ear taped to the exhaust ;P

[@28gwdavies]

@@AstraWerke hahahaha

[@thomasparker5208]

I drive a 55 Chevy in Houston, TX. Slightly more advanced technology than what you have here, but stock drum breaks all around, manual steering. I agree 100% with what you say about awareness when driving an old car. You can't drive and older car with a phone in your face, as many, many, drivers here do.

[@AstraWerke]

Modern car or not - texting and driving is one of the most dangerous habits these days. A car drove straight into a house in our neighborhood - no tire marks, no signs of overspeeding, just straight into the living room. Guess who was on the phone.

[@melissaroscher1080]

Congratulations on the A. Mom drove grandpa's A sedan (1935) so I appreciate any A content. The new crossovers are reincarnation of the A and the T.

[@bradyoung7115]

Great work.!

[@geraldorford]

I loved the fact no car drove by during this review.

[@billz482]

I really enjoy your channel. I also have a ‘30 Deluxe Rumble Seat Coupe, and a ‘26 Roadster, both restored to original condition. I’ll have to remind myself not to complain about shipping costs when I order parts here in Connecticut! Bill Z

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks alot! Well, shipping costs are still bearable when relying on a middle man. What can be a downside is the "not knowing what you get"-factor. One day it might me paper oil pan gasket, the other day it may be made from cork. One day the lightbulb has 50CP, the next day it has 75. Oh well... The price to pay to drive the coolest car around xD

[@sheep1ewe]

Congrats! I hawe no doubths on that You are exactly the right man to take car of her! Those old cars realy does not look good at all with lowered roof and other atrocities people tend to commit with them, i feel happy knowing that it landed in the garage of someone like You who actualy cares and know how to take good care of old cars!

[@AstraWerke]

There's nothing to speak against a small modification (i.E. sealed Ball Bearings in a water pump) to improve upon the original design. But fitting a 600 hp Monster into the front and cutting the roof apart just isn't my thing. Nothing beats chugging along at 60kph with the windows down and the calm roar of a 40hp engine :D

[@sheep1ewe]

@@AstraWerkeAwsome, Yes, it's after all a functional car and not just another dustcollector that newer enters the road.

[@NYC1927]

Great car and I really enjoyed your story. And, LOLLOL re "okay, okay, okay" @18:44

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks xDD

[@peadarmacewen4710]

What a charming video - thanks.

[@pr191148]

Guten Morgen Adrian, Herrlich deine Geschichte über dein Auto und deine Arbeit daran. Alles sehr authentisch und nachvollziehbar. Die 41 Minuten haben Spaß gemacht :))

[@AstraWerke]

Dankeschön! Ich hatte so meine Zweifel, wie so ein langes Video bei den Leuten ankommt, aber es scheint ja nochmal gut gegangen zu sein :D

[@rareblues78daddy]

17:36 Oh... you _madman!_ YES! Hot Model A _action!_

[@justindale4909]

Beautiful colours, another great video, thanks for posting 🤙

[@btrdangerdan2010]

You truly own a gem 💎

[@paulzumpf3612]

There is no seal on the rear of the crankshaft. The transmission countershafts are also not sealed so without extensive modification the is no way to keep it leak free. Making sure the crankcase vent is clean and free flowing will help with engine oil leaks.

[@AstraWerke]

I already managed to reduce the leak down to a few drops after shutting the engine off by using 20W50 instead of SAE30 - with that stuff, it was just constantly dripping oil whenever reducing engine speed down to idle.

[@paulzumpf3612]

@@AstraWerke it's a beautiful car. I'm glad you are driving it so it can be shared with others. One other thing that comes to mind is greasing the u-joint housing. The u-joint is between the back of the transmission and driveshaft tube. Use a very runny grease such as John Deere cornhead grease in there.

[@henrikthorsen5664]

Very nice video, thanks. As to your comment about lack of a Ford Model A generator regulator, and the need to adjust the third brush. Be advised that a little hack is possible. It is possible to replace the original cut-out switch above the generator with an identical looking (solid state) device that actually performs the regulation without all the hassle. Best wishes from a 1931 Ford Model A owner in Denmark.

[@AstraWerke]

That sounds very tempting! I'll have a look into the matter and see if I can get my hands on such a thing!

