MTFCA Forum

I visited the Branson Auto & Farm Museum recently on vacation. they have hundreds of vehicles from horse drawn hearse and carriages to steam tractors and a large assortment of old restored cars and tractors all in mint condition. Most of the vehicles there are on consignment and for sale.
I spied a Brass 1908 ? white Buick with a mother in law seat that was right hand drive and had a three pedal transmission. car had two hand leavers. The configuration of the pedals was different from a model T. Brake pedal on the right. Slow speed. in the middle. and reverse on the left side.
I was surprised to see the Buick set up seemed to be similar to the early 1909 model Ts with two leavers but only two pedals ? Thought someone here might have information on early Buick transmissions. You can take a video tour of the Museum by clicking on https://www.bransonmuseum.com

Jim


That is the 1908 Buick, had 2 speed trans somewhat like Ford, here is a good article to compare these two front runners in the low price car field in 1908!




https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a ... d-model-t/

Thanks Dan. What were the two hand leavers for.

Thanks for mentioning the Model 10 Buick. The outside lever applies the emergency hub brake. The other lever engages the high speed cone clutch.
Here is the layout from the Buick "the Golden Era" 1903 - 1915. It's a rare book I was lucky to get from the previous owner of my Model G. This shows the individual parts of the transmission. It doesn't run in oil like the Model T transmission but uses "Non-Fluid" oil inside the drums. The heavy oil is to reduce it escaping but it does work out onto the linings as things get worn. These are some photos I took from the "Brass Buick" site. I believe the 2 at right are Model 10 although Models F and G are almost the same. Note there are two triple gears compared to the Fords three.

I will mention that the Models F and G which were introduced earlier than the Model 10 did not have a hand brake until 1909. Before that the foot brake was equipped with a ratchet in the pedal plate to lock it for parking. The mating part of the pedal is worn by now and hardly stays engaged requiring a block to be carried to chock the wheel. Note the open area for the "Tilting Steering" on the F and G and the brass button at right to release it. It is a feature I particularly enjoy. The Model 10 didn't need it.
Knowing a bit about the other cars always makes me appreciate the Model T all the more. I believe it is very appropriate for most of us.
Rich

Another picture of the 1908 Buick. Beautiful car.