Throttle control rod length curiosity

[my mostly 36 coupe]

My car came with the shorter control rod pictured (black) that measured 10.125 from socket to socket. The new one measures 10.5 as I believe it should. I think Ford changed the length again in 39 to 10.75. So, I'm just wondering where this shorter rod came from? I get a much better return to idle with the newer rod which is why I replaced it.

 

[Don Rogers]

Mostly, You are not quite there yet. Your black throttle rod was probably a 50-9747 (1935-36 Pickup/panel delivery) and your new one is closest to a 99A-9747. Your 36 Ford passenger car originally used a 48-9747 rod with an "A" dimension of 10.75" I have enclosed a throttle rod chart that I made from drawings acquired at the Benson Ford Research Center. I hope the drawing helps to explain the differences.

 

[my mostly 36 coupe]

That's really cool. Thanks Don. Yea, I was measuring from the "B" dimension. Ive' no need to quibble over .030" with the new one. I didn't measure with a caliper anyway so it could be right on the money. This forum of V8'ers is awesome.