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Fabulous Neil and Mary Tuckett and their wonderful family are so kind, welcoming and hugely knowledgeable. You seldom go somewhere that you could spend days looking around, talking to them. This is an exceptional place with exceptional people! Recommend.

Susan P., via Google Reviews

Very welcoming. I've been over 3 times with my partner and we have always had a very warm welcome (and a cupper) Neil sure knows his stuff and will help you if he can. People may say it's muddy but come on its a farm yard.

Claire M., via Google Reviews

"I am simply over the moon and hugely appreciate all the help and advice Neil has given me to get her up and running and more importantly on the road!"
Scott B., via email

"I attended the course on June 7 this year [2021]. Overall the course is excellent for anyone venturing into Model T or even just interested in veteran motoring. I went along as a Model T was on my shortlist of cars to look at more seriously and so this was a very wise investment. The first part concentrated on the mechanics and general servicing of the car and this was very insightful. Model T's are by no means complicated, but nonetheless you do need to know where to look. Going through this also allowed us to pose questions and become more aware of what to look out for when purchasing or owning a car. The second part was the driving bit. Neil demonstrated it all very well and then it was our turn. After a first drive it was back to the yard to jump into one of several cars that were available. The chance to drive both RHD and LHD was also useful and proved that there was little difference, except the controls get reversed. There are also lots of cars and parts to have a look at so as to wet your appetite for the Model T world. I could not finish without mention of the huge packed lunch, which was lovely and lasted into the following day! In conclusion if you are thinking about getting into veteran motoring then this is a very worthwhile investment. I thought it was going to be good, but it was even better than I imagined. Neil also gives you a booklet with all the information, so no need to take notes." Steve N., Driving Course Attendee, June 2021, via Facebook

Review: “Ford Model T  An Enthusiast’s Guide”

 

Over the years many books have been written about the Model T Ford, but few have successfully combined a solid account of the design, development, technical and manufacturing aspects with the practical side of owning and driving one, at the same time bringing in the car’s wider economic and social consequences. This book does that, whilst also providing an entertaining read.

The Enthusiast’s Guide addresses the full range of Model Ts, from 1908 to 1927, and much more besides. It starts by telling the life-story of Henry Ford, and describing his vision, and his early work on automobiles leading to the formation of the Ford Motor Company. The book touches on the alphabet Models which came before the T, and explains how the Model T came about: it covers the development of its famous assembly process (with a selection of very good assembly line photographs). The book then goes on to give a detailed, well-illustrated description of the Model T, its various components and sub-systems, and how they operate. The wide range of body styles, and the seemingly limitless range of aftermarket accessories that could be purchased are explored. The engineering of the Model T, many aspects of which left a lasting legacy, is examined.

The book follows on by discussing the ownership and driving of a Model T, before widening the scope in later chapters to talk about the Model T and variants in competition (as well as going into Henry Ford’s personal involvement with racers, starting from 1901). It details the wide range of uses to which the Model T has been put, not least its deployment as a clown car, a railcar, and as an aircraft engine starter. The Enthusiast’s Guide concludes with chapters on restoration and “adventures”, featuring an explanation of how to get a Model T up Ben Nevis.

The Enthusiast’s Guide has been written by an experienced motoring author, with extensive contributions from well-known, UK-based Model T experts who have many years of hands-on experience between them. It is nicely produced, in hardback, using good quality paper and printing. It is liberally illustrated with some excellent photographs and drawings.

The book is well organised, with self-contained chapters, and a useful index. As a result, it can be dipped into, skimmed through, or simply read from beginning to end. If desired, much can be gained by just working through all the pictures and graphics.

The Enthusiast’s Guide gives a rounded picture of the Model T, its place in history and its impact. It places the car into its wider context. It also helps to explain the enduring attraction of the Model T, and why it is still looked on so fondly by so many, even today, nearly 100 years after production ended. The Guide should have broad appeal: to existing Model T owners, anyone thinking about getting into Model Ts, as well as to those with a more casual interest.  If you only wanted one book about Model Ts, this would be it.

 

Geoff King, MTFRGB 1468, 30/3/21

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