MTFCA Forum

Who has used one?….Does it require more turns of the wheel? One time I was backing up a steep driveway at a local historic mansion and the steering wheel whipped in my hands, that’s why I want to use one.

Yeah, the old "back up the steep hill" routine was almost certainly more folklore and wives' tale than much of a frequent reality. Your experience illustrates exactly why I believe that is the case.

I cannot imagine your expecting to do that on such a regular basis to warrant the expense and effort of a steering box, but who am I to say?

I bought it a long time ago from Max Edmonds, the price was reasonable…..It came with a Model A drag link but it is slightly bent…..I wonder if Sprague provided a drag link and wonder what is looks like?……

Older post on Sprague units. Photos of one installed, post has links to other posts from 2012, lots of pics there too.

Said to have 2 1/2 turns of the steering wheel, lock to lock.

Drag link is a model T factory part.

Edit, oops, there was a special rod!




https://share.google/3nl11EmMkYnSVz1S2

I too would appreciate at least seeing an original and proper factory made spring loaded rod. Indeed, one could likely make a Model A one work, but being a purist at heart, an original would be pretty cool to use. -Dusty

This is close up of the Sprague drag link spring loaded piece on the pitman arm.

FYI, Dennis Fleming has a center door with this accessory steering gear, have seen the car in his T barn.




Or you can use an APCO spring loaded cap to take up wear too.

Another option would be to use a Chevrolet 490 cross steer box and build a mount for it. The ball on the pitman arm is about the same size.

Too much caster could make the car more unstable backing up.

A year or so ago Hank Lee sold a Vega Box kit - everything needed (had to make you own support bracket with the instructions). Maybe he has one left
https://mtfca.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php? ... box#p16404
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Vega Box on Mark's Doodle Bug
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There are 2-1 quick steer boxes that can be put on in backwards to make Model T 8-1 or 10-1 steering ratio
https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Search?q ... Components

What is Dennis Fleming contact information?

The car should handle safely when backing up at SLOW speeds. Too much caster, worn parts, oversize tires, improper tire inflation, bent or loose parts, or incorrect toe-in could make the steering less stable going forward or backward. Most cars are less stable backing up due to the fact that steering angles are reversed and the weight balance of the car is reversed.

WorldChamp1914 wrote: ↑

Wed Dec 31, 2025 1:50 am

What is Dennis Fleming contact information?

Look at the Header top of Forum page, upper right icon 3 lines , click on , box opens , search members, enter member name, page appears with info, scroll down to contact and send pm or email to the member.