• The Ruckstell Axle at Matthews Ford
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1928 Ford parts catalog cover

The Ruckstell Axle at Matthews Ford

At the 1924 Matthews Ford Truck Show, a special ramp was constructed to demonstrate the capabilities of the Ruckstell Axle that was an equipment option for some Ford trucks to assist in climbing steep grades and managing heavy loads.

The Model TT truck used for the demonstration was equipped a Ruckstell Axle that allowed it ascend the steep ramp with a full load. Could this have been the earliest example of the now-familiar “FORD Trucks BUILT Tough” marketing?

The Ruckstell Axle was developed by Glover Edwin Ruckstell, an American racing driver and engineer. His product was the only accessory for the Model T car and Model TT truck that was ever approved by Henry Ford, and was even included in the official parts catalog. It was installed inside the rear differential and provided a lower gear for hills and heavy hauling, thus the ability of the truck in the display to climb the steep ramp. In combination with the standard transmission, it provided a total of four forward and two reverse gears.

Additional Resources:

From the Model T Ford Fix website, by Royce Peterson:
The Ruckstell Two Speed Axle Part 1 — https://modeltfordfix.com/the-ruckstell-two-speed-axle/
The Ruckstell Two Speed Axle Part 2 — https://modeltfordfix.com/the-ruckstell-two-speed-axle-part-2/

From the Chaffin's Garage website, specializing in Model T Ford Parts:
The Ruckstell Axle — https://www.chaffinsgarage.com/l-z/ruckstell.htm

Matthews Family Reunion Photo June 27, 2010