what does flew out of gear like a Model-T Ford mean

It's your turn now. Google gear Model T Ford.

The phrase "flew out of gear like a Model-T Ford" is a simile that is used to describe something that suddenly loses control or goes out of order. It is often used to depict a situation where something rapidly shifts or disengages unexpectedly.

To understand the meaning behind this simile, it helps to know a bit about the Model-T Ford, which was one of the first mass-produced automobiles in the early 20th century. The Model-T Ford had a manual transmission system, wherein the driver had to manually shift gears using the clutch pedal and a gear lever. Occasionally, due to mechanical issues or improper handling, the gears could disengage abruptly, causing the car to lose power or become difficult to control.

So, when someone says that something "flew out of gear like a Model-T Ford," it suggests that the subject experienced a sudden and uncontrolled shift, comparable to how the gears of a Model-T Ford may disengage unexpectedly.

It's worth noting that this simile is based on the assumption that the person you're speaking to has some knowledge about the Model-T Ford and its manual transmission system.