1931 Ford Model A DeLuxe Coupe
- Engine
- 200.5 cu. in. inline-four L-head, single carburetor, ~40 bhp
A 1931 Ford Model A DeLuxe Coupe paired with a purpose-built house trailer, this ensemble functioned as the travelling sales outfit and living quarters of J.M. Keely, a Florida and Gulf Coast representative for Horrocks-Ibbotson fishing tackle and marine products. The car was extensively modified with heavy-duty Model AA truck running gear and dual generators to power the trailer, while the trailer itself features nautical-themed interior fitments, vacuum brakes, and a shore-power electrical system. Period fishing supplies, letterhead, and maps survive with the rig.
Ownership
- —Auction saleEstimate US$100,000 – US$150,000
- Date unknownAcquisition unknownJ.M. Keelypartial documentation
Used the vehicle and trailer as a combined mobile sales office and living quarters while selling fishing and marine products along Florida and Gulf Coast towns during the Depression era.
Competition
No competition history extracted from the catalogue.
Maintenance & restoration
- —Modification
The Model A's rear suspension and cross-member were substantially reinforced, and the rear axle, hubs, brakes, and wheels were replaced with heavier-duty Ford Model AA truck components. A second six-volt generator was added to the four-cylinder engine to supply power to twin storage batteries serving the trailer's lighting.
The trailer was also built on a Model AA truck rear axle and fitted with vacuum-operated brakes drawing from a unit in the Model A's engine bay, plus a 110-volt shore-power system for use at camp.
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