1923 Ford T-Bucket

Description

T-Buckets were the first cars to be modified and started the custom car scene almost a hundred years ago. So how do you build something unique and different anymore? Well, check this one out, and you will see how different and personal they still can be, and why they are still popular as parts of automotive history as well as very personal expressions at the same time.

The shape is timeless, simple, minimalist. It's easy to see where the "bucket" term comes from, especially when viewing it from the side. Removing the hood and fenders and pushing the front axle all the way forward gives the car that long, lean and low, look. From these traditional styling cues, the build gets more personal. This one looks like it was meant to head out to a back road somewhere for some heads-up racing. The car is painted in a very unique Dark Mahogany Metallic with a matt finish on the body, gloss on the frame rails and engine, and gloss black on some of the mechanicals. The steel wheels are simple and functional. Headers have removable caps for getting through town quietly so you slide out to the race without being too obvious. And that vintage front tag is just a nice touch.

Form follow function, and a roof and doors are just excess weight. So, step over, climb in, or jump into the bucket. Once in, settle into the comfortable cloth and vinyl seat and soak up the beautiful interior that is a perfect complement to the body color. You will notice the Mahogany boards used for the flooring and the dash. They are a perfect tribute to the roots of the movement and they look great too. Now down to business. Auto meter gauges are there to keep track of critical engine functions and a tach is mounted on the steering column so you don't over-rev the engine. There is a big 'ol diamond plate gas pedal and big round brake pedal to ensure that you don't miss them in the heat of battle. A "Built, not bought" plaque on the floorboard reinforces the roots orientation of this ride.

The choice of a trusty 350CI Chevy that's been dressed up like an Oldsmobile motor adds to this unique build. It is different and looks awesome painted in the glossy form of the Dark Mahogany body color. The air filter housing looks like it was fabricated from and old hubcap by someone who is part mechanic, part metal sculpture artist. The shorty headers are there to provide maximum power, but are able to be diverted for (reasonably) quiet in town cruising and uncorked for a back-road run. (or uncorked in town if you want to attract attention). An electric fan on the radiator keeps things running cool, and speed stickers on the frame rails leave no doubt about the cars intentions as well as giving a nod to sponsors at the same time. Power flows back through a 3-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels suspended on a leaf spring rear suspension which is a bit different than the usual coil overs. Simple, sweet looking, functional.

Check out this T-Bucket and see if it expresses your sensibilities with its choices in the design and build. If it does, take it on home and make it yours.