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January 1939. Navigating the business district of Herrin, Illinois, after a snowstorm. View full size. 35mm nitrate negative by Arthur Rothstein.
Many people are surprised at the number of original Model A specimens that still exist, primarily belonging to members of car clubs. Replacement part are also still being manufactured; one former aerospace engineer has actually redesigned the engine with five (one extra) main bearings, pressure lubrication and more strength near the cylinder top, and is trying to put it into production!
These engines were for years modified and used in racing cars, to great effect.
Model A Fords were very good in the snow. They frequently were the only cars that could get through on muddy and snowy roads due to their lightness. The coupe probably had a trunk rather than a rumble seat. No handle is visible under the rear window, and possibly part of one can be seen over the hub of the spare tire, indicating a lifting trunk door. As for heat, a special exhaust manifold was available which included a passageway for air from the engine fan to enter, be heated, and then pass into the passenger compartment.
This car has high clearance which would be helpful in snow. I suspect, though, that the rear end is light so some extra weight there would help. Maybe there is room in the rumble seat for some sandbags. A cabin heater would be useful, too, and I'll bet they weren't standard in those days.
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