Lot 629: Ford Model TT 1 Ton Truck

Introduced in October 1908, Ford�s Model T boasted a simple 100 inch wheelbase chassis which contrived to be both light-weight and durable thanks to the pioneering use of Vanadium steel. It was powered by a 20hp, four-cylinder, side-valve engine and the transmission was a simple-to-use two-speed planetary unit. It is said that throughout the Model T�s life the thing that changed most often was the price but notable developments were the adoption of electric lighting in 1915, the black radiator finish in 1916 and electric starting in 1919. Some 15 million owners were to purchase Henry Ford�s Model T in one guise or another in a production run that lasted from 1908 to 1927. From its earliest days the Model T was adapted for commercial use and the Model TT 1 ton chassis was sturdier and longer than the production car with different gearing, giving it greater carrying capacity.

This Trafford-built Model TT was rescued some years ago from a Bingley scrapyard in mechanically substantially complete condition and still carrying the remains of its believed original ambulance body. The vendor�s grandfather had operated Model TT�s in his coal and haulage business in the 1920�s and this inspired a detailed restoration, the ash cab and truck body being accurately recreated from period photographs of a 1920�s truck. Attention to detail and care in the restoration have resulted in this vehicle carrying off concours d��l�gance honours on every outing since restoration and, furthermore this vehicle has successfully completed the HCVS Trans Pennine and East Coast Runs, performing without fault on each occasion. We have seen this vehicle in action and are mightily impressed with its smooth running. The vendor reports that although the magneto is not presently working the vehicle runs exceptionally well on trembler coil ignition. This exceptional historic commercial is not to be confused with the average Ford Model TT frequently offered � its concours d��l�gance record confirms that. Its meticulous private owner offers this vehicle with a Swansea registration document, current road fund licence and reminds us that this vehicle is MoT exempt.