The President s Message - Winter by John W. Biggs, EFR 2

Transcription

1 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter A Chapter of The Model T Ford Club of America Early Ford Register affiliated with The Horseless Carriage Club of America The President s Message - Winter by John W. Biggs, EFR 2 What a year 2014 has been for me. For many years I had wanted to take one of my cars to the USA for some tours and the fulfilment of that wish exceeded my expectations. I realise it was not necessary to bring a car to participate in these events as such is the spirit of friendship in the EFR that a seat may always be found in a member's vehicle. However, I wanted to be able to return some of the hospitality by sharing my vehicle for a change. Almost as soon as I returned to England from the NLNB Tour, I was making preparations to fly back to Detroit with my good friend Mike Spencer for the Lansing to Dearborn in early September followed by the Old Car Festival. On arrival, Carl and Anne Pate collected us from the airport and next day a group of EFR members met in John Grace's garage to work on his Model A which has been off the road for a few years. John has been restoring the transmission and I am pleased to say that by 4pm, the car was reassembled and running. Everybody there had a job to do and by the time the engine spluttered into life, the car also boasted the cleanest brass in Michigan. After such a long layoff, it was not John's intention to run the car on the Lansing/Dearborn Tour but it did perform at the Old Car Festival at the weekend. That evening, we moved to the Adoba Hotel in Dearborn, just a mile from the Henry Ford and Greenfield Village and next day we drove into Detroit to visit the Piquette Plant. (continued on page 2) In This Issue Presidents Message page 1-5 Vice-President s Message page 6 Secretary-Treasurer s Message page 7 Newsletter Editor/Web Master Message... page 7 Ford's Early Presence by Emma Jackson page 8-10 First Time London-Brighton by Rick Lindner page Technical Corner - a 2 cylinder Commutator page Board of Directors Candidates..... page Tours, Swap Meets & Events page For Sale and Wanted Ads page This newsletter is published 4 times each year. Publication dates are February 15, May 15, August 15, and November 15.. We encourage member articles, For Sale and Wanted items Early Ford Registry Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 1

2 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 2 The President s Message - Winter (continued from page 1) The site of two Model Ks, a Model A and a 1909 Model T must have confused the commuters that morning, but we arrived unscathed and had a very interesting tour of the plant. If you have not visited yet, it must go on your 'to do' list. The recreation of Henry Ford's office is incredible and there is a fine display of cars from the era, including some belonging to members of the EFR. Also displayed are the components of the Model N donated by the late Richard Oswald to the EFR and which are in the process of being restored prior to reassembly. While on the subject of the Model N project, we are allocating additional resources in an attempt to accelerate the work. It is our wish to reassemble and run the car in 2015 at the plant where it was first assembled back in The Lansing/Dearborn Run was beautifully organised. A simple test of an event's standard is the need to ask questions of the organisers, but in this case, John and Dorothy Grace and their team had organised to such a high standard that the tour flowed seamlessly throughout. One hundred miles on each day flowed seamlessly under the tires and the routes were punctuated by interesting stops for food and attractions. I particularly enjoyed the breakfast on the first day and the visit to the gear cutting machine shop. On the second day, the visit to the airfield, with the opportunity for a glider flight, was a particular highlight. It also coincided with a puncture to a tire on my Model A, but fortunately a spare tube saved the day. The Old Car Festival at Greenfield Village was so much fun. It was two days of sheer delight in a beautiful setting with 900 cars participating. The EFR contingent spent two days meeting other car owners, walking around the site and driving on the roads of the village. It was great fun to give rides to members of the general public and the night time drive with a tonneau full of delighted children was a highlight for me. I wish we had a similar event in England where members of the public were invited to participate in such a fashion. (continued on page 3) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 2

3 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 3 The President s Message - Winter (continued from page 2) I am sure that many of the youngsters who came to Greenfield Village that day will take away memories of the fun and cameraderie of our hobby and will, perhaps, become custodians of our cars one day when we are gone. Our meeting at Hershey was a great success again this year although we had fewer cars on display. Carl and Anne Pate were our hosts and the meeting stretched over 2.1/2 hours of socialising. We were also able to welcome several new members to the EFR and wish them well with their cars and projects. The weather was kinder this year with three days clear of rain but Saturday dawned with light rain and deep overcast. Fortunately, the rain stopped at 10 o'clock and I was able to fulfil my ambition to display my car in the car show. There were not so many early cars in the show this year, but that part of the show field becomes a meeting place for enthusiasts from around the world and I was pleased to meet friends from Australia, Sweden and Holland who were there. Unfortunately, I had to leave the car show at midday as the transport to take my car to the docks had arrived earlier than expected and the driver needed to leave. So my Model A started its journey back to England and is on the high seas as I write this newsletter article. It has performed well throughout my visits with the only problem being the failure of timer springs on two occasions. I believe the timer cam may be worn leading to an abrasive effect on the leaf spring, so will change the cam during the winter. On the New London to New Brighton Run in August I was delighted to meet Alan and Mary Travis who were driving a little Jeanperrin car, which had startling performance for an early French single cylinder machine. They became almost honorary members of the EFR during that event, as they are very sociable and mixed easily with the Ford Group. I was able to help them when they came over to England for the London to Brighton Run in November by collecting their car at the docks and delivering it to London the day before the event The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 3 (continued on page 4)

