I have no idea where this image originated, as I found it randomly on Reddit amongst other places and therefore don’t know the context. That being said, just look at the subject matter—an open cockpit Model T Ford Roadster with tank tracks featuring the original wooden-spoke wheels inside.
Years ago, a 67-72 Chevy truck for sale up by Saskatoon had a flat deck and a tandem axle out back. If I recall, it had typical rust, and it might have actually been a six-cylinder. I have no idea how they pulled off the second rear axle, but I’m guessing it was a non-driven trailer axle, and since I don’t know how the suspension worked either, it’s a total shot in the dark guess for me. I recall the price being pretty good too. If you watch the Grindhard Plumbing Co. on Youtube, you’re probably already thinking about their Ford Ranger project, which features a tandem rear axle setup that actually steers. I’ve seen a few Ford Model T pictures from way back in history, some of them running a tandem axle, and they’re pretty cool, but there’s one thing cooler than more tires, and that’s tracks.
Many years ago, we had an idea to build a tank out of two John Deere 300 snowmobiles. The rubber tracks with bogie wheels could easily do pavement, and the fan-cooled engines could run fine in the summer, especially with an iced airbox. The idea had a few problems, however. First off, how does it steer? Two throttles, two brakes, or both? Second, it would have been wider than it was long, making it tippy when starting and stopping. Finally, how could a potato cannon turret be added without adding to the already top-heavy design? It’s a shame it never came to light, really.
Looking at this Model T brings back all of those John Deere memories. It’s my second favourite Model T body style, only slightly modified into a tank. The fact that it has the stock front suspension and a steering wheel is just bizarre. I’m assuming it has some sort of braking to steer, and I’m hoping the wheel is locked centred to avoid accidentally rolling a track off, but I have no idea. The tracks appear to be pairs of long rubber bands tied together with a bunch of steel bands. I also enjoy the fact that it’s absolutely filthy, yet the driver looks like he’s ready to go to the theatre. Every time I see this picture pop up somewhere, it comes with a different explanation, so I have no idea which one is true if any. Regardless, it’s just too cool that it actually did exist. Sadly, I think a turret would totally spoil the look of this one as well.
Have a question or comment for Kelly? Post it at lmtimes.ca/kirk
