QuestionHi Jack-
In anticipation of my first model a purchase (40th birthday present) next spring I have been researching, reading and watching videos related to the model A. I know very little about cars, but am always willing to learn and take on new challenges. While a pretty vague question, what are some tips or resources I can use to prepare myself to get the most for my money in my hunt for my car. I have a budget of about 15-18k and really like the sedans vs the coupes, mostly so I can enjoy he car with my wife and two daughters. Thanks and keep up the great videos!
AnswerAre you in for some fun. $18,000 will buy you a great car. Main advice is, don't buy the first one you see. There are a lot out there. Go to blurb.com and search for "jackbahm" and look at my two books there on the A. You can preview the whole book, so you don't have to buy them. Also, go to youtube.com and search for me and you will see all of my A videos. Some will be of help to you. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhL36Rc6o5MI4aqHM-yfhqcze8Qq6aS9s
this is the link to the Model A playlist of my A videos. Enjoy.
On your purchase, "they all look good from across the street". A lot of people just do the cosmetics of the job, and not the mechanical part. If you have to do the brakes, that is a big job. If you have someone else do them it will cost you about $1,000. Reach under and feel the main brake lever on the rear backing plate. If it is loose, that means that the brakes have not been done and you will need to put in new bushings, at least. Parts are cheap, but a lot of work to put them in.
Ask when the engine was done, the brakes, and the steering gear.
They should have a record of what was done on the car. Keep in mind, that you may be able to get a good "driver", not a show car, for $10 to $15k. They are out there. The A is very unique and you have picked the right car to get. Hope you can join a local club. Lot more fun that way. You will need a few books to show you how to fix it. Good luck and get a good one. jack
