While solid front and rear axles are uncommon today (Jeep Wrangler is one exception), many early automobiles used the simple set up. In this video, a vintage 1916 Ford Model T shows off its capabilities on an RTI (ramp travel index) ramp.

An RTI ramp is used to measure axle articulation for off-road vehicles. In other words, a vehicle with good articulation has a better chance of keeping all four wheels planted as it traverses rough terrain. When the Model T first hit the scene, most U.S. roads were nothing more than old cattle and wagon trails. Ford designed the Model T for these rough conditions, addressing them with features like the car’s vanadium- and heat-treated steel frame and front axle.

Both axles are suspended by a transversely mounted semi-elliptical spring. With its suspension design and 30-inch diameter artillery wheels, the Model T has 10 inches of ground clearance needed to tackle the crude roads of its day.

In the video, the 1916 Ford Model T places one front tire on a 20-degree RTI ramp. Thanks to its solid axles, generous ground clearance, and 100-inch wheelbase, the Model T scores an RTI value of 1,040. Scores above 1,000 are ideal for off-road vehicles.

Check out this video below to see a vintage Ford Model T flex its muscles on an RTI ramp.

 

 

The post Watch a 1916 Ford Model T Flex 20 Degrees on an RTI Ramp appeared first on Motor Trend.

Source: Motor Trend