[MikeK]

There are two styles of generator, the 'powerhouse' and the more traditional looking 'long' style. Remove the back cover from the powerhouse or the sheet metal band from the back of the long style. There is one brush that slides back and forth to adjust the field current, thus the output. With the car running about 1200 rpm and lights OFF you can nudge the adjustment position with a stick or other non-metallic rod. With a fully charged battery set it for 3-4 amps. Now turn on the headlights. If the ampmeter shows discharge and you do a lot of night driving you can nudge it up a little more. The Model A does not have an active mechanical voltage regulator like later cars. The round can on the generator is only a cutout relay, disconnecting the genny when the car is off.

For the stiff steering, there are two styles of box. IMHO only the Gemmer is worth rebuilding, as it is more adjustable while on the car. However I wouldn't start there or suspect the box immediately. Put the front axle up on jack stands so the tires are free and try the steering. On all those grease-able linkage joints (drag link, tie rod) you can pull the cotter pin, unscrew the big plug the pin goes through, and disassemble to inspect and clean/ repack. Very likely the balls are worn out of round. That makes the steering unbelievably stiff. As mentioned, get some good books, start with Les Andrews Vol. 1.