How to lock Cowl vent with dash radio installed
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Junior User
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 78
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From: Davis, Ca
How to lock Cowl vent with dash radio installed
I'm installing a new radio/cd in the middle on my'56 dash. The radio will block the cowl vent operation handle. I won't need the vent because it has Air. I don't want to weld the vent close but how do I secure the vent so it doesn't leak.
Postmaster
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 4,190
Likes: 2
From: Riverside, So Cal
The PO (previous owner) of my 56 did the same thing. He removed the handle and bent the bracket over, then secured the cowl vent with silicone sealer to keep the rain out. It worked fine to keep things dry.
If I wanted the same thing you do, I would also use the silicone sealer, but I would remove the bracket assy and just leave the cowl vent and its arms in the hole.
If I wanted the same thing you do, I would also use the silicone sealer, but I would remove the bracket assy and just leave the cowl vent and its arms in the hole.
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 587
Likes: 0
From: Augusta, ME
You could also install an electric cowl vent motor, eliminating the handle but still have an operable cowl vent with the flip of a switch. The cowl vent is still nice to have on those days that aren't warm enough for a/c yet.
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 587
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From: Augusta, ME
I bought this unit: cowl vent motor
It is used to open/close cowl vents, glove boxes, gas doors, etc. It lists for $59 at this company, but I got mine from a now out-of-business company for half that (maybe why they went out of business?)
I did see that Classic Auto Parts in OK City has one specifically for cowl vents that was around $90: classic cowl vent
The unit I used, I completely removed the old handle (not used anymore) and mounted the linkage to the vent assembly and to a brace on the cab near the vent opening. I had to get a longer threaded rod for it to all work out, and it took a couple of evenings of cussin' and drinkin' to get it lined out, but I now flip a toggle up and the vent opens, toggle down and it closes.
It is used to open/close cowl vents, glove boxes, gas doors, etc. It lists for $59 at this company, but I got mine from a now out-of-business company for half that (maybe why they went out of business?)
I did see that Classic Auto Parts in OK City has one specifically for cowl vents that was around $90: classic cowl vent
The unit I used, I completely removed the old handle (not used anymore) and mounted the linkage to the vent assembly and to a brace on the cab near the vent opening. I had to get a longer threaded rod for it to all work out, and it took a couple of evenings of cussin' and drinkin' to get it lined out, but I now flip a toggle up and the vent opens, toggle down and it closes.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 1,622
Likes: 3
From: okla
I have an electric cowl vent motor on my 53. It is wonderful on those cool mornings and also when the cab is really hot from setting in the sun it will help move the hot air out so the A/C can do it's job.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 4,489
Likes: 5
From: Valley Center, CA
I bought the electric unit kit from Sacramento Vintage Ford for my 54. I wanted to install the Rod Doors system under the dash, but I could not use the vent handle. It is very cool to watch the look on people's face when the vent raises and lowers. 
Good luck, Jag
Good luck, Jag
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Posting Guru
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 1,734
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From: Kansas City area
I have purchased items from Rocky Hinge Co. which have always been good quality. He offers a power cowl vent setup for $80. I have not used it but plan to on my next project. www.rockyhinge.com
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