1930 Ford Model A Pickup

Highlights

• Rust-free Californian example, reportedly in the same area for 75 years prior to 2021
• Stripped to the chassis and comprehensively rebuilt following importation to the UK
• All body panels professionally prepped and painted in Arabian Sand
• Electrical system converted to 12 volts for improved practicality

The Appeal

Ford's Model A succeeded the legendary Model T in 1927 and represented a quantum leap in refinement, power and style. The pickup variant, with its honest, utilitarian character, has become one of the most cherished pre-war American vehicles among collectors and enthusiasts alike - a working machine with undeniable charm.

This particular example boasts a wonderful provenance, having reportedly served as a local handyman's work truck in the same corner of California for some 75 years before being purchased by the current owner in July 2021. Crucially, that long Californian life reportedly left it completely rust-free: a rare quality in any vehicle approaching its centenary. Upon arrival in the UK in late 2021, it was stripped down to the bare chassis and comprehensively rebuilt. The body panels were professionally prepped and finished in Arabian Sand, new upholstery and trim were fitted throughout, and the electrical system was converted to 12 volts. The underbody has been treated with Lanoguard for long-term preservation.

Mechanically, the 3.3-litre flathead four-cylinder engine has been retained and left unpainted to preserve its period character, with the vendor reporting that it runs beautifully. Since its rebuild, the truck has been used sparingly for shows and the occasional outing, and we're told it presents in fine order throughout. For anyone seeking a charismatic, usable pre-war pickup with solid Californian bones and a thorough British rebuild, this Ford Model A warrants serious consideration.

History and Paperwork

• First registered in the UK in 2021 following importation from California
• Reportedly served as a local handyman's work truck in the same area of California for 75 years prior to purchase
• Shipped to the UK, arriving in December 2021
• Stripped to the chassis and rebuilt from the ground up following arrival
• No service history paper trail
• Odometer is inoperative
• MOT and road tax exempt
• Has been used for a few shows and occasional outings since the rebuild

The Condition

• Was in primer upon purchase, reported to be immensely solid
• All body panels professionally prepped and painted in Arabian Sand by a local paint specialist
• New upholstery, fasteners and trim parts fitted throughout
• Converted to 12v electrical system with a new battery and 12v horn
• All underbody treated with Lanoguard
• The vendor describes the bodywork as being in very good order with no marks or scrapes, and the underside as presenting equally well
• The vendor describes the interior as being in very good order

The Mechanics

• 3.3-litre flathead four-cylinder engine
• Three-speed manual transmission
• Engine left unpainted to retain a period appearance
• The vendor describes the engine as running beautifully and reports it is completely original apart from a 12v alternator
• The vendor states it drives nicely, especially for a 95-year-old vehicle

BEFORE YOU BUY

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