4 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 4 The President s Message - Winter (continued from page 3) I was also delighted to meet up with Dave and Kimberley Shadduck and Rick Lindner who were here; Dave is a regular visitor, but this was Rick's first time at the event. Dave's 1903 Model A sounds like a sewing machine and runs beautifully. Rick was riding in a single-cylinder Cadillac belonging to a friend of Dave Shadduck so had a chance to compare the performance of that machine with his own Ford. I am pleased to report that both Dave and Rick made it to Brighton, where scenes of celebration were reported from the very wet participants. Rick enjoyed the Run so much he hopes to come back next year when I have offered him one of my cars for the event. He also hopes to bring his own car over in I have been reporting on the exploits of George King and his WW1 ambulance which was at Hershey in 2013 and has been touring France on behalf of the American Field Service to commemorate the start of WW1. I am pleased to report that George is now back staying with me in England before returning to his home in Connecticut later this week. His last event in France was on 11th November at Verdun. 11th of November is celebrated as Armistice Day in France and England as WW1 ended on that day in It would appear that George's tour has been a great success. He has told the story of the selfless voluntary work of the young American men who came to Europe in 1914 as noncombatants to provide invaluable help to the French army. He has told that story in both schools and public places and has been a marvellous ambassador for both the USA and for the contribution that voluntary work can make to mankind. The diary for his trip is being posted at this website:- (continued on page 5) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 4

5 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 5 The President s Message - Winter (continued from page 4) This is my last newsletter as President of the Early Ford Registry as I shall be leaving the Board at the end of the year and the Presidency will pass to another. It has been an honour to serve the members of the Club and I am delighted to see how the Registry is developing and flourishing. Thank you all for your support and I wish you all the best of luck in the future. You will not be getting rid of me completely. I intend (with the editors permission) to continue to act as a European correspondent and co-ordinator and will be back in USA during 2015 for some of the events. Best wishes to you all and may you spend more time in your Ford than under it. John Biggs President, Early Ford Registry Newsletter Editors Comment John, my personal Good Wishes go to you for taking the time to be our President. You have done a great job of leading us. Your articles and pictures are fantastic. Our members have looked forward to your messages for the past two years. I hope you will want to continue. You have been a "new member magnet" for our group. We welcome Ford Folks from all over the world. I know of no other Specialty Antique Automobile Organization that has grown so strong and so fast as ours. We are all more knowledgeable for the ongoing sharing. You have been a gracious host to us Yanks when we visit England. We thank you for that. We shall always have a ride for you in the USA and we look forward to your return visits. Dave Dunlavy Newsletter Editor and Webmaster 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 5

6 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 6 Vice-President s Message Winter by Rob Heyen, EFR 162 I hope everyone had a productive summer and fall season. It's that time of year in the northern hemisphere when many of us turn our old car attention to repairs, restoration and rebuilding our Fords. Many of you were able to enjoy tours and events such as the Old Car Festival and Hershey, and I look forward to seeing you next season at upcoming tours and gatherings. We are planning an Early Ford Registry Pre-Tour, before the New London to New Brighton tour next August in Minnesota. We'll have more information in the next newsletter. Visit the Early Ford Website! This is a great time of year to reconnect with other Early Ford Registry members as you plan your winter projects. Give each other a call, or send a letter. Visit the website and let's hear about your cars, family or anything you feel like sharing with the Early Ford family. This is the time to make use of our wonderful website. I look forward to checking in with many of online at the website as the winter season sets in. The first "event" of 2015, I hope to attend will be the Pre-War Swap Meet at Chickasha Oklahoma in March. The Early Ford Registry will have another meet and greet as we kick off a new year. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday season, Rob Heyen, Vice-President EFR Article Furnished by Rob Heyen 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 6

