I.D. Streering Column

[Ironrod]

Not sure of want this column fits and would like to identify it and then post for sale. Column numbers are 78-3550, It was removed from a 35 to 40 frame.
Thanks Bob

[Lawson Cox]

What about a picture of the top side of the box. That would give much more info.

[TJ]

The 78 part number puts it in the '37 era.

[V8COOPMAN]

Originally Posted by Ironrod

Not sure of want this column fits and would like to identify it and then post for sale. Column numbers are 78-3550, It was removed from a 35 to 40 frame.
Thanks Bob

Bob......That is a '37-ONLY column. The "78" number on the steering box itself indicates first year of use was 1937, but the same box continued in use way beyond '37. The steering locking mechanism with the switch that moves UP & DOWN like yours is '37-only...when attached to that "78" box. As seen in the pics, '38 and '39 column lock switch moved LEFT to RIGHT. And of course, '40 column had provision for a column shifter. DD





1938-'39:

[JM 35 Sedan]

Originally Posted by Ironrod

Not sure of want this column fits and would like to identify it and then post for sale. Column numbers are 78-3550, It was removed from a 35 to 40 frame.
Thanks Bob

Part #78-3550 is the steering box casting number. The part number on the pitman arm may also provide a clue as to what this column was used for.

The column drop shown in your picture is actually an early '35 drop based on its configuration, the shape of the front of the lock cylinder, and the bullseye on/off toggle lever. It could also be used as is in a '36, but would not be show correct because of the toggle and the lock cylinder, however, those parts could be changed to make it a '36 drop.
The 78-3550 steering box was used from '37 to '48 in passenger cars, but with other parts in the column assembly being different based on the model and year of the vehicle.
I will attach some of my pictures showing an early '35 drop like yours, a '36 drop, and also a '37 drop so you and others who may be interested can see the differences.

[Ironrod]

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Thanks for all of the reply's, I have been away from the computer for a few days.
The new photo of the pitman arm is numbered 78-3590 after the symbol 2-1?

JM 35 Sedan and V8COOPMAN , thanks for the photo's and explanation. Could the column have been assembled with different parts from other years or factory with different year parts. The forum continually increases my knowledge of these old Fords.
Will be putting this in the for sale section, not sure of the value. Maybe someone can put it back on the road with a fair price on the column.

Thanks everyone
Bob

[NealinCA]

It also has a one piece cast iron lower cover with integral light switch bracket, rather than the stamped steel cover with separate stamped bracket. The only other cast piece I have seen like this was on a 39 Mercury.