1927 Automatic

Description

The T-bucket is making a big comeback as guys embrace the retro-rod phenomenon, but instead of a modern re-creation of a timeless classic, how about a slick 1927 T-bucket that was actually built in-period? For fans of the anything-goes period in the late-60s, this is a wild trip in a very cool WayBack Machine. Under that brilliant yellow paint, there's a neatly modified Model T pickup that has the classic T-bucket look. There's a lot more work here than you'd expect at first glance; just look at the distinct angle of the cab that continues the rake of the bodywork, while the bed is almost horizontal. It gives the car an exaggerated race stance that doesn't detract from its streetability and looks awesome from any angle. Finish quality is quite good, but as you'd expect of a car with a little history behind it, there are a few signs of use. On the other hand, this car has features none of the fiberglass repros can offer, including real doors that open and a cowl vent that makes for pleasant cruising on the hottest days. A Model T grille shell and track-style headlights give it a bare-bones racer vibe. The interior is also a tribute to the 1970s-style build, with pleated vinyl that covers the bench seat and door panels, and despite the unusual dimensions, it's comfortable enough to cruise the fairgrounds without complaint. Refinished wood floors give it an intentional home-built look and the nicely made dashboard carries a set of retro-looking gauges that are a lot newer than the rest of the car. The steering column actually hangs at a comfortable angle, unlike so many of the other T-buckets you've looked at which have tillers like a city bus. The floor-mounted shifter is pure T-bucket whimsy with its grinning shifter knob and I'm afraid that if you want creature comforts like A/C or a radio, this just isn't the car for you. Heck, there's not even a roof! Power comes from a mid-60s 327 cubic inch Chevy V8, the weapon of choice for a lot of hot rod builders of the time. With a 650 CFM 4-barrel carburetor under that velocity-stack-like air cleaner, it has plenty of pull and it's certainly been built for show. Chrome valve covers, alternator, and other dress-up parts give you plenty of eye candy, which is important since it's all out there for the world to see. Traditional long-tube headers and side pipes are a T-bucket standard, with these wrapped in heat tape to not only protect onlookers, but to add to the vintage performance look. Backed by a stout TH400 3-speed automatic and a narrowed '57 Chevy rear end, it's fairly period-correct, although the recently-installed coil-over suspension probably isn't, although it makes a huge difference in terms of ride quality and handling and the car was set up right. The front end is still a solid axle with a buggy spring, but front disc brakes ensure that it's safe on the road. Classic Weld aluminum wheels look like they belong on the track and carry skinny 26x6-15 fronts and giant 29x18.5-15 rear tires. Retro-rods are red hot, and nothing says retro quite like a T-bucket. With this one, you get all the fun of the outrageous T with a nice helping of history on the side. Call today!