7 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 7 Secretary-Treasurer s Message by Rick Lindner, EFR 106 As the Treasurer, I want to report that we are in good financial shape. We recently made a donation to McPherson College for a Student Scholarship, and received a nice "Thank You" letter. I must remind you that dues are going to be due soon, and many of you that attended our Hershey get together have paid in advance. Thank You!! We have several new members and continue to grow. Look for the Board of Directors ballot and Dues Notice in the mail this month. We will be including a pre-addressed envelope with a stamp on it. Our Model "N" project is moving along. Please be generous and remember it when paying your dues. There is a space on the dues notice to contribute to the Richard Oswald 1906 Model N Restoration Project. We need your help for a projected "assembling" of this Ford at the Piquette plant sometime later next summer - hopefully in time for the Old Car Festival in September. Paint, upholstery, and some front end work are the major areas the team is working on. Your donation is 501(c)3 Income Tax deductable. Please ask for a donation receipt. Hope you all have a wonderful Holiday season and may you get that hard-to-find Ford part for Christmas!!! Rick Lindner EFR Secretary-Treasurer Newsletter / Website Manager s Message by Dave Dunlavy, EFR 41 Thanksgiving comes at a great time for the EFR. Here are some EFR things I'm Thankful for: Freedom to be able to own, restore and drive our old cars. Good Health to be able to work on and drive old cars. Friends and Fellowship that our EFR organization affords us. Living in Safety provided by our National Armed Forces Worldwide. Living where we can afford to eat plenty of safe foods. A Loving Family who allows me to have old cars as my hobby. The opportunity to entertain, demonstrate and educate with my old cars. Allowing me to work with young men to give them mechanical experience. Serve my fellow hobbyists through work information dissemination. Here is my personal "Thank You" to the great members making this, the fastest growing single marque auto organization. Dave Dunlavy Newsletter Editor & Webmaster 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 7

8 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 8 Editors Note: We are very pleased to include this article by Guest Writer, Emma Jackson. The Importance of Ford's Early Presence in Europe by Emma Jackson*, Guest Writer Ford is a quintessentially American company, but it has always had a presence in Europe, from the very first. This presence has not only helped the company to grow through gaining access to a larger market, but also contributed to the development of motoring technology. The US might have been the home of the classic Ford car, but Europe was an enticing market with a history of manufacturing and racing. The Early European Motor Industry Establishing a presence in Europe in the early 1900s was very important to Ford, since it created a foundation on which the company was able to grow through the rest of the century. It also gave Ford a place in the early European automotive industry. Competition from European manufacturers, and on the thriving European motor racing scene, helped to drive rapid technological development in the motor industry at this time. Much as motor sports continue to do today, well-publicized races helped promote successful manufacturers and drove them to invest more in building better and faster cars. Manufacturers wanted their cars to be seen winning races, and doing this on the winding roads of Europe required different skills and designs than the straight, open roads of the US. Events like the Gordon Bennett Cup races and the 1908 New York to Paris race were creating new demand for vehicles in Europe, as well as highlighting the growing rivalry between American and European manufacturers. Ford wanted to establish itself on both continents, but this meant catering to two different markets and dealing with these national rivalries. Early Sales in Europe The Ford Motor Company was incorporated in Detroit on June 16, 1903, and the first three Model As were imported into the UK that same year. Since the US factories were only producing a few vehicles a day at this time, before the faster working methods that Ford became famous for were invented, this marked some serious interest in cultivating the European market. These first Fords to reach Europe went on to appear at the Cordingley Automobile Show in Islington in March Their presence here proved to be very significant, since one of the attendees was Aubrey Blakiston, who was inspired to start selling Ford cars in the UK. He quickly put in an order for 12 cars from the US and leased a London showroom at the heart of the coach building and motor trade in Long Acre. It proved difficult to sell these first dozen cars. It took more than a year to find buyers for them all, but business would become brisker after a young car enthusiast called Percival Perry joined the sales team. By 1906, Perry had taken over the sales agency, and was busy selling the very popular, and competitively priced, Model N The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 8 (continued on page 9)

