What is a Columbia 2 speed rear end?

Columbia two-speed rears. The Columbia two-speed offered a low gear ratio for low-speed pulling power and fast acceleration from a dead stop. It could then be shifted into a higher ratio on the fly to give the vehicle a smoother and more efficient ride for highway speeds.

How do I identify my Ford rear differential?

The model number is located on the top right hand corner of the tag, J210-S, for example. Locate the identification tag on Ford manufactured rear end units. According to Fordification.com, the tag is located on the driver’s side of the unit, mounted vertically, facing the front of the vehicle.

How does a 2 speed rear end work?

The 2-speed axle works on the same basic principles, but with an added planetary gear set inside the ring gear. This works by sliding a clutch gear meshing with the high range clutch plate. When the low range is selected, the sliding clutch gear engages with the low range clutch plate.

What is a two-speed diff?

The dual-ratio differential is exactly what its name suggests: the rear differential provides two different gear ratios: a shorter one for maximum tractive force for faster acceleration or steep grade-climbing capability, and a taller one for quiet, fast highway cruising (the Columbia two-speed axle was said to be able …

What is a multi speed rear axle?

On many vehicles, multi-speed rear axles and auxiliary transmissions are used to provide extra gears. They are usually controlled by a selector knob on the gearshift lever.

When did the Columbia two speed rear axle come out?

One of the really trick aftermarket options offered for early Fords was the Columbia two-speed rear axle. One of several overdrives to appear in the late 1920s, it had great success after Ford began offering it as a factory option.

Who is Columbia 2 speed parts, LLC?

Columbia Two Speed Parts, LLC. Please do not ship to us without calling first to get our new Ship-To address!

How does the two speed ratio work on a Columbia?

A cable-operated activation switch was installed on the dash to engage the two-speed unit. Similar to an electric overdrive, the Columbia’s second speed or ratio was not activated until the car was already rolling.

What kind of engine did the Ford Columbia have?

Ford first offered it as a conversion for their 1934 models; it was later offered as a factory-option on the 1937-’41 V-12-powered Lincoln Zephyrs, Continentals and Custom models, and 1939-’41 Mercurys and Fords with the flathead V-8. The Columbia two-speed offered a low gear ratio for low-speed pulling power and fast acceleration from a dead stop.