Don and Joyce Schuller’s 1930 Model A combines early Ford looks with all-out hot rod performance. We spotted the Hemi-powered tub while walking around the Winner’s Circle at Goodguys’ Lone Star Nationals earlier this spring, and we immediately knew we had to learn more.
Believe it or not, the Schuller’s ’30 actually left the factory as a two-door sedan. It’s been sliced, diced and now it’s a completely custom tub. Don, a lifelong hot rodder, affectionally refers to his A as a “Phantom Phaeton.” He and Joyce call Fremont, Indiana, home.
Keeping with time-honored hot rod tradition, the tub sits on a 1932 Ford frame. Up front, Don brought down the nose with a dropped and drilled I-beam axle and a reverse-eye spring. Split wishbones keep everything in place. To help dampen the ride, Don installed Ridetech Hot Rod Shocks. The polished aluminum shock bodies add an extra touch of class to the highboy’s front end.
In the rear, Don rounded things out with Ridetech HQ shocks and a Model A leaf spring. Note the fishtail exhaust tips, Chrysler airflow taillights and chromed “T” pushbar.
Adding Fuel (Injection) to the Fire
When it comes to V8 power, it’s hard to beat an early Hemi. The tub’s 330 cubic inch Chrysler Firedome has been detailed to the max, complete with an Eelco 6×2 manifold, a sextuplet of Holley 94 carburetors and a whole lot of translucent red fuel line. Traditional stuff, right? Upon closer inspection, you’ll see that Don actually converted the setup to throttle body injection using 1980s Chevy components. The Hemi is backed by a 700R4.
The creative engineering doesn’t end there, either. While we were talking with Don, he mentioned that he plans to take the car to Bonneville Speed Week. Out on the salt, radio communication is key. “Check this out,” he said, unscrewing the stock gas cap on the top of the cowl. Much to our surprise, he pulled out an antenna. “It’s completely hidden when you don’t need it!” he said.
Above all, the Schullers built their Phantom Phaeton to drive. It has the stance—and it most certainly has style. We’re looking forward to seeing it out on the road at events this summer and beyond.
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