9 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 9 The Importance of Ford's Early Presence in Europe by Emma Jackson*, Guest Writer (continued from page 8) It was Perry who helped to establish the UK as the most important market for Ford in Europe, above France. The French motor industry had previously been seen as the biggest and most important in Europe. One of the first European Ford sales was to a French customer, and Paris received its own Ford Branch Company in 1908, before the UK. This was intended to be the headquarters for all European sales, under the supervision of American manager H. Baker White, whose salary was equivalent to $1.5 million in today's money. The British branch of Ford was created one year later, in 1909, under Perry's management, and the first Ford dealership in the UK opened in Southampton in Perry's success in the UK convinced Ford to set up their first European factory in Manchester, in 1911, to take advantage of the growing market. British customers were at last able to buy Model Ts that had not had to be imported from across the pond, although many of the mechanical parts were at first still being brought ready-made to Manchester from the US. France did not get its own plant until 1913, when one was established in Bordeaux. This French plant was at first run by a local agent, before quickly being taken over by Ford itself. Other markets in Europe were difficult for Ford to break into at this time. Germany, which had been at the forefront of the motor industry since the 1890s, was particularly difficult, and did not get its own Ford Branch until Russia, despite getting its first Ford sales agency in 1907, was also slow to take up the brand until it began selling tractors after the Revolution. Even in countries like the UK and France, sales were low compared to those in the US, particularly before manufacturing plants were established in the region, but the company's early presence in Europe did later develop into a profitable and important part of its business. After 1910 Basing the first factory in the UK proved to be a success. By 1913, the Manchester plant managed to produce 6000 cars over the course of the year, enabling the Model T to become the most popular car in the UK, cornering 30% of the market. A moving assembly line was only established at the plant in 1914, producing 21 cars every hour, and enabling even greater expansion. By 1919, 40% of all cars in the UK were manufactured by Ford. From the 1920s onward, Ford increasingly opened up branches and manufacturing plants around the world, making the Model T the first global car, with nearly identical vehicles being sold in worldwide markets, occasionally with a few aesthetic tweaks to suit local tastes. Ford's factories were also inspiring European and global manufacturers with the faster processes introduced with the Model T in 1908, and this influence went far beyond the automotive industry. References on next page (References on page 10) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 9

10 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 10 The Importance of Ford's Early Presence in Europe by Emma Jackson*, Guest Writer (continued from page 9) References: 1. The New York Times reports on New York to Paris the Hard Way, 100 Years Ago 2. The Henry Ford Museum's chronology of the Ford Motor Company 3. The Henry Ford Story from Ford UK 4. The rise of Ford in Britain: From sales agency to market leader, , archived article by University of Leeds' Steven Tolliday 5. History of Ford and Biography of Percival Perry from Grace's Guide 6. The German Tourist Board on the Home of the Car 7. The Independent on the Model T Ford: The car that changed our world * Emma Jackson works as a freelance writer now, but prior to that she was in the finance sector, working for various big money corporations. The cut and thrust of the business world proved too challenging and after settling down to family life she found writing more pleasurable and this is how she spends her life now. My First London Brighton Run by Rick Lindner, EFR 106 I am writing this from London, taking in some sites and getting ready for the oldest antique auto rally in the world - The London to Brighton this Sunday!! I'm excited to say the least and have been enjoying my stay as the weather (except for an all day drizzle yesterday) has been quite good. It is supposed to change and be rainy and cold for Sunday. We shall see. The English are always so nice to be around, and I do enjoy the lanquage and signage around the city - as I do every country. There are so many ways to say something, that I have to take a moment to think about it. Have walked down to Hyde Park, then out Oxford Street to the Theater district, up to Regent's Park, over to Baker Street, and back to the hotel for afternoon tea - a must when you are here. While stolling down Oxford street, I came upon a building that looked a lot like the PBS show about the Selfridge Store - and it WAS!!! Just as nice inside as the show, people in suits and all. (continued on page 11) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 10

11 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 11 My First London Brighton Run (continued from page 10) Things happen fast the last couple days, so I will bring you up slowly. On Saturday, before the rally on Sunday, the cars are displayed on Regent Street in conjunction with other car/motorcycle groups. This street is full of shops, and the area closed off is from Oxford (a main shopping street) down to Piccadilly Circus - a major road and the cause of a major traffic jam - but what fun!! The vehicles number over 100, but are only about 25% of the total in the run. Over thirty countries and 120 makes of vehicles participate, some one of a kind. Lunch was at the Royal Auto Club, an elegant building with a lunch to suit it. The best part of this outdoor show is that many dress in period costumes - something they will not wear the next day when they drive. The morning starts about 4 am and everyone is supposed to be lined up by 6:30 for a 6:54 start, just as soon as the sun breaks. However, if they waited for that, we would all still be in our cars - for there was no sun today. I came in the gate where most of the trailers were and walked around watching them start and move the cars. Americans have a "big is better" look on things and many of my friends trailers alone would fit the Brits tow car and trailer together. They section off the cars by years and horsepower for some sections and there are around 14 in all. The earliest start first and then progress until all have hit the road. Again, I find the Brits have very "mannerly ways" to let you know when to leave. In America, we have at least one - or more - people shouting to "Come On, Move It" or "Let's Go". Here, a man walks down the lane - silently - with a sign reading "6 Minutes" which mean you better get in the car and get it started. (continued on page 12) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 11

