1915 ‘T’ Model Ford   entry number 15 Driver Gavin Pocock Navigator Karen Pocock

1915 FORD ‘T’ MODEL

Car of the Month From BVAC Newsletter ‘Vintage Views’

The car of the Month belongs to Warren and Maurine Pockock.  The remains of this car were found In the country town of Tara  in 1966. This restoration took seven years costing approximately $800.   Model; ‘T’ Ford Runabout

Club: Brisbane Vintage Auto Club (Inc)

Gavin had to chisel the original pistons from the block and had sleeves machined for the middle two. He poured his own middle main in white metal and hand scraped it to suit, all the others are still original. The radiator, aluminum bonnet, rear mudguard, doors and boot section have been made from many patterns and photos. Maurine, apart from putting up with Warren restoring his pride and joy, made the hood and upholstered the seats in the backyard.

The first rally the car went on was in 1975 for the Celebration of 50 years of Ford in Australia, in an unfinished state. 1976 saw the first rally in a completed state and it is still going strong today. Maybe not as bright and shiny as back then but just as reliable.

Today the car is rallied by Gavin and Karen Pockock who have recently returned from the Barossa Valley, SA after a T Ford Rally with 175 other cars (or shall we say cranks)

1915 ‘T’ Model Ford ### The 1915 Model T Ford: A Milestone in Automotive History
The 1915 Model T Ford holds a special place in automotive history as one of the quintessential vehicles of the early 20th century. Produced by the Ford Motor Company, this iconic car symbolizes the dawn of mass production and the democratization of automobile ownership in America.

**A Revolution in Production**
The Model T, often affectionately referred to as the “Tin Lizzie,” was first introduced in 1908, but by 1915, it had undergone several important updates that set it apart from its predecessors. The most revolutionary aspect of the Model T was Henry Ford’s implementation of assembly line production, which drastically reduced manufacturing costs and time. By 1915, Ford had perfected this system, enabling the company to produce thousands of cars each month. This innovation not only made cars more affordable but also ushered in an era of personal mobility for the average American.

**Design and Features**
The 1915 Model T featured several design enhancements that appealed to both practicality and aesthetic desires. Unlike earlier models, the 1915 version was available with a range of body styles, including runabouts, touring cars, and even a delivery truck variant. One notable update for this year was the introduction of electric headlights, replacing the earlier acetylene lamps, which improved visibility and safety.

The car continued to be powered by a simple yet effective 2.9-liter four-cylinder engine, which provided ample power while maintaining impressive fuel efficiency. The Model T’s lightweight design, reinforced by its use of vanadium steel, contributed to its durability and reliability—qualities that were incredibly important for the roads of that era.

**Cultural Impact**
The Model T Ford was not just a car; it was a symbol of freedom and opportunity. It played a crucial role in shaping American society, as it allowed families to travel further afield than ever before. The affordability of the Model T allowed many to escape the confines of city life, opening the door to road trips, vacations, and exploration of the great outdoors.

Additionally, the Model T had a profound impact on American culture and economy. It contributed to the growth of suburbs and the development of the American landscape, including gas stations, motels, and roadside attractions that we still recognize today.

**Legacy**
By the time production of the Model T ended in 1927, over 15 million units had been sold, making it one of the best-selling cars of all time. The legacy of the 1915 Model T still resonates today, as it laid the groundwork for the future of the automotive industry and established Ford as one of the leading manufacturers in the world.

**Conclusion**
The 1915 Model T Ford was not just a vehicle; it was a phenomenon that transformed transportation and American life. As we look back at this remarkable car, it’s important to appreciate the ingenuity and vision that went into its creation. Today, the Model T remains a beloved classic, a reminder of a time when cars became accessible to all and revolutionized the way we move.

*Photos by Pat Davis*

1924 ‘T’ Model Ford  Entry number 6 Driver George Schoenauer

Navigator Chris Schoenauer.

You could say my life started in the foundry. I do not care to think about what happened before that day but on 31st March 1924 I distinctly remember being extremely hot. When I cooled down I was the engine block of a Model T Ford.

