47-55.1 Anyone add an extension to Cowl Vent handle?

[vintovka]

Since adding instrumentation to area below my dash its really hard for me to reach and operate the cowl vent handle. I thought i left enough room but it seems the factory handle is too short and my arms aren't long enough. Thinking of adding and extension but can't get the factory knob off and would like to retain it. Any clues to both questions?

[nvrdone]

chevys of the 40's show the knob

CHEVROLET Cowl Vent Knob -Side Or Top , Maroon
3682916a-47 / 53
7.00 ea
I had the same problem when I added under dash a/c

[vintovka]

Originally Posted by nvrdone

chevys of the 40's show the knob

CHEVROLET Cowl Vent Knob -Side Or Top , Maroon
3682916a-47 / 53
7.00 ea
I had the same problem when I added under dash a/c

On 54-55-1 knob is black. Would like to save it if possible. Curious did you extend lever out and destroy knob in process?

[nvrdone]

actually, I got a lever with the knob on it at a swap meet. cut the knob off one, drilled holes at the length I wanted and bolted it together

[vintovka]

Is the knob pinned on? also i want to lenghten it about 3"

[nvrdone]

I think the knob is glued on. when I got my replacement knob there was no pin so I used gorilla glue. its held up very well

[joedoh]

none of mine ever had a knob, hard knock lives I guess.

when the cowl vent mechanism is stuck with rust after years of sitting, I squirt it all down with penetrant and use an 18" long piece of square tube over the metal part of the handle. this has only failed me one time, so I can see how an extension would work for you. not only could you reach it easier it would take less effort.

if you made it extend, like you pull the knob toward you and then ratchet it down, then it retracts, that would keep it out of your way.

[jweb]

With all of the electronics you have in your truck why not add an actuator or servo motor to control the cowl vent. I think a power vent would be pretty cool, they're hard to reach on any of these trucks while driving.

[vintovka]

Originally Posted by jweb

With all of the electronics you have in your truck why not add an actuator or servo motor to control the cowl vent. I think a power vent would be pretty cool, they're hard to reach on any of these trucks while driving.

Great minds think alike!!! Would be the best deal ever. I wish i still had the ability to do that. Lucky i can get under there and drill two holes and bolt on an extension. Think I will try a curved or L shaped extension that allow better access. Very tough to reach when trying to close a fully opened vent. (especially at 60).

[65blackfleetside]

there is a company out there that already makes the power motor actuator for this purpose. I have saw it a while back out there on the internet somewhere?

[jweb]

Originally Posted by 65blackfleetside

there is a company out there that already makes the power motor actuator for this purpose. I have saw it a while back out there on the internet somewhere?

Maybe this is it? Not sure who makes it
https://www.classicindustries.com/pr...ts/t70793.html

[solidaxel]

Originally Posted by 65blackfleetside

there is a company out there that already makes the power motor actuator for this purpose. I have saw it a while back out there on the internet somewhere?

Rockyhingeco makes one also
I have them on all of my AD's

[vintovka]

I looked at all the power options and they all have one thing in common. Not waterproof. While not an issue in cab munted on firewall the moisture issue is concerning due to being near the beach 24/7. Its 90% humidty right now and never gets below 60.

The original knob on mine had to be destroyed to be removed. I did not want to as its been there now over 50 years of my life and touched/used by many of my long long relatives. Had to cut it in almost in half an pry it off. No sign of glue and I think they put knob when vent arm was heated and it formed a rock hard connection.


In any case i roughed out an "extension" with a knob. It adds about 2" and ACTUALLY works (for me). I now can easily see and operate it when closed and reach it when open (without swerving head on into a log truck). Mine interior is far for original so it kinda fits in. Added pics to last page of link below.