Vintage Thunderbird Club International

I think the finish, should match the vinyl grain on your armrests, as closely as possible.
They do butt against one another.
Jerry

Google low pressure brake switch. They are available. I have one on my hotrod. It works fine.
It doesn't take much gunk in the system, to make it malfunction.
The mechanical switch, is probably the best way to go.

Jerry

My condolences, to the Baumgartner family, and the Thunderbird community.
Don't cry, because he is gone, Smile, because he was here,
Jerry

Not positive, but I think the new "breakaway" steering wheel, was a safety item. Nascar builders, adopted this steering wheel and used it for many years.

I had a similar problem, trying to install an aftermarket steering wheel on my 56 Bird. After trying several adapters, all were too tight. I used a small 3 sided needle file, and carefully opened up the spline for a perfect slip fit. The adapter is die cast aluminum. The spline in your wheel, is mos...

I've had lots of cars, over the years. All used. Many were worked on by many different people. I "never" trust a dipstick reading, on a new purchase. Over the years, dipsticks get changed, sometimes for one that is similar, but deemed close enough, by whoever decided to use it. Sometimes, ...

I hope that you are a young man, because, projects like this one, will make you really old, really quick.
You obviously have the skill to do this work. Good luck.
"MoJerry"

Good evening,
Perhaps, some stiff grease, will hold the ball to the spring, long enough to get the lever on.
I would not think it grease would do any harm, to the transmission. Just a thought.
Good luck.
Regards, Jerry

Try CON2R, they say they will build you a steering wheel, any way you want it.

I have received both of mine, my wife, just got her first.
Likewise, we are very cautious, but "hopeful".
"Mojerry"

I agree, but please remember, we're not out of the woods yet. Continue to wear masks in crowds and continue social distancing.
Everyone, "be safe".
Jerry

You also, hit a homerun, in the fact that it is a late style. That is, ,it's a late production 56-57 top.
They made some significant, improvements , in the top bows.
Jerry

I would install a right side mirror, and fit it with a convex mirror.
It will give a distorted image, but, you will know if someone is in your blind spot.

I, also, would like to replace the stock steering wheel, on my 56. I have purchased a wheel, that I like. However, I've acquired three different adapters, all specified, for my car. None of them will fit my steering shaft. The spline count seems to be the same, but they will only go on about a 1/4&q...

You've received some good advice, about your radiator problem. I worked as a radiator repairman, for more than fifteen years. I can say from experience, "Stop Leak" type products are bad for your cooling system, especially the heater core. The heater is of a "cellular" constructi...