Old car enthusiasts needed. Danger

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying a device found in a garage, believed to be a voltage regulator from a Ford, and exploring its potential value and applications. Participants share insights on its historical context, uses in practical projects, and market value, with a focus on vintage automotive components.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Historical

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests the device is a voltage regulator from a Ford, noting its wooden case as a distinctive feature.
  • Another participant recalls that Ford ignition coils were historically packaged in dovetailed oak boxes, supporting the identification.
  • A link to an eBay listing for a similar item is shared, indicating potential market interest.
  • Some participants mention the device's value, with one suggesting it may be worth less than $10 on eBay, while another advises against cleaning it to preserve its original condition for collectors.
  • There is a discussion about the device's use in creating Jacob's Ladder projects, with one participant sharing a personal anecdote about using such coils for shock gags in childhood.
  • A participant mentions having created a transistor-driven coil with a 555 timer as a modern alternative to the older devices.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the identification of the device as related to Ford ignition systems and its historical context. However, there are differing views on its market value and the best practices for preserving the item.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the device's identification and value are based on anecdotal evidence and personal experiences, which may not be universally applicable. The discussion does not resolve the exact nature of the device or its optimal treatment for resale.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in vintage automotive parts, collectors of antique electrical devices, and those exploring DIY projects involving high-voltage components may find this discussion relevant.

Integral
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I am still working on cleaning out my father in laws garage, found this device which I believe is a voltage regulator from a Ford. Note that it is in a wood case. Can some one verify or tell me what it is if I am wrong.

stove020.jpg


This is why I think it is from a Ford.
stove016.jpg
 
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At one time Ford ignition coils came in dovetailed oak boxes...
 
Wow.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=390091235969&rvr_id=&crlp=1_263602_263622&UA=WXF%3F&GUID=bf8514b71270a0265360d900fff2974c&itemid=390091235969&ff4=263602_263622
 
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Wow, that was quick. Thanks, I was close but no blue chips.
Looks like it may have some ebay value.
 
Integral said:
Wow, that was quick. Thanks, I was close but no blue chips.
Looks like it may have some ebay value.
Yes. Don't clean it up in any way, though. Some people do rough restorations and they want parts in original as-found condition. If the buyer is a "restore to as-new" type, he will prefer to restore the coil to his own specs.
 
Those have been the basis of many jacobs ladder projects.
 
Averagesupernova said:
Those have been the basis of many jacobs ladder projects.

No doubt this coil is the device that my dad mentioned. As kids they used these for all sort of shock gags. One was what seemed to be a gift, but in fact it was paper wrapped around a wire frame that was hooked to one of these. As the person takes it, you toggle something that causes the magnetic field around the coil to collapse, producing a 15KV or so spark.

Funny stuff, huh ladies? :biggrin:
 
There seem to be quite a few of them on ebay. Looks like I could get something less then $10, hardly worth the effort...


A Jacobs ladder you say? That sounds like a lot more fun then ebay!
 
  • #10
Integral said:
There seem to be quite a few of them on ebay. Looks like I could get something less then $10, hardly worth the effort...


A Jacobs ladder you say? That sounds like a lot more fun then ebay!

I always thought so! I got tired of flaky contacts on the old ones that I had and made a transistor driven coil with a 555 for an oscillator.
 

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