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Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

A horseless carriage replica is a reproduction of early automobiles from the brass era (roughly 1896-1915). These vehicles capture the style, engineering, and charm of the first cars that replaced horse-drawn carriages. Our replicas are built using modern plans and materials but maintain period-correct appearance.

Not necessarily! We offer plans for various skill levels:

  • Beginner: Speedster, Half-Size Packard
  • Intermediate: 1903 Ford A, CDO, Model N
  • Advanced: REO, Pie Wagon

If you have basic workshop skills (welding, woodworking, mechanical aptitude), you can successfully build a horseless carriage. Our community forum provides support for beginners.

Plans give you complete creative freedom:

  • Source materials locally (save thousands on shipping)
  • Customize to your preferences
  • Use materials you can find affordably
  • Build at your own pace
  • Average cost: $800-$3,500

Kit Cars are more restrictive:

  • Pre-fabricated parts (less customization)
  • Expensive shipping ($1,000+)
  • Must use specific components
  • Limited flexibility
  • Average cost: $30,000-$50,000+

Plans are ideal for DIY enthusiasts who enjoy the building process.

Plans & Ordering

Plans available in:

  • Digital PDF: Instant download via email
  • Physical Blueprints: Full-size printed plans shipped to you
  • Combo Package: Both digital and physical

All plans include full-size (1:1 scale) construction drawings.

Every plan includes: ✓ Full-size frame blueprints ✓ Body panel templates ✓ Mechanical assembly diagrams ✓ Parts sourcing lists with suppliers ✓ Material specifications ✓ Historical reference photos ✓ Modern engine adaptation options ✓ Step-by-step instructions ✓ Lifetime email support ✓ Builder forum access

Absolutely! Our plans are designed to be flexible. Many builders customize:

  • Overall dimensions
  • Material choices
  • Engine types
  • Modern safety features (brakes, lights)
  • Upholstery styles
  • Paint schemes

Your build, your vision.

Digital plans are non-refundable due to their instant delivery nature. Physical plans can be returned within 30 days if unused (shipping not refunded). We're confident in our quality – see our free plans to evaluate before purchasing!

Promotions vary. Call 337-280-9561 or text to check current offers.

Building Process

Build times vary by model and experience:

  • Speedster: 200-300 hours (3-6 months part-time)
  • Ford A / CDO: 250-350 hours (4-8 months)
  • REO / Pie Wagon: 300-500 hours (6-12 months)

Most builders work weekends and complete builds in 6-18 months.

Material costs depend on customization and sourcing:

  • Budget builds: $800-$1,500
  • Average builds: $1,500-$2,500
  • Premium builds: $2,500-$4,000

This is 90% less than purchasing finished replicas or complete kit cars.

Basic workshop equipment:

  • Welder (MIG or TIG)
  • Drill press
  • Hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers)
  • Angle grinder
  • Woodworking tools (saw, router, sanders)
  • Measuring tools (tape measure, level, square)

Most home workshops already have what's needed.

Our plans include comprehensive parts sourcing guides with:

  • Wheel and tire suppliers
  • Axle manufacturers
  • Hardware sources (bolts, brackets)
  • Brass fittings suppliers
  • Upholstery material vendors
  • Engine options (small engines, electric motors)

Many parts are standard automotive/industrial components available locally.

Options include:

  • Model T wheels (readily available)
  • Heavy-duty bicycle wheels
  • Custom-built wooden spoke wheels
  • Steel artillery wheels
  • Modern wheels with vintage appearance

Plans specify recommended sizes and sources.

Yes! Plans include modern engine adaptation:

  • Small gas engines (Predator, Honda GX series)
  • Electric motors and batteries
  • Motorcycle engines
  • Small-block automotive engines (for speedsters)

We provide mounting specs for popular modern options.

Technical Questions

Depends on local regulations. Many states allow:

  • Registration as "Custom Built Vehicle"
  • Registration as "Street Rod" or "Replica"
  • Antique/Classic vehicle registration

Check with your state DMV about:

  • Safety equipment requirements (lights, brakes, mirrors)
  • Emissions exemptions (often exempt for replicas)
  • Insurance availability (specialty insurers cover replicas)
  • Title and registration procedures

Original brass era cars had minimal brakes. Our plans include:

  • Modern hydraulic brake adaptations
  • Improved brake drum specifications
  • Safety chain steering reinforcement
  • Lighting system integration (LED options)
  • Seat belt mounting points (optional)

Safety improvements can be incorporated while maintaining period appearance.

Standard auto insurance often covers replicas, but specialty classic/collector insurance typically offers:

  • Lower premiums
  • Agreed-value coverage
  • Show and parade coverage
  • Flexible usage terms

Companies like Hagerty, Grundy, and American Collectors specialize in vintage vehicles.

Registration process varies by state:

Most states require:

  1. Bill of sale for major components
  2. Receipts for parts (prove you built it)
  3. VIN application (assigned by state)
  4. Safety inspection (some states)
  5. Photos of build process

Contact your state DMV about "Specially Constructed Vehicle" or "Home-Built Vehicle" registration.

Promotions vary. Call 337-280-9561 or text to check current offers.

Community & Support

Multiple support options:

  • Email Lee directly (personal responses within 24 hours)
  • Post in HCR Builders Forum (300+ experienced builders)
  • Call for phone consultation (337-280-9561)
  • Search forum archives (likely someone solved it already)

You're never alone in your build.

Yes! Join our free HCR Builders Group forum:

  • 300+ active members nationwide
  • Daily discussions and build updates
  • Parts sourcing collaboration
  • Event coordination
  • Master Builder Lee participates regularly

Visit: groups.io/g/hcrbuildersgroup

Absolutely! Check out:

  • YouTube: @leethevenet/videos – Completed builds in action
  • Builder Forum: Members post photos throughout builds

Social Media: Search #horselesscarriagereplica

Currently, we don't offer formal workshops, but:

  • Workshop visits available by appointment (Breaux Bridge, LA)
  • Some builders organize regional meetups (coordinated through forum)
  • Lee occasionally attends car shows (announced in forum)

Shipping & Delivery

Instant email delivery to your inbox as PDF files. Download and print what you need, when you need it.

  • US Shipping: 3-5 business days (USPS Priority Mail)
  • International: 7-14 business days (varies by country)

Tracking provided for all physical shipments.

Yes! We ship plans worldwide. Digital downloads available instantly anywhere. Contact us for international physical shipping rates.

If you're near Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, local pickup available by appointment. Call ahead: 337-280-9561