The March meeting of the Texas Touring T’s was kicked off by Tommy Supak at the Feed Barn on Thursday March 12, 2009. A packed house of 18 members were present for the meeting. Tommy requested a report from the secretary and treasurer but they were not available. Ernie reported the Model T DVDs approved for purchase at the February meeting were pending purchase and would arrive soon after they are ordered.

Tommy reported on a successful February Model T workday hosted by Ben Hardeman and Ross Lilleker at Texas T Parts. Fourteen members participated in the work day. Tires were mounted, a new top was installed on a touring car, wiring projects were performed, differential oil leaks were slowed, and a plethora of other projects were tackled on member’s cars. Ernie Wentrcek proposed another workday be held in a couple of months to learn how to hand crank a Model T.

Tommy discussed several tours that are coming up in the near future. The Natchez Trace tour is near the end of April and registration for the tour is due by April 1. The Azalea Tour in Tyler and Charlie Tyner Memorial Tour to the Schwecke Ranch were two other tours discussed. Tommy also acknowledged advertising for the Natchez Trace Tour, Lilleker Antique Engines and Restoration, and Texas T Parts were in the Vintage Ford Magazine in February.

The program for the meeting was presented by Ross and Ben. They each had handouts of tools and parts they carry on different length tours. Ross’s handout was titled “Suggested Supplies and Tools for Model T Touring” and Ben’s was “What’s in Your Tool Box. Ben also handed out a “Model T Self Inspection” checklist. The list is a safety check list of items to inspect on your Model T prior to touring.

Upon completion, of the formal program, Bruce Lilleker presented a photographic slide show with narration of their Model T Tour and experiences in New Zealand while attending the 100th New Zealand anniversary of the Model T. It seems the Model T arrived in New Zealand one year after the Model T was introduced in the United States. After Bruce’s presentation, the meeting adjourned.

Submitted by Lance Bullard, Secretary