Description
General Electric 60-Inch Anti-Aircraft Searchlight Steering Spindle Assembly, P/N 4976655-G1
Item Overview
This military-surplus spindle and steering-knuckle assembly was made for the wheeled chassis of a General Electric 60-inch anti-aircraft searchlight. Its markings associate it with the World War II Model 1942 or 1942A searchlight family. The circled “R” and matching cast marking indicate that this is probably the right-hand version. It is a mechanical chassis component and is not part of the lamp, electrical system, or aiming mechanism.
Identification and Features
The identification is based on the original tag, crate markings, part number, and the assembly’s heavy steering-chassis construction. The surviving federal catalog record no longer provides an item name, but the markings identify the equipment family and describe the part as a spindle assembly.
- Item: Steering spindle and knuckle assembly
- Part or drawing number: 4976655-G1
- Original Federal Stock Number: 6230-428-9130
- Later NSN form: 6230-00-428-9130
- Equipment: General Electric 60-inch anti-aircraft searchlight
- Probable model family: Model 1942 or 1942A
- Probable orientation: Right-hand
- Construction: Heavy metal spindle, pivot housing, and steering arm
- Status: Inert mechanical chassis component
How the Spindle Assembly Worked
The long spindle shaft supported the searchlight chassis wheel hub and its bearings. Its curved arm connected with the steering linkage, while the center housing pivoted on the chassis. Movement through the linkage turned the spindle and wheel, allowing the large four-wheel searchlight carriage to be guided while it was moved or towed. This assembly supported part of the searchlight’s weight while also providing a steering point.
Searchlight Chassis Application
General Electric’s Model 1942 searchlight was mounted on a chassis carried by four rubber-tired wheels. Corner jacks steadied the unit after it reached its operating position. The wheeled arrangement allowed crews to place the searchlight where its beam could cover an assigned area, then connect it to a control station and portable power plant. This spindle belonged to that mobility system rather than the rotating searchlight base above it.
History of the 60-Inch Searchlight
The 60-inch anti-aircraft searchlight used a powerful carbon arc and a large reflector to project a concentrated beam into the night sky. During World War II, searchlight crews worked with sound locators, radar stations, antiaircraft guns, and fighter-control units. Once a target was detected, one or more lights could illuminate it so gunners and observers could follow its movement. These lights also protected coastlines, cities, military bases, industrial areas, and field positions.
History of Use
Searchlight units served in the United States and overseas during World War II. Crews transported the searchlight, generator, control equipment, cables, spare carbon rods, and maintenance tools between prepared or field positions. They practiced fast setup, remote aiming, target tracking, and equipment care. Searchlights also supported harbor defense and battlefield operations, where reliable wheels and steering parts were important for moving the heavy equipment over roads and rough ground.
Stock Number and Packaging History
The crate is marked with Federal Stock Number 6230-428-9130, which converts to the later 13-digit form 6230-00-428-9130. Because the 11-digit federal numbering system was introduced after World War II, this marking most likely represents postwar depot storage or repackaging of a spare for wartime equipment. It should not be treated as proof of the assembly’s manufacturing date.
Identification Limits
The equipment association and steering function are supported by the tag, crate stencil, construction, and documented four-wheel chassis. The right-hand identification is probable because of the “R” markings. A surviving General Electric parts catalog, such as TM 5-7046 or TM 5-7112, would be needed to prove the exact model range and original parts-list nomenclature.
Condition
This is a vintage military-surplus chassis component that may show oxidation, old grease, scratches, worn paint, storage residue, pitting, and other signs of age or handling. Markings and minor details may vary. This listing is for the spindle assembly only; the wheel, hub, bearings, steering linkage, chassis, and searchlight are not included unless specifically stated.
Ideal For
This unusual component is well suited for collectors, museums, restorers, and researchers interested in World War II searchlights and mobile antiaircraft equipment.
- General Electric searchlight restoration
- World War II antiaircraft collections
- Searchlight chassis research
- Military vehicle and equipment exhibits
- Army engineering and air-defense displays
- Historic mechanical-component collections
Approx length 11", Approx width 9", Approx height 7", Approx weight 6.1lbs.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item’s general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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