[@henrikthorsen5664]

@@AstraWerke here is a link to get started. I'm certain you can get it in Germany from a dealer there. www.macsautoparts.com/ford_model_a/model-a-ford-generator-cut-out-electronic-voltage-regulator-version-ford-script-6-volt-positive-ground-only.html Otherwise you can buy them in Denmark.

[@AstraWerke]

@@henrikthorsen5664 Beautiful, thank you! My favorite parts dealer is out of stock at the moment but he should have some new ones by the beginning of next year - so I'll wait another 2 weeks, no problem :D

[@christopherbradley4829]

The model also has an Parking besides the transmission brake

[@richardstone7569]

Great video with really down to earth comments about owning and driving a Model A. More videos, I hope, in the future. I'm in America. If you ever need help sourcing parts, feel free to contact me.

[@northindian344]

Excellent exhaust sound Very nice video 🤠😃

[@thomasjordan5578]

For braking Time things like it’s a loaded truck. Also undercarriage and such will be configured about the same as a truck rather than a contemporary car.

[@AstraWerke]

And for safety, think motorcycle ;P

[@thomasjordan5578]

@@AstraWerke Not quite that bad 🤣

[@donaldlampert331]

That was thorough and very good! Thanks

[@NicosProjects]

Wooooow ein Traumauto! Viele Grüße Nico von Nico's Projects

[@Michael_Scott_Howard]

Nice 1930 coupe.. I enjoy my late 1931 Tudor.

[@Engineerd3d]

That is a beautiful car. Now you have me looking for a model a for myself. I rather like these machines, also being somewhat of a ford kind of guy this ticks all the right boxes.

[@AstraWerke]

It's a great car to do things by yourself. It's all so bang-in-the-face simplistic and I have yet to come across a piece that couldn't be dismantled with a flathead and a crescent wrench xD

[@darrylmcleman6456]

Kits are available to convert to hydraulic brakes.Also you can get overdrive kit (Mitchell I think ) GREAT CAR!!! CHEERS from Canada!

[@AstraWerke]

I know, but getting it done with the 3 speed and factory mechanical brakes is part of the game, in my opinion. Might as well swap for a more advanced engine, while you're at it, right? ;)

[@timnewman1172]

@@AstraWerke the Mitchell overdrive is better suited for places in the States with long straight stretches of open highways and longer distances to travel. In regular traffic in suburban areas, cruising at 45mph is adequate...

[@timnewman1172]

Mechanical brakes properly adjusted will stop the Model A just as easily without spending a bunch of $$$ unecessarily!

[@billmezz]

My car is a 1928 Model A Sport Coup. As a Model A owner for 34 years. I agree with you a very reliable, and fun to drive car. I have the opportunity to Visit Frankfurt Germany to visit my cousin evert 2 years. Where do you live? I would love to visit you, and can even bring parts. I have also found a Model A friend in Denmark. Who I intend to visit next time I'm in Europe..

[@AstraWerke]

Hi, I live in Wuppertal, so it's still quite a while away from Frankfurt. We'll see how the Pandemia develops until then...

[@robinimpey101]

Great video, thank you!

[@abandonedwayamoon8749]

Wonderful !

[@motorTranz]

Brilliant video. Thank you.

[@robertstrnadl8523]

Like your video very much. I bought a 1929 or is it 1928 🤔Phaeton in 2018 in Brasil. The brakes are hydraulic and it had been changed to a 12 V circuit before. To have the car more like I wanted it, I had a lot of work done by a garage - stripped down to the chassis and redone what was necessary - and am now in the process to finish the rest of the work myself. I konw the purists like their cars as thy were in 1930's, but I am glad I have the hydraulic brakes and the 12V generator. Less work and more safety - I believe.

[@DrTheRich]

If it's 28 it likely has a red steering wheel, if it's 29 it likely has a black one. (Unless they are not original)

[@AstraWerke]

Well, the 6V system hasn't given me any trouble so far, and even the best set of brakes can't do any more than lock up the wheels (which the mechanicals are capable of, too) - but that's the cool thing about the Model A: There are so many of them that everybody can modify his car to whatever he desires :)

[@Felizei]

Vielen Dank auch, jetzt habe ich Lust einen Ford Model A zu kaufen... Tolles Video zu einem schönen Auto 🙂 Viele Grüße und gute Fahrt von der Felizei!

