"Black-Walnut Cracker made from a Model A Steering Gear"

[Frodbran]

No, I don't have one.
However, I did _see_ one, 30-some years ago, at my uncle's rural property in the SE corner of Missouri.
My father and I were visiting and he took us out to his shed to show us his latest acquisition, a black-walnut cracker he said was made out of a "Model A Steering Gear", as I only dimly recall.
Of course as a mere 40-something youngster, I wasn't paying nearly enough attention. Now, I'm closing in on my uncle's age, and living on a property that is hip-deep in black walnuts, and I'm rueing my inattention.
So, forgive me. It's a long-shot for sure that any of you had an uncle who had one and paid attention while he demonstrated it, but I figure it's less of a long-shot to ask:

"If someone walked up to you and said, 'Make me a black-walnut cracker out of a Model A steering gear, any kind, and I will give you .' can you even envision what she may be talking about/how it could be done?"

I think I recall that the gear may have been mounted in its gearbox which might have been cut-away to allow a nut to be inserted.


(I apologize for polluting your forum by bringing up reports of Model A parts being DESTROYED for other uses, but "Blame Ryan; he let me have an account!")


Thank you. I've wanted a Model A since the day I first rode in my (other) uncle's, but time is running out for me to own one. For one thing, I can't afford a place to keep one properly. I am thrilled however to find a community such as yours dedicated to keeping them and keeping them up. Thank you for that too.
--
David