Hot Rods WHat is this?

I have just bought a 58 Plymouth Belvedere conv that was modified in the sixties for drag racing. The car is largely unmolested, with some period modifications like fenderwell headers, four speed trans behind a very healthy 64 383, SW gauges, buckets and other small stuff. In the engine compartment I found this control unit, and don't really know what is for. Any help here?

 

Looks like an RPM limiter

 

maybe this?

http://www.google.com/patents/US3572302

 

Yes, rpm limiters...Not very dependable..i.e., stopped working really quick..

 

show the car....damit.....

 

^^ ditto damn it

 

will start a thread soon....

 

My 429 Cobra jet came with a factory installed version of one of these things. The first time I took it to the drags I bypassed it. Drove home on 7 cylinders as one of the pushrods jumped out of the lifter. I guess Ford knew the limitations of the valve train.