[@AstraWerke]

Dankeschön :) So ein Wagen ist viel Arbeit, aber ich würd's jederzeit wieder tun

[@talkingwithcars]

Love the story !!

[@TrPrecisionMachining]

very good video..thanks for your time

[@AstraWerke]

And thank you for yours :D

[@robdoe2420]

Very nice. I learned something. (Generator readjustment)

[@southerncrosssilver921]

Great video!

[@funeralhall2573]

It’s an excellent car!!

[@jaykay67design]

Sehr interessantes Video zum 30er Model A.

[@Raj-nh3fc]

It has a nice engine sound like the three cylinder diesel tractor like MF 135.

[@myMotoring]

With wheels that large & ground clearance that high, this is technically an SUV in modern term.

[@AstraWerke]

Utility? Yes. Sport? No. xD But guess what, it keeps the dirt inside the mudguards when going through a puddle - instead of splashing it all over the body like a low-section-tyred Cayenne would.

[@myMotoring]

@@AstraWerke true... this were made then the road condition is a bit better than it was during Model T time, but still mostly unpaved.

[@Christoph2605]

schönes Video - schönes Auto - Alles richtig gemacht. Grüße vom 29Tudor aus Frankfurt (bisher 100.000 km überall in Europa)

[@Zigge]

Hi. Great video. I own a 29' Tudor so I would like to ask what German parts dealers you have in Germany? (I live in Denmark)

[@AstraWerke]

I've bought all my stuff from "Classic Cars Frohburg". They have all items you can think of that could need replacement, except for the large things like frames or body panels. And if they don't have a certain item in stock, just ask the seller and it'll be available within a week or two. In the Netherlands, there is a supplier called "Adams Classic" - they have a huge amount of stuff in stock, too. I've never bought anything from them yet, so I can't recommend for or against them, though.

[@miguelangelsimonfernandez5498]

Rumble seats in spanish are called "ahí te pudras" which literally means "there you rot"

[@AstraWerke]

Great one xD

[@robertwaring6784]

Where are you in Germany? I happen to be in Marburg this week. I have a 29 Roadster pickup

[@AstraWerke]

Well, I live in Wuppertal (Google says about 2.5hrs from Marburg), but this week is pretty tightly packed for me - and with my car out of business, I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to offer much

[@robertwaring6784]

@@AstraWerke Well darn, I knew it was a long shot but was hoping to buy you a coffee and share Model A stories. We are considering a trip over to Koln but that is still a ways to go.

[@AstraWerke]

@@robertwaring6784 Maybe long enough for my car to be back on the road again :)

[@robertwaring6784]

@@AstraWerke Well, probably not. It would be fun but I'll only be in Germany for about a week. I just had my engine rebuilt this year and am still in the break in process.

[@lostmc8793]

Liebe Astra Werke, für was sind die grünen Knöpfe auf deiner Underwood. Ich meine die obersten 7 grünen Tasten. Was ist deren Zweck? Liebe Grüße

[@AstraWerke]

Die Dinger heißen Tabulatoren. Wenn du eine Tabelle anfertigst, oder eine Auflistung mit Zahlen, bei denen das Komma immer an gleicher Stelle sein soll, setzt du mit der ganz rechten Taste einen Tab an der Kommastelle. Durch drücken der jeweiligen Tasten springt die Walze nun automatisch an den jeweils richtigen Punkt für die 10er, 100er, 1000er, ...-Stelle.

[@Michael_Scott_Howard]

These cars are grand old ladies, treat them and drive them as such.. esp. shifting... Yes, Fords of that time sold with oil leaks included without extra charge... I lot more of them still on the roads than any Daimler of the same time and they were only $800-$1600 at the time..

[@lostmc8793]

Guten Tag! Ich komme aus Deutschland und möchte für meinen Sohn eine alte mechanische Schreibmaschine erwerben, die noch funktionsfähig ist. Können Sie mir einen Tipp geben, wo man am besten eine solche kauft? Auf was muss ich beim Kauf achten? An wen können wir uns wenden, falls mal ein Teil kaputt geht, da ich selber nicht viel über diese Teile weiß. Gehen die alten Schreibmaschinen schnell kaputt oder kann man mein Sohn sehr gut auf diesen für die Schule Dokumente anfertigen? Eine letzte Frage noch: Welche Marke und welches Modell würden Sie aus ihrer eigenen Erfahrung empfehlen? Ich bin wirklich im Neuland und ich kenne mich nicht aus mit den Modellen und welche gut oder schlecht sind. Vielen Dank und schöne Festtage, ein treuer Zuschauer aus München.