12 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 12 My First London Brighton Run (continued from page 11) We leave Hyde Park exiting through Queen's Mother's Gate, then drive thru the Wellington Arch, onto Contitution Hill, passed Buckingham Palace (where we waved to the Queen), then onto Westminster Bridge where our picture was taken with Big Ben in the background, or as Dave refers to it - "The Money Shot". We fight the traffic lanes along with other cars, buses, trucks, and bicycles. You also need to remember that we need to drive on the left side of the road and negotiate all those "roundabouts" we are so happy with in the States. Fortunately, I was asked to be a passenger in Bill Kennedy's 1903 Cadillac along with his co-pilot Dan. Both are from Illinois and good friends of Dave and Kimberly Shadduck. A little more than halfway, we stop in a town where the Honda dealership has been transformed into a Harrod's rest stop - complete with doorman! Such delicious pastries and warm coffee or tea were a welcome relief for now we had at least gotten through the hardest part of London and looking forward to some open countyside - but we were warned of many hills before we could hit the "downslope" into Brighton. would be under the Queen's rule once more. I have to say, these are the MOST dedicated antique car owners and drivers I have ever met. Some had only a ball cap and light jacket, some had no hat at all - and yet they continued on thru the rain. Americans would call it a storm and pull into the nearest area to wait it out (most likely a pub), but the Brits pressed on. "Just a damp day, mate" they would way. I swear, if we had to fight Valley Forge again - we But we made it!! And what a ride!! I can only say "I want to do this again next year!!!" Rick Lindner EFR Secretary-Treasurer 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 12

13 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 13 Technical Corner - A 2 Cylinder Commutator by Dave Dunlavy, EFR 41 Full disclosure: I have not studied 2 cylinder commutators - I only observed some on early Fords and some other makes. Many of them have a spring loaded arm fastened to the cam shaft. A roller is mounted in the end of the arm. The roller runs on the inner circumference of an insulator ring. Two contacts, steel or brass, are imbedded in the insulating ring and are connected to the vibrator type spark coil. Contact is made when the roller is on the contact, and grounds the low side of the coil, energizing it. A ground wire is attached to the case which ensures the cam and armature has a good ground. The Benford Monarch Timer is an example of this timer. There are complete drawings for a variation of this type used on the Model A & C on the in the Members Area under Technical Drawings. It uses a leaf spring which makes contact as the ignition cam rotates. I used a slightly different approach when building the timer for my 1905 Model F Ford. In order to reduce wear, I used a carbon brush in the rotating part. A very light spring keeps the brush pushed out against the Delrin insulating ring and brass contacts. The insulating ring is mounted in an aluminum body with an arm which attaches to the timer adjusting rod. After driving the car more than 1000 miles, the primary problem is oil getting into the inside of the timer. This is noticed by a reduction in power due to the oil causing poor current flow through the contacts. Simply spraying a cleaner, such as disk brake cleaner or WD-40 fixes the problem. The cleaning can be done with the car running or stationary. (continued on page 14) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 13

14 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 14 Technical Corner - A 2 Cylinder Commutator (continued from page 13) When the weather warms up, I'll cut a groove in the bearing and install an o-ring to prevent the problem. The wear on the carbon brush (from the third brush on a Model T generator) shows very little wear. I carry a complete spare commutator in case of a major failure. The next step in improving one of the weakest links in the Model F car, is to design a completely solid state unit. I will use a Hall Effect sensor to control the buzz coils. This is not leading edge technology as many companies, such as Pertronix, have been using for about 40 years. The intention will be to design a unit that looks stock but performs like state of the art. Dave Dunlavy, EFR 41 Board of Directors Candidates Our current Board of Directors serves as nominating committee for annual board elections. They have announced the names of the candidates for the election held in this month. Ballots and dues notices will be mailed to current members with a postage paid return envelope to all members in the USA. Overseas members vote by . The candidates biographies are shown in order determined by random drawing. Herb Iffrig, St. Peters Missouri I was born in 1956 and grew upon our family farm at St. Peters Mo. I still live there, working on the farm with my brother and also working in construction too. I became interested in antique mechanical things by hearing the stories from my dad and uncle who were farming here at the time. I also got the Model T bug by visiting my Grandmother's house where another uncle had a Model T stored in the garage. I currently have a 1911 Model T Torpedo Roadster, a 1918 Model TT Hucksters truck and a 1903 Model A Ford project car. (continued on page 15) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 14

