March 31, 2001 – Model T Ford Tour to the Indian Motorcycle Factory
The Santa
Clara Valley Model T Ford Club met in south San Jose and
toured via back roads to Gilroy. While Gilroy is famous for
garlic, in this case the destination of the tour was the Indian
Motorcycle factory.
No, I don't have a Model T. But they are a tolerant group and
seem to be happy to have a modern (at least compared to the
Model T) 1933 car of different manufacture tag along.
The Indian company lead us in small groups along the entire
assembly line and through the machining, welding and powder coat
areas. A very interesting tour. Is it time to get a motorcycle
and hit the open road wearing black leather?
 |
We met at the usual place: The Shell station at Almaden
and Blossom Hill. |
 |
Another view at the start. Along with the Model T Fords
was a Model A, a 1924 Lincoln phaeton, a 1924 Dodge
commercial wagon and the newest, my 1933 Plymouth. |
 |
On the road. |
 |
At the Indian factory in Gilroy. A 1941 Nash joined us
here. Is is amazing how low, sleek and modern the 1933
Plymouth looks compared to even the later Model Ts. |
 |
Another view of the cars on the tour. |
 |
Another view of the cars on the tour. |
 |
Near the start of the line. Only a frame and wheels at
this point. As the bike moves down the line more and more
parts are added until the finished product is rolled off the
table. |
 |
The engines are received from the vendor as parts and
are assembled in the Indian factory in another area on the
shop floor. |
 |
As the bike moves down the line, it begins to resemble a
finished product. |
 |
Unlike Ford's famous "any color as long as it is black",
a number of colors are available. |
 |
Near the end of the line, just about ready to hit the
open road. |