the curb feelers were one long springy thing sticking out..
i gues they ARE still available!! http://www.shrunkenheads.com/Products/Car_Accessories/Curb_Feelers.htm
A.K.A. "Mechanical Proximity Warning Device"
"In the 1950's, cars were often equipped with curb feelers, a spring or flexible wire that would make a noise if it contacted a curb. This would signal the driver in time to avoid damaging the wheels or hubcaps"
aND EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE ILLEGAL THEY ARE STILL AVAILABLE:
A.K.A. "NECKING KNOBS" BECAUSE YOU COULD DRIVE WITH ONE HAND AND THE OTHER HAND COULD BE....WELL.., NEVER MIND...
http://www.shrunkenheads.com/Products/Car_Accessories/knobs/Brody_Index.htm
tHERE ARE THREE STATES WHERE IT IS ILLEGAL TO POSESS PET FERRETS,
but you can still get ferret food, shampoo, toys, houses, etc.