| This very cute 1923 Ford Model T Speedster was part of a collection of Model T's in South Australia. It runs on near new 21 inch tyres and its appearance was enhanced recently by a repaint of the body in ' Ivory ' with highlighting of the swage lines in contrasting ' Black' with ' Red ' pin striping and wheels. As ' people in the know ' know, it takes a bit of time and effort to get to grips with the handling of a Model T. For first time practice I suggest a big car park when the shopping center is closed. You get moving into the first forward stage by depressing the left foot pedal and accelerating with the hand throttle on the left of the steering column at the same time. At sufficient speed reduce throttle, take foot of the first stage pedal and throw the handbrake lever on the right hand side fully forward to engage second stage. Then accelerate again. Be careful, these T's can get very fast very quickly. Middle pedal is purely for reverse and paddle on the right is the footbrake, which was never very efficient on Model T's. But you enhance braking by pulling the handbrake lever to the rear, which coincidently disengages second stage. Neutral position is with handbrake vertical. The right hand lever on the steering column is the "Advanced / Retard" control (Retard when cold - up position, advance as engine gets warmer - pull lever down.)
Car starts on magneto with the famous "Buzz Box" buzzing. No generator, but a good 12 Volt battery. Once you have mastered the challenge, this Model T's are some of the most rewarding and fun vintage vehicles to drive.
Remember that Henry sold - I think - about 15 million of them, so it cannot be a hurdle that can't be overcome.
If you are sufficiently interested in this gorgeous little speedster - and you are prepared to get yourself a raincoat and some goggles - contact us to arranging aviewing and test drive. Located near Gloucester. Detailed DVD available.
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