Story and photos by Paul and Marilyn Duncan (edited by Mark Wing)

This was the first Work Day at Larry Azevedo’s garage since the COVID-19 pandemic halted group gatherings. To comply with New Mexico health guidelines, Larry wanted to keep this work party small.

One project that was completed on this work day was the attempt to start Paul and Marilyn Duncan’s 1918 Model T. This T started life as a touring car and was converted to a farm pickup truck in Kansas in the distant past. This car probably has not been started in at least 70 years! Prior to the attempted start, the gas line, Holley NH carb, and a six volt D.C. battery were hooked up, and all fluids were changed. Cranking the car proved to be fruitless. The next approach was to try towing the T with Larry’s jeep. It popped and emitted some intermittent exhaust but still nothing. Paul measured the compression and found 25 psi in the number 1 cylinder and no pressure in the other three! So the T is now back in the Duncan’s shop and Paul and Marilyn will prepare the car to have its engine pulled at a future Work Day. They plan to rebuild the 1918 with a 1919 hogshead so a starter can be added. In the event the 1918 block is beyond repair, they have a later engine that can be pressed into service.

Thank you Larry for holding the Work Day!