All the information used in this study was taken directly from the Ford Service Bulletins, the Ford Service Letters, The Ford Parts Price Lists, and the Ford Part Releases which came from the Benson Ford Research Center and Archives in Dearborn, Michigan.

There were three (3) known types of A-4513, Universal joint housing caps—inner; four (4) known types of A-4520, Universal joint housing caps—outer assemblies (not to mention all the variations within); and five (5) known types of Transmission main shaft bearing retainers.

The initial purpose of the Universal joint housing cap assemblies were two-fold.  First it was to guard and shield the Universal joint from becoming damaged.  The second item was to help stabilize in place the Brake Cross Shaft Assemblies, right and left, for the early service brake system.  When the arms were discontinued the assembly was for guarding the Universal joint.

The purpose of the Transmission main shaft bearing retainer was also two-fold.  First it served as a retainer for the small rear bearing in the transmission.  Second, it was also used to attach the Universal joint housing caps—inner and outer with six bolts, nuts and cotter keys.  The Transmission main shaft bearing retainer was installed upon the completion of the transmission.  The transmission was then installed onto the completed engine and clutch prior to the shipment to the various assembly plants to be installed into the chassis at time of assembly of the car or truck.

Most of the data is represented by the major and minor changes that occurred on the part.  These changes are described and will make it easier for the restorer to put the right combination onto whatever vehicle it is they are restoring at a certain point in time. 

When viewing this study, please remember that the data is represented by original Ford data.  All dates represented in this study are those dates represented by the part release dates from the individual part data sheets, not production dates.  This study should not reflect on the information and data in the MARC/MAFCA Judging Standards and Restoration Guidelines.

If restoring a car or truck for judging purposes in a MARC or MAFCA sanctioned meet, always follow the MARC/MAFCA Judging Standards.

I would like to thank the following people who have contributed to the study: Perry Baxter, Jack Burke, Steve Ciccalone, Clem Clement, Tim Cunningham, Dean Drenzek, Vince Falter, Fred Gooding, Willie Harms, Tim Mattice, Ron Rude, John Stone, Marco Tahtaras, Terry Oberer, Thomas Wesenberg, Richard Whalen, and Neil Wilson.  Thank you.

If you see anything that is questionable or if you find something new to add to the study, please let me know by contacting me at steve@plucks329s.org

Thanks.

Steve