[@AstraWerke]

Grüß dich, in Sachen Schreibmaschinen würde ich einfach mal den örtlichen Antiquitätenladen aufsuchen, da gehört das eigentlich zum Standard-Repertoire. Gut, mit Covid ist das zurzeit schwierig, stimmt. Eine gute Alternative wäre Ebay Kleinanzeigen. Meine Empfehlung: Hinfahren, ausprobieren, selbst mitnehmen. Denn adäquat verpackt kriegt die Dinger kaum einer. So eine Schreibmaschine geht eigentlich nicht kaputt. Da muss sie schon Jahrzehnte im feuchten Keller gestanden haben oder auf den Boden geworfen werden. Beim Kauf sollte man ausprobieren, ob alles tut (Schreiben, Schlitten bewegen, Anschläge verstellen, Zeilenwechsel, Klingel etc) - und dann geht da auch nichts dran kaputt. Meine persönliche Lieblingsmaschine ist die Underwood - im Prinzip hat sich an der Konstruktion von 1900 bis 1940 nicht viel geändert. Und auch sonst kann man mit den namhaften Herstellern Triumph, Adler, Continental, Mercedes etc nichts falsch machen. Ich wüsste ehrlich keine Büromaschine aus der Vorkriegszeit, die qualitativ schlecht gewesen wäre. (Wenn die Maschine schwarz lackiert ist, ist das ein gutes Zeichen für Vorkrieg) Die Farbbänder sind in der Regel trocken, kriegt man aber noch problemlos im Netz. Ich würde dir mein Video zur Continental Standard empfehlen, da zeige ich so ziemlich alle Funktionen, die eine Schreibmaschine üblicherweise hat und wie sie auch bei anderen Schreibmaschinen realisiert wurde. Wenn noch Fragen sind, immer gern. Liebe Grüße, viel Erfolg bei der Suche, frohes Fest und guten Rutsch Adrian

[@lostmc8793]

Liebe Astra-Werke, du preist oft die Firma Underwood an. Welches Modell bevorzugst du und bestehen da große Unterschiede? Es gibt die Modelle mit leicht veränderten Tastaturen als deine eigene. Kannst du mir erzählen, wo die Unterschiede zwischen den Modellen sind? Liebe Grüße

[@AstraWerke]

Am Grundkonzept hat Underwood nicht besonders viel verändert. Über die Jahre gab es leichte Variationen in der Schlittenlänge, Tastenanzahl, veränderte Formen der Handhebel (Ergonomie war schon damals ein Thema) und es mag kleine Änderungen an Hebellängen o.ä. gegeben haben, um die Tippkraft zu verringern. Auch der automatische Richtungswechsel des Farbbandvorschubs war nicht von Anfang an mit dabei. Welche Änderung wann genau kam... Da bin auch ich überfragt. Aber prinzipiell macht man eigentlich mit keiner Underwood was falsch - über die Jahre wurden die Dinger eigentlich nur ausgereifter.

[@Michael_Scott_Howard]

Yes, your rpm has to be low to shift... I see you have shocks, which is rare.. I added them to my Model A. I also own a 2020 F150 Supercrew truck which is only 2.7l but makes 335HP. It was assembled at Dearborn, Michigan Truck plant, the old Ford Rouge complex where mine and you engines were made. As funny as it sounds my wife as a 2020 Ford Ecosport and the engine was made their too, the last engines made by Ford at Dearborn, but the car was finally assembled in India. What is the code on your frame on the drivers side. That code will tell you the final assembly factory location. My was made in NK (Norfolk, Virginia). frame by where you legs are.

[@AstraWerke]

Thanks for telling me, I'll see if I can find that code when I have the floor boards out the next time.

[@fergusonmfgijsm9714]

Can u make a video of how to drive the model a ?

[@AstraWerke]

Yes, I've thought about it - probably somewhen this summer. In the meantime, there is a video online from a guy named Jason Button, which covers just about everything relevant there is to driving one of these.

[@fergusonmfgijsm9714]

Okay

[@BillB23]

@@AstraWerke Paul Shinn YT channel also has a great collection of how to on the A.