MTFCA Forum

Roscoe Scheller’s book _ Me and the Model T_ contains an anecdote where Ford dealer Scheller and his crew move the handbrake lever from the left side to the center of the car for a one-armed right-handed customer who will only buy the car if they do that for him.

The fellow ended up being an enthusiastic repeat customer and Scheller made this modification on a number of Model T Fords for him.

Unfortunately, Scheller does not go into detail about the modification… So, how did he do it? Any guesses?

I myself am sort of in the same boat as that customer and would really appreciate having a centrally located handbrake lever.

Kelly

Oops, sorry… Misspelled “Sheller”

My main guess would be where to locate the quadrant to lock the handle in place when you need to.

Leaving the left quadrant and ratchet assembly as-is might be an option: Cut down the left handle and add a foot operated trigger to release the ratchet, then add a plain lever to operate the shaft on the right.

Hey guys, just revisiting this topic… Hopefully, by bumping this to the top of the discussion topic list I’ll get some fresh ideas.

Thanks, TXGOAT2, sounds like that would work!

Kelly

Pre T Fords had a ratcheted foot brake.

I know this isn’t the middle but I had to relocate the handbrake lever to the outside for my speedster I’m building. You can move the lever anywhere on the shaft then make a bracket to hold the quadrant.

Brilliant! Thank you, Corey.

Kelly

Easiest way is to buy a Model A from 29-31. However, it is not a T. I really don't know how it could be done on a T because the frame does not go close enough to use it unless you can mount it closer to the center frame member which would also require shortening the rods.
Norm

Move the drivers position - done!

I don’t have Sheller’s book in front of me (loaned it to a friend), but I seem to recall that he said this was a quick and easy modification to make. Corey may be on the right track… if you can easily move the handbrake lever to any location on the shaft, move it to where you want it, fix it in place, cut a new slot in the floorboard, and then come up with a way to deal with the ratchet quadrant with your left foot.

Kelly