Did Ford have a column in the 57 that incorporated the turn signals inside the column or was the chrome switch that went on the outside of the column the only switch available?

Can anyone direct me to a picture if it exists?

Charles in Pensacola

 

My 57 has the turn signals in the steering column. Sorry, I don't have any pictures for it.

 

Charles,
Turn signals were optional on the '57. Here is a picture, though it is not the greatest of pictures: http://www.f100.com/5766Shop/index.htm
Click on "Switches, Turn signal, 57-60"

The switch assembly bolts into the column under the steering wheel. The "C" ring in the picture is the turn signal canceler.

The chrome one you described is an aftermarket add on (probably a signal-stat).

Hope this helps you.

 

Kenny,

How rare is it to find the turn signal column?

Is the column different or can you put the switch on any 57 - 60 column?

Do I need anything other than what is shown in John's catalog?

I guess you would have to modify the wiring harness front and rear to acomodate the turn signal circuit.

Thanks Charles

 

Charles,
The '57-'60 F-series columns were all the same. They just didn't put the switches in them.
The turn signal kit from John's should have everything you need. I believe it also comes with the "Harness" that runs down the side of the steering column, but not the black rubber/plastic tubing that covers the wiring. (the black rubber/plastic tubing looks like the same sleeving they put over the chains on swing sets, but smaller dia.).
Just to note: If you are looking to keep original appearance, the turn signal handle that comes with the kit is like the original except original lever would have been painted black and not chromed. Also, the round **** at the end of the reproduction levers are not like the original. The original would have had a sphear shaped **** (black for '57-'58).
Hope this helps you.

 

These turn signals show up on E-Bay quite often, usually as used but sometimes as NOS.