Model T and/or A Battery Boxes

[kevinrude]

These are advertised at a local auction tonight. Do I remember correctly that these can be converted, or used as is, as batteries for early row boat motors? If so, is there a way I can test them to see if they work? How much should I expect to pay? There is one that appears to be identical to the one on the far right for sale on ebay now for $25. They’re being advertised as Vintage Ford Model T or A type wooden battery box ignition coils. True?

Thanks.

[Mumbles]

They are Ford style Model T ignition coil boxes, or buzz boxes as they are usually referred to. They contain the ignition coils and condenser for one cylinder and the Model T cars used four of these buzz boxes. On top of the box are the exposed points which buzzed during operation. These boxes need a separate power supply, like a 6 volt battery, to operate.

On an outboard motor, they can be used to replace a faulty magneto system. Here’s some more information explaining how to check and repair them:

http://members.iinet.net.au/~cool386/fo … coils.html

[Alan Pelot]

I have purchased them at auctions and flea markets for $5.00.

[Buccaneer]

I have used them successfully on "Hit and Miss" engines with a 6V battery .

Prepare to be boarded!

[kevinrude]

Thanks for the info, guys. Since they are that cheap (relatively) and I don’t currently own a rowboat motor, I won’t bother going to the auction. It’s a bit of a drive from here and I’ll probably come back with some other stuff I don’t need. 😕

[amuller]

I don’t know about the larger one in the back, but the others look like model T "buzz box" coils. Four were used per car, one for each cylinder. They are not batteries and the model A used a more conventional distributor/coil ignition. There is lots of information online about how to repair these and parts are available.

These are sometimes used on old stationary/marine engines.

[Author]

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