My '26 came with 2 spring that fit against the spindles and wrapped around the tie rod. They're worn out and I don't see anything like them in catalogs, or even in the Ford T service manual photos. Are these an aftermarket gimmick from the past?
They're supposed to help if your front end has shimmy, all they really do is wear big grooves in the spindles.
I think you can also put them on your brake rods as anti-rattlers.
I'd just take them off and make sure your front end is in good shape.
Are they these? The have a bad reputation.
http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/257047/326983.html?1355174093
Jon - Do they look like these? If so, they were an after market "anti-rattle" spring intended to reduce/eliminate tie-rod rattle when steering components became worn.
Yes, that's them. I knew you guys would know. Thanks, they're going in the trash.
Jon
Jon - You might try listing them on the classified section. May be someone out there wants them, if for nothing more than conversation pieces. Same to toss an original set of T accessory equipment. JMHO.
While I wouldn't use them, I don't think they're going to kill anybody. If I thought they were truly dangerous I'd take them out of circulation, but I think they're safe to sell or give away.
Jon, there just a rig fix that are used when the tie rod pins and bushings are worn out. I still wouldn't throw them away though.
Stephen
I put em back on the 24 after rebuilding the front end a few years back, conversation piece and can't see any damage done after over 48k. KGB
I'll hang them up on the garage beam next to the water pump
I have a true set of new old stock. I kept them for decoration. I'll sell them if you really like them and want to use them.
Sorry, but I'm glad I don't need them. I split the wishbones and lowered the front end with the spring behind the axle. They won't fit anymore as the spring shackles are in the way.
My 23 had them when I got it from Uncle George who got it from Grandpa Ludwig. They've been on for nearly 90 years and I don't think a few more will hurt anything. They are conversation starters and an era correct accessory. Same for the bars on the front fenders although they rub the paint off the front of the radiator.
Years ago I had a '27 coupe with a similar setup on it. They were between the axle and the tie-rod to keep the tie-rod ends tight.
My barn '25 had these on, and I still run them.
Of course the front end is rebuilt and they are there for the fun of old time accessories.
The flat strap steel is holding up, and not causing wear grooves like the wire spring type.
They come in a pair, the double hook on goes over the drag link.
Working on the front axle today to re-install the Pancake Hasslers, these were on the T too, and need to go back, keeping all the stuff on this T when I found it seems only worthwhile
Next job is to change out the axle with the perches swiveled around for the Pancakes. This axle will go on another project.