Heck yeah, a dealer good or would ad accessories to a Model-A. Depending on what was available or the customer wanted. I think I read once that Henry had no qualms about his dealers selling after market "accessories", that's add-ons not replacement parts for the up keep of the vehicle, that was a no-no. As far as the rod coming out of the cowl I would say it is for an accessory cowl light arm or such.
Bob-A
