Curtis73 (Forum Supporter) said:
Ford really had the market cornered with buckboards (Model T/A). Many of the other manufacturers were playing catch up and just cranking out immitation versions of Ford's stuff. It really wasn't until the late 30s that everyone was kind of on a level playing field and innovations really started happening that made cars actually something you would want to drive.
Methinks he's going to have to either mod the heck out of a pre-32, or maybe start looking into 1939-42
I think he's dropped the idea of a 20's - 30's era car and fallen in love with a woodie wagon to pull his restored wooden boats around. Using that to take the trip around the country. Then using it for his boat hobby/business
That big 320 cu in Buick making 160 hp and a lot of torque seems like it would make them happy. If not that Pontiac with the special engine. Might do the trick.
Ian F (Forum Supporter) said:
In reply to frenchyd :
Yes... I read all of that the first time you posted it. I'm not sure how that applies to my comment. I have no opinion for against his vehicle choice and I can absolutely understand how his past experience with vintage wooden boats would make the idea of a straight 8 powered car enticing. It's his adventure and he can make it what he wants it to be. My advice is more geared towards making that adventure as successful and enjoyable with as few unexpected surprises as possible.
Even if he buys the car now and spends the winter fiddling with it, the chances are high the car has not seen use like what he plans in a very long time. Most old cars haven't. Running it multiple days in a row will bring out quirks and issues not readily apparent from an initial inspection.
Here in Minnesota with snow, Ice, and road salt over everything. It's not likely he'll get too much driving done. However If he can take a pile of sticks, wood, and worn out stuff and turn it into an award winning prize. Since some of those boats stayed on this lake and have been around for 30-40 years. ( and they are still friends)
So this guy is a mechanical magician and he wants a woody wagon. Sounds like he should get a woody wagon. Decisions to run 75 year old cars aren't rational, you need to follow your heart.
Keith Tanner said:
So this guy is a mechanical magician and he wants a woody wagon. Sounds like he should get a woody wagon. Decisions to run 75 year old cars aren't rational, you need to follow your heart.
Luckily he's a pilot and can fly all over the country looking at them. Choosing what he wants.
daeman said:
Nothing to add regarding the selection of a car, which at this point seems well narrowed down to a 40s woodie....
But, can I suggest they consider adding a teardrop style camper trailer to the equation? A small, lightweight travel trailer with provisions for sleeping or just a very fancy roadside or campground picnic. A bit of additional storage and flexibility for their trip with not to much of a burden. Plus, being a man who like working with wood, building his own custom teardrop from scratch may be something right up his alley.
Something along these lines
I like those tear drop trailers. They sure would look good behind a woodie.
