Speedometers for Model T Fords began as an available option in 1909. They would eventually become standard equipment until their discontinuance in 1915. However, speedometers continued to be available as an aftermarket item in 1915 and beyond.
The Centerdoor Sedan this blog is about, came with an instrument panel with a square cut-out on the passenger side. The speedometer for this car is a Stewart Model 160. This was the most common of the Ford speedometers. Mounted on a rectangular escutcheon that in turn mounted on the right end of the instrument panel. Drum type 75 MPH. Had a 5-digit odometer plus a 3-digit trip odometer below the speed indicator. The trip reset button is on the right side.
(Image below borrowed from the Internet...photographer "unknown").
The instrument panel for my car didn't come with a speedometer, just the cut-out for one. After procuring the rectangular escutcheon for mounting purposes, I then purchased a Model 160. Stewart speedometers could have number dials made of either pot metal or plastic.
This particular example is one that would have a card attached that corresponded to the colored number dials and inform the driver of needed maintenance. It's a very nice example (minus the card), but has a significant problem. The dials are made of pot metal. This type of material swells over time and makes the rotation of the numbers impossible, even if the speed indicator still worked.
So, after conferring with a well-known and respected speedometer re-builder, I purchased this one at his suggestion. (He sent me the eBay link and said it was the one I wanted). I already had an additional Model 160 for parts. This one needed to have the trip odometer gear replaced along with the reset pin.
The number dials of this 160 are made of a different material and rotate as they should. I may replace the original mounting cover with a reproduction but it doesn't seem to not like it's new home.
Now....to acquire all the necessary add-ons to make it run.