Unknown Mechanical Part? Military?

[MilitariaCollector]

Does anyone know what this item is and when it dates from? I?m fairly certain it is a US military component. In basic appearance, it is a round pull knob on a 2 foot braided metal cable that is wound on a spring loaded pulley with a square drive lug. It reminds me of a starter rope rewind assy for a lawnmower, so perhaps it is for a small portable military generator or something similar. Any help is appreciated!

 

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[Dougie Webb]

reminds me of a starter rope rewind assy for a lawnmower, so perhaps it is for a small portable military generator or something similar. Any help is appreciated

Pretty neat! I'd say you were real close if not right on the money with your assessment. See the attached image.

 

[ArfieBoy]

Interesting. I'll be watching for a positive I.D. here. Thanks for posting.

 

[bradyboy]

choke

 

[MilitariaCollector]

Since the knob was round, I initially thought it could be a choke/throttle component too, as many small engine starter ropes have a T-handle. However, the choke/throttle cable components I am typically familiar with have a solid metal cable in a flexible metal sheath. They also do not self-retract with a spring. Since this retracts with a spring loaded pulley and has a square drive lug, I think it perhaps is something else.

 

[islamoradamark]

It does have that green O.D. look