Up for bids is my 1931 Model A Ford Victoria Leatherback Murray Body 190-A. The Victoria body style A's were built from November 1930 until the end of production,however, the rare leatherbacks were discontinued in April 1931.
This particular Vicky has been in dry storage for many years making it nearly 100% complete and original with only easily repairable cowl and surface rust. Due to it's storage history, it cranked only needing a good carburetor cleaning, a distributor rebuild, battery and two new engine wiring harnesses.
Starter, generator, worked perfectly and the gas tank only needed flushing! Transmission shifts nicely, no rear end noise, clean radiator water and plenty of power.
Engine cylinders show between 52 and 60 pounds on compression gauge. There is a knock at certain RPMs. Possibly only needing shims removed? Not sure! No guarantees here. Old oil drained quickly with no sludge, etc.
After test driving for several miles, I realized this Vicky would be a perfect candidate for a full body-off restoration. Some basic body restoration has been done.
Top metal has been sanded, Phos-pho treated and primed with etching primer. Body sheet metal has been stripped to bare metal, treated and a light coat of lacquer primer applied to prevent any surface rusting. Easily removed for permanent epoxy primer application and filler body work. No dents! One subfloor piece has been replaced with double planked red oak. All other wood appears to be in good condition. Please note rear window framing is missing but easily replaced.
Front fenders will only need minimum body work however, rears will need some repair as shown in pictures.
Radiator shell is in excellent condition only needing buffing. Very nice headlight buckets, cowl lights and cowl band.
Although the body has never been completely removed, all of the body bolts have been removed except four in the rear.
All seat frames, etc. are in good condition. Solid floor pan!
I have removed all window glass for measurement purposes, risers which work perfectly and garnish moldings. The only parts missing are the two small garnish strips under the door windows (available as excellent repros) and the dash rail.
Unfortunately, due to my age and some medical issues (back pain), I have decided not to complete the restoration. Hopefully someone will take this excellent restoration candidate and bring her back as she was in 1931.
The State of Georgia does not issue paper titles for antique vehicles. I do have the tag registration showing the title number, etc., easily transferred to other states.
Having sold many of my restorations here on ebay, I always advise anyone interested to visit Augusta, Ga. In person or send their representative for an inspection of the vehicle before bidding. I will be available and happy to answer any questions either via phone (706-829-6466) (Frank) or ebay message.
Remember, it costs the same to restore a Tudor Sedan as it does a Vicky. Which would you rather own?
Thanks for looking!
Buyer responsible for shipping or pick-up
Sold "as is, no warranty"
$500.00 deposit required within 48 hours of auction close.
Balance due within ten days.