I belive that this device is/was a device used to replace the coil, points, wiring and switch of a malfunctioing ignition system. It would alow the car to limp to a more convienient place for servicing. The car would have to have a distributer ignition system (not a stock model t ignition but one like a Model A). The box would be hung from the radiator support rods. It would be hooked to the battery. A coil wire would be used to connect it to the distributer cap. Inside the box is a Model T coil, it supplys high voltage for spark. The engine is free timed by the distributer rotor. Each time the rotor passes a spark plug contact inside of the cap, it would fire that cylinder. Just switch on the device and start the car,once started you must shut the device off to get it to stop.
I demonstrated such a device to our Model A club,the members were amazed that it worked. I have seen a schematic for a solid state version that uses a 555 Timing Intigated circuit and a regular ignition coil.
