The Ford Model T bridges the gap between when cars were mostly built by hand to when mass-produced, interchangeable parts came along. Sometimes, that means that the most effective way to repair one is to go back to the blacksmith-like techniques of yesteryear instead of needlessly dragging the T into the space age. If you're used to the more modern approach, a Model T is refreshing to work on.

Bryan Cady, of Albany, New York, hasn't had any trouble with his Model T's number one main bearing, but earlier this year he learned firsthand why many Model T owners prophylactically replace the original-equipment babbitt thrust washers (selected for economy and ease of installation) with hard-wearing bronze or brass thrust washers.

The downside to the copper-alloy washers is that they come oversize and must be fitted by hand, which involves lots of sanding. That said, there's really no superior way to do it and the effort invested now will pay off in longevity.

Once the washers measured properly, the rear axle assembly went back together dry and was spun by hand. Scuff marks showed high spots, where the washers were too thick—the whole shebang was then disassembled, the bearings sanded further, and the process repeated until there was no more drag showing on the thrust washers. Of course, there was more to putting the rear back together than just that, including the inevitable surprises, so take a look through the gallery and let the captions walk you through reassembly.