15 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 15 Board of Directors Candidates Herb Iffrig, St. Peters Missouri (continued from page 14) I enjoy the old Ford forums on the internet and like to make new friends in the hobby. I have been to the Ford Centennial in 2003 and Model T Centennial in I have been to the pre war swap meet in Chickasha several times in the last few years. At all of these events I look forward to meeting other people who are interested in the hobby and learning from them. John Grace, Westland, Michigan - Incumbent from Cecil Ralston's collection. My name is John Grace. I am originally from Pennsylvania, but have been living in Westland, Michigan, for the last 20 years. I have grown up around antique cars. My dad started collecting cars in the 1950's and has restored several Model N-R-S Fords. My best childhood memories are of Cecil Ralston, Les Schuhardt and my dad talking about early Fords and who had the complete alphabet collections. Unfortunately, my dad had to sell his A and his C, but I was fortunate enough to buy them back; the A in 2002, and the C in In addition, I own a Model F that I purchased Antique cars are a big part of my life. I proposed to my wife on the New London to New Brighton Run (MN), and we took our honeymoon in our 1915 Model T on the Glidden Tour. My wife celebrated the Alice Ramsey centennial by driving our 1915 Model T across the United States with our oldest daughter. We also have been co-hosting the Lansing to Dearborn Run (MI) since In past years, I wondered how early Fords could have so much interest, but no club to share that interest. I am delighted that we now have the Early Ford Registry. It has helped me network with so many people and solve different issues as I struggle to keep my cars running. It is important that the club preserves and shares the history of early Fords. It is also our responsibility to attract new members to whom we can pass this knowledge on. The best way to achieve this is to get our cars out and use them so more people are exposed to the wonderful world of early cars! (continued on page 16) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 15

16 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 16 Board of Directors Candidates (continued from page 15) Bruce Van Sloun, Minnetonka, Minnesota My route to joining the EFR and owning a Model S Ford Runabout is roundabout. I ve long been a car guy and had muscle cars early on, but then figured out that going ever faster was a never ending proposition. I switched to sports cars, and several English cars found their way into my garage. Another car guy, and very dear friend of mine, Wes Johnson, lived in Nordeast Minneapolis. We made a point of going to see the New London to New Brighton cars come into the finish not very far from his home. Wes and I would exam all these strange contraptions and were simply amazed at the wide variety of engines, mechanics, speeds and automobile designs. I saw these crazed people coming in, smoke spewing, oil spewing, parts spewing, their jaw set, at blistering speeds of a dozen miles an hour and knew I had to do this. Knowing nothing about early cars, I found a lead on one and looked for someone with some experience to advise me. I was guided away from the car I had found, a 1916 Studebaker with likely cracked cylinders, but they found a car that I should get instead, a 1913 Overland roadster. It was only then that I found that the car was too new for the NL-NB run, but it did set me on the path to find a car that DID qualify, a 1904 Autocar. I ve made the run 6 times in the car now, and it s a favorite event of mine. One of the most enjoyable aspects of the run, is the time spent in the parking lot, working with drivers from all over, with all manner of early iron. It seemed that there was one group of people that seemed to: always have a good time, spill and leak a lot of oil, knew how to drink a beer and had a passion for their cars. This was the Early Ford group of course. My Autocar and I had the fortunate opportunity to be adopted as an Early Ford honorary member, which led to more opportunities for indoctrination. After listening to the never ending discussion on the brilliance of Henry Ford and his engineering prowess, and the clear superiority of his product, I had to admit that I was intrigued. I started entertaining the prospect of finding and taking custodianship for an early Ford. Of course there were a few EFR members that did their best to guide me down the slippery slope. When Dan Walters decided that it was time to pass on his Ford S to the next steward, I jumped at the chance. Dan had done a lot of touring in the car and found that it was running well. None the less, I went through the engine and transmission, just to make sure all was well, and made up a wind front and set of side curtains so I was prepared for early Minnesota spring touring. I ve really enjoyed driving the car around town, it s a MUCH easier car to drive than my Autocar, and lends itself to spur of the moment runs, having put more than 700 miles on it this summer. My daughter also enjoys driving it, and hopes to join me on the New London to New Brighton run as the pilot. (continued on page 17) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 16