Someone came along and hit me on the side with some sharp instrument and I became known as number C 481771.   My memory is a bit fuzzy around that time however I recall being placed in a chassis with some other parts and then started up and driven out into a yard with hundreds of my peers.   After a while I took stock of the situation and noted that I was not getting a body, but instead I was loaded in a crate and put on a boat bound for Australia. I eventually ended up in Adelaide at a local Ford distributor called Duncan Motors where under their guidance I was fitted with a runabout body. Boy I was proud.

1930 ‘A’ Model Ford Entrant number 20 Driver Bob Bragg Navigator Cecilia Bragg

The Ford Model A was available in a wide selection of body types,  Coupe Standard Coupe Deluxe,  Business Coupe, Sport Coupe, Standard Roadster Coupe,  Deluxe Roadster Coupe,Convertible Cabriolet, Convertible Sedan, – Standard Phaeton,  Deluxe Phaeton, Standard Tudor,  Deluxe Tudor, Town Car, Standard Fordor 2-window, Deluxe Fordor 2-window Standard Fordor 3-window, Deluxe Fordor 3-window – Victoria, Station Wagon, Taxicab, Truck, Commercial. Production ended on August 1931, with 4,320,446 Model A’s made in all styles

The 1930 Model A Ford: A Glorious Chapter in Automotive History

The 1930 Model A Ford holds a significant place in the landscape of American automotive history. Produced from 1927 to 1931, the Model A emerged as a successor to the iconic Model T, which had dominated the roads in the early years of the automobile industry. In many ways, the Model A represented a turning point in Ford’s production philosophy, bringing with it advancements that would set the standard for future vehicles.

#### The Birth of the Model A

By the late 1920s, consumer preferences were shifting, and the demand for better performance, comfort, and style was on the rise. In response, Henry Ford made the bold decision to discontinue the Model T after 19 million units had been sold. The introduction of the Model A in late 1927 was met with excitement, showcasing a sleeker design and modern features that appealed to a growing audience.

The Model A was more than just a vehicle; it was a symbol of progress. It came in a wide variety of body styles, including coupes, sedans, and convertibles, allowing it to cater to diverse tastes and needs. The vehicle was powered by a 3.3-liter, four-cylinder engine capable of producing 40 horsepower, which was a noticeable upgrade from its predecessor. With a top speed of around 65 miles per hour, the Model A was a significant advancement in automotive technology for its time.

#### Innovative Features

One of the key selling points of the 1930 Model A was its user-friendly design and improved technology. Unlike the Model T, which required hand cranking to start, the Model A featured an electric starter, making it much easier to operate. The car also showcased a more sophisticated braking system, with four-wheel hydraulic brakes—another leap forward in safety and reliability.

The dashboard was equipped with easy-to-read gauges, and the interior offered a more spacious and comfortable experience, appealing to families and commuters alike. The Model A’s design, with its flowing lines and attractive grille, set a new aesthetic standard in the automobile industry.

#### Production and Popularity

Production of the Model A peaked in the late 1920s, with over five million units manufactured by the time it was phased out in 1931. The 1930 variant of the Model A continued to emphasize the vehicle’s reputation for quality at an affordable price, which made it incredibly popular among the American public.

The Great Depression posed challenges for many automakers, but Ford’s Model A continued to thrive due to its accessibility and reliability. It became a practical choice for families looking to own a vehicle without breaking the bank.

#### The Legacy of the 1930 Model A Ford

Today, the 1930 Model A Ford is celebrated not just as a classic car, but as a testament to an important era in automotive history. Enthusiasts and collectors cherish these models for their timeless design and engineering, often restoring them to their original glory. The Model A’s legacy lives on through car shows, clubs, and rallies dedicated to preserving the fond memories associated with this iconic vehicle.

In conclusion, the 1930 Model A Ford represents a remarkable chapter in the evolution of automobiles. It was a vehicle that not only met the needs of its time but also laid the groundwork for the future of the automotive industry. Its blend of style, innovation, and accessibility made it an enduring favorite, securing its place in the hearts of car lovers around the world.