mysterious switch under dash of 47 New Yorker

[Harvie]

Hello all, I just got a 1947 Chrysler New Yorker 4 dr sedan - I am very happy with it and I have the shop manual etc. There is a switch under the dash that I can't identify the function of. I shall try to attach pictures - can anyone tell me what it is for please?

[Plymouthy Adams]

if just right of the column, this may be for intensity of dash lights....low/high

[Harvie]

Sorry, just trying to get the hang of posting a picture here. While I try to figure it out I shall describe it. It is a chrome plated switch about two inches long - not a toggle - but it sticks down vertically and is knurled at the end. I don't want to try to pull it or push it or twist it until I know what I am doing for fear of breaking it.

[Harvie]

My posting crossed with your reply - it is actually to the left of the steering column - I though that it might be a panel dimmer - is it operated by twisting it?

[Harvie]

[Dodgeb4ya]

Trip meter knob...

[dpollo]

It is indeed the knob for resetting the trip odometer as Dodge b4ya says.

[Plymouthy Adams]

I just removed one of these mounted cable assemblies from a German car I have here and heat freed it up so to be usable again....some things just do not need exacting tolerances...

[Bryan]

Mine has a little plastic black knob the same shape as the dash knobs. My father probably got tired of poking his leg on it. Would have got around to asking what it was.

[Harvie]

Thank you all very much indeed. In order to activate the trip meter do I push this switch or twist it? I want to make sure that I don't damage it. Thanks again for all of your time and excellent information.

[casper50]

Don't know on this one but most of the 60's cars you had to pull, in your case down and twist.

[Dodgeb4ya]

I think you push up and twist.

You won't hurt it.

Just be warned the odometer and trip meter wheels if they do not line up means the gears are probably damaged or broken....

1946-48 chryslers have this common issue.....I don't know who can repair the pot metal gears in the odometer.

[bob westphal]

The switch is an off & on dash light switch according to the manual. It also had the same function when I rewired my P15.