17 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 17 Board of Directors Candidates (continued from page 16) Rob Heyen, Milford, Nebraska - Incumbent I grew up in Milford on the farm my father was born on. We are fourth generation farmers and I developed an interest in Model Ts at an early age when I resurrected a T and drove it on country roads prior to high school. Following high school, I sold the T, and went on to a career in the Army Reserve and Law Enforcement. I attained the rank of Captain, was an Airborne Ranger, and also was an investigator prior to returning to the farm. I also have a Crop Insurance business, with agents and clients in seventeen states. My wife, Holly, is a Financial Planner (CFP) with RBC Wealth Management in Lincoln NE, and we have two children Ashlea, 16 and Elianna, 14. Their interests include horses, sports and reading. Currently, we have a stable of horses and cars, the cars including my wife s two Chebbies (67 and 98 Corvettes) and my 1906 N, 1907 K, 1909 T, 1913 T, 1922 TT. In addition to the EFR, I am a member of HCCA, AACA, MTFCA, MTFCI and VMCCA. I re-entered the antique car hobby about ten years ago, and slowly gravitated back to Model Ts along with a growing appreciation for early Fords. My favorite car is our 1907 K Roadster. If you elect me, I promise a chicken in every pot, and Ford in every garage. Well, not really. However I do treasure the relationships I have with many EFR members, and appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve.. Milt Roorda, Odessa, Florida Rosemary and I live in Tampa, Florida. As with most young boys I was enthralled with cars, when I was in high school in the early 1970 s. But then marriage and raising children delayed my car hobby. We got back into old cars in 1996 with a purchase of a 1924 Model T Roadster. Rosemary and my interest lie in the early years of Ford My motto is No Doors which would encompass these years. (continued on page 18) 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 17

18 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 18 Board of Directors Candidates (continued from page 17) Milt Roorda, Odessa, Florida Really what I find interesting is you can actually see the innovation in the manufacture of the car industry as the models and years progressed. The hobby has different parts to it. Some folks enjoy restoring and working on brass cars, some enjoy showing their cars at shows. Our interest lies in driving the cars, we tour about miles per year. We currently have a 1906 Model N, 1909 Model T, 1911 Model T and a 1912 Model T. I would love to serve as a Board Member. The EFR is a very good way to connect with like minded people and it is always fun to see folks at tours and swap meets. I would appreciate your vote. Bruce Balough, North Canton, Ohio After a 35 year career in the entertainment industry that included 25 years running a Performing Arts facility in a school, I retired in My hobbies have been racing Sailboats, Aircraft restoration, Flying in and working at airshows, and in the last ten years restoring and driving old Fords. In my garage are a 1926 Tudor, and a 1908 S Roadster. I was raised in the industrial engine business at my father's shop gaining knowledge about the internal combustion engine. My family history includes my Grandfather working in the experimental room at Ford on the design of the Model N, and T. Later starting and running Hercules Motors from 1915 to I think it s in my blood. I have in the past I served on pilot association boards as member and president. My current project is working for The Henry Ford Museum on the personal papers of Joe Galamb. I would enjoy serving on the board to help preserve the cars and history. The Board of Directors elected now will serve a three year term from 2015 through A ballot is being mailed to all members in the USA in November. Members outside the United States will receive an with the candidates' names listed. Those members should simply reply with names of three candidates. Please vote for three (3) candidates of the six running - no more. Ballots marked with more than three (3) will not be counted. We thank all six candidates for their interest in our organization The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 18

19 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 19 Tours, Swap Meets and Events March 19-20, 2015 Annual Chickasha Pre-War Swap Meet, Chickasha, OK We will have a Meet & Greet on Thursday afternoon, March 19 th at 4:00pm in the meeting room in the Center Building. We will have plenty of refreshments and treats. For the latest information, call Dave s cell at August 1-3, 2015, Saturday-Monday Fifth Early Ford Registry National Tour, Paynesville, MN. This tour features flatland drives with great scenery and plenty of time to visit with your friends. We have a block of rooms reserved at the Paynesville Inn & Suites ( ). Make your reservation now. Our block of rooms will only be held until July 1. If you have any questions call or Rob Heyen ( rob4holly@hotmail.com). August 5-8, 2015, Wednesday-Saturday The Annual New London New Brighton Antique Car Run in Minnesota. There will be warm-up tours on Wednesday, August 5 th thru Friday, August 7 th based from New London. The 120 mile Grand Tour will occur on Saturday, August 8 th, starting in New London and ending in New Brighton. Entries are limited to vehicles with any number of cylinders built through 1908 and one and two cylinder vehicles built through You can find more information on September 10th & 11th, Thursday & Friday 2015: Lansing to Dearborn Run for early small horsepower vehicles co-hosted by the Snapper's Brass & Gas Touring Region AACA and the Southern Michigan Motorist Regional Group HCCA & the Northwest Chapter Steam Automobile Club. John Grace, Rolf St, Westland, MI phone jfgrace@peoplepc.com The Early Ford Registry, Inc. Officers** President John W. Biggs EFR 2 ( ) JohnWBiggs@aol.com Vice-President Rob Heyen EFR 162 ( ) Rob4Holly@hotmail.com Secretary-Treasurer Rick Lindner EFR 106 ( ) Phone colscarguy@gmail.com Chairman, Restoration Committee Jerry VanOoteghem EFR 95 ( ) Phone jerryvan@ameritech.net Newsletter Editor - Internet Web Master Dave Dunlavy EFR 41 Phone Cell dave@dunlavy.us Directors* Richard Emery, EFR 83 ( ) Phone randkemery1@aol.com John Grace EFR 85 ( ) Phone jfgrace@peoplepc.com Paul Mikeska, EFR 168 ( ) Phone paulmikeska@yahoo.com Ned Protexter, EFR 307 ( ) Phone ned.protexter@gmail.com Dave Shadduck, EFR 147 ( ) Phone das1930@yahoo.com *Directors are elected by the general membership for a period of three years. **Officers are elected by the Board of Directors annually The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 19

