Preparations start for Desert Rattler
Rod has started work on the vehicle he will be using for the forthcoming Desert Rattler Run – a 1929 Ford Model A that was previously used as a snowmobile.
“Unfortunately because the ’29 had been a snow runner there was rust galore and there were just so many parts that were not as good as they needed to be for what I was intending so I decided to do a complete strip down and a rebuild,” explains Rod.
“Since the beginning of the rebuild, it has been quite tedious and in the end I decided to strip the ’29 down to a chassis and begin a total restoration but with some modifications.”
So that’s what Rod has done! Here’s how he’s got on so far…
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- This is the DR stripped down ready for a thorough going over.
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- It was broken chassis cross members and other cracks that need attention
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- The front spring carrier and engine carrier was in dire need of repair
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- With the chassis now welded it was time to begin the added cross member repairs
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- Time to do a complete rear end rebuild, new crown wheel and pinion, axles bearings, seals, the lot
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- The new rebuilt internal assembly
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- The new differential with a Mitchell underdrive fitted. That is a 30% underdrive to make the DR go slower to climb hills whilst maintaining engine revs.
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- Brand new rebuilt brakes complete with backing plates from Snyders Antique Auto Parts USA were fitted to all four wheels
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- This is the transmission oil I use. The Penrite products are top of the range and work brilliantly. I have used their products for the past 35 years in all my rally cars and driver cars
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- Time to do a rebuild on the clutch housing
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- The clutch and brake pedal shaft was worn and had to be replaced so too the bushes in the pedals
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- The rear end is complete and ready to be attached to the chassis
