Are some the later columns pretty much the same. I'm looking at one and he doesn't know the year. Other then the ratio are they interchangeable. To me it looks the same as mine, but then most of them do.
If not what is the difference. mine is pretty beat up, and I was going to use it, or use it for parts to fix mine.
Thanks, Pat
The late 1925-1927 columns were different than the 1925 and earlier ones. The last (improved car) columns had a 5 to 1 ratio versus the earlier 4 to 1 ratio. The later column can be identified by a square mounting flange (where it bolts to the firewall); earlier had a round flange. Also the gears were marked with a 5. The later column mounts at a different angle to the firewall because of the lowered "improved body". Thus early and late don't directly exchange. The earlier 9-25 columns generally exchange with the exception of some very early brass era columns (torpedo etc.).
The first electric horn columns 1915-1916 (or is it 1917?) have the horn button screwed on top of the column and the tube for the wire is small. The later ones have the horn button clamped on the side and have a bigger tube for the wire.
Steve,
Nice catch! I knew that. Just looked at some of my 15 stuff yesterday too. (duh).
Thanks for the info. I know know what to look for. The one I was looking at had a round mounting flange, and the horn button on top.
Pat
I have an early 1915 column without a horn wire tube. Only one I have seen but I know there are others out there.
John's column also has the early style spark & throttle ends - long, flattened style unlike the later "Mickey Mouse" ear shape.
John,
I have an early column like yours: no horn wire tube and earlier tapered spark & throttle ends. I also need to find a later 15 column with the small wire tube. First one was used with the bulb horn; later one the brass bell (or black) mag horn.
Steering
Dennis,
I've heard of some restorers going to the local auto parts store and buying a straight piece of steel hydraulic brake line of the necessary length to oxy-acetylene weld - with 'tabs' - to the bottom of the steering column tube. This supposedly appears exactly like to early small (single) wire tube.
George,
Thanks for the idea on the tube. I'll keep that in mind if I can't find the correct column or housing. Kinda hate to modify the nice early restored column without the tube I have. I'm in no hurry at the moment so hope I find a later style column.
Keep looking for the right one. They're out there. Last summer I found a later 1915 column (small tube, button on top) at the local tractor show. In March I found another one at Chickasha. With the two I now have the makings for one good one.