20 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 20 Tours, Swap Meets and Events September 12th & 13th, Saturday & Sunday 2015: Dearborn, MI - Old Car Festival at The Henry Ford for pre-1932 vehicles. Go to for more information. Contact: Abby Boggs, or participantinfo@thehenryford.org October 7-10, 2015 AACA Eastern Division National Fall Swap Meet, Hershey, PA. We will have a Hershey Meet & Greet with time and place to be announced later. For Sale, Trade, Wanted to Buy Wanted to Buy Need 1 front hub and 2 sets of bearings for a Model C Ford. Randy Shelton, EFR # 274, rshelton@ford.com For Sale 20 flywheel for 10hp Ford. Richard Emery, randkemery1@aol.com New Reproduction N.R.S. Ford Parts. Complete set of transmission gears (6 pieces) $ (635, 663, 670 and 679). Transmission gears are made with 4140 steel and core hardened to 40 to 45 Rockwell. Rivet set for transmission gears (16 rivets). Specially forged 60 degree countersunk heads for installing the gears to the drums. $40.00 per set. All above parts are plus packaging and shipping. Please or call for a complete list of new parts and prices. Floyd Jaehnert, 1679 Atlantic St St. Paul, MN Phone or floydj@usfamily.net 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 20

21 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 21 For Sale, Trade, Wanted to Buy For Sale Parts for NRS Fords Model N Fenders Brackets for the undersides of the fenders Fender irons from frame to fender straps and clips Side lamp brackets (specify which model) - Coil box switch (square Splitdorf) Tail lamp bracket Trunk lid handle Timer complete with roller and cover Timer complete with roller and cover Exhaust pipe muffler muffler brackets muffler nut water pump impeller - water pump gears gas tank gas tank sediment bulb crank handle crank holder, fork radiator cap transmission fiber disc set (#664, 695 & 696) - brass tube between cylinders band lining original type fiber nuts for the water pipes between cylinder & spark plug wire holders tube to radiator brass plates around the pedals, complete with water manifold #465 emergency brake holder pressure oiler one way valve Glenn Rand 4626 Paradise RD, Seville, OH call in evening caps for oil filler pipe, pressure oiler & mechanical oiler 2014 The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 21

22 2014 The Early Ford Registry Newsletter page 22 About Us... The Early Ford Registry, Inc. (EFR) is a Chapter of The Model T Ford Club of America (MTFCA) and an Affiliated Register of the Horseless Carriage Club of America (HCCA). You must be a member of the Horseless Carriage Club of America and we encourage membership in the Model T Ford Club of America. Contact the Secretary for specific information regarding furnishing your membership number. We welcome anyone with an interest in Ford automobiles manufactured from 1903 through 1909 (those were generally manufactured in the first manufacturing plant that Ford Motor Company built, the Piquette Plant). You do not need to own a car of this vintage to be a member of the EFR. Annual membership dues: $15 US to receive Newsletters by - $25 US to receive Newsletters by USPO in the USA - $35 US to receive Newsletters by USPO outside the USA. We are a 501(c)3 Non-profit tax-exempt corporation. This means you may make tax deductable donations of material and money to us and receive a receipt letter which may be used to itemize your Income Tax. The corporate office is 2895 Bluffton Road, Decorah, Iowa The web page is The Early Ford Registry, Inc. is not responsible for any incorrect technical information contained herein. The opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of the editor or EFR. For Sale and Wanted Items are listed as a free service to EFR members. The editor can not be held accountable for unclear or misleading statements in listings. We welcome newsletter judging. If you judge this newsletter, you are agreeing to furnish complete scoring records to the EFR Editor, so we may continue to improve our effort. If you have any questions regarding our organization, please contact the Newsletter Editor by at NewsletterEditor@EarlyFordRegistry.com or write to Newsletter Editor, The Early Ford Registry, Inc., 2895 Bluffton Road, Decorah, IA The Early Ford Register Newsletter Volume 12 Issue 4 page 22