The Story Behind the Moylan Arrow: A Small but Genius Ford Invention

The Story Behind the Moylan Arrow: A Small but Genius Ford Invention

Posted on February 17, 2025

Modern vehicles are packed with features that make driving more convenient, but some innovations are so seamlessly integrated into our experience that we rarely think about their origins. One such feature is the small gas tank indicator arrow—also known as the Moylan Arrow—that points to the side of the vehicle where the gas tank filler is located. While many drivers have benefitted from this simple yet practical invention, few know it was the brainchild of a Ford engineer.

In a recent episode of "Ted Talks," Ford’s Archives and Heritage Brand Manager Ted Ryan shed light on the Moylan Arrow’s origins. The story dates back to former Ford engineer Jim Moylan, who was frustrated by the lack of a clear way to determine which side of the car the gas tank was on. Inspired to solve this common problem, Moylan sketched a small arrow on the fuel gauge and submitted the idea to Ford’s internal suggestion system, asking, “Wouldn’t it be great if you always knew what side of the car the gas tank was on?”

Ford executives immediately saw the brilliance of Moylan’s idea and wasted no time incorporating it into their production vehicles. The Moylan Arrow quickly became a standard feature across Ford’s lineup and proved so practical that other automakers followed suit. Today, this small but significant detail is nearly universal, saving countless drivers the hassle of pulling up to the wrong side of the gas pump.

This story is a testament to the power of simple ideas and their ability to make everyday life easier. The Moylan Arrow may seem minor compared to other automotive advancements, but it reflects Ford’s legacy of innovation and commitment to practical solutions. Thanks to Jim Moylan’s ingenuity, drivers worldwide enjoy a feature that eliminates guesswork and adds a touch of convenience to every refueling stop.