Ford Restoration – The Finale

The restoration project is coming along nicely and Mike has been busy building the custom pedal box using the original ‘Model Y’ clutch and brake pedal. This process began with mounting two pedals to the chassis rail. Around these go brackets which hold the servo and master cylinders.

Welding the brackets in place creates a gap and he filled this using some webbing/strengthening gussets to support the pressure.

Mike needed to know what kind of distance was required for the pushrod arm after bolting the clutch master cylinder in place and he got there by doing a spot of customisation. In typical classic car restorer style he made use of an old horseshoe to create the pushrod arm. The end result was a bit quirky but definitely practical and, without a doubt, the work has enhanced the car’s unique personality.

The pictures shown here are of the completed pedal box taken from different angles so that we can all see the work that Mike has put in.

STEERING IT IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

More improvisation was in evidence as Mike set to the task of making and fixing in the steering box. As is his usual style he made use of some unusual parts that eventually gave him the effect that he was looking for.

In the next picture you can see a MK 2 Transit Steering box. He had to weld an 8mm steel plate bracket on top of the chassis in order to mount the box.

You will note that as it is welded to the chassis Mike had to mount it through the front section of the body shell. This integrating technique certainly adds strength and, eventually, the part of the body that meets the chassis will be boxed in.

You might spot a very unusual bit of improvised restoration work here as Mike used a recycled farm jack, taking leftovers from the home-built front axle and parts from the original piece to create a pitman arm.

You can see what a good job has been done though and Mike tells us that the transit steering box is a perfect ratio for a vehicle lacking power steering. It is robust, will stand up to plenty of stress and looks just right for the job. He is very pleased with the result  and says he will definitely use one on any future project.

The next picture shows the inside view of the steering box and we think that rather than using universal join ts for the linkages, cogs and chains will work better. Mike will, no doubt, surprise us with his improvisation skills.

You can read more about this and any other project by checking our Facebook page where Mike will be on hand to answer any questions that you might have.