[Bob Moseley (RIP)]

Hi Darrin - the non-switch guard plate was in the early Carriers and yours, #1864 a 1941 Ford manufacture, would have this type of plate. Obviously there must have been a problem with the switches being damaged when the crew dismounted and by the time they manufactured the 2pdr Carriers, April -October 1942, the switch guard was in place. The non-guard plates had the switch function stamped into the plate. I've attached images of both types. The early one I restored in 2004 and that is adorning a Carrier in Victoria, whilst the 2pdr plate I restored this year and it is fitted to a 2pdr Carrier in NSW. This one was converted to 12v hence the additional wiring.

There is also an image of how the instrument cluster is fixed to the plate. The cluster is inserted through the rear with just the bezel protruding through to the front. You may also notice the difference in the speedometer face. My reaearch has indicated that all Carriers had the 60mph non-gear quadrant brown face. Some images I have seen appear to have the gear quadrants painted out at the time of manufacture of the Carrier.

You may have some difficulty obtaining the power outlet and ignition switch, but I have a couple of contacts who may be able to help in that department.

Coincidently, I just picked up another plate with the guard through Ebay and am looking forward to building it up for another Carrier.

Bob