"Balls to the walls"

Posted by Sluicejockey on July 15, 2005

"Balls to the walls"- I can't believe the WWII aircraft joystick explanation; pushing a joystick forward would be the steepest dive possible.
What is more likely is another possible origin: speed governor balls, especially as it relates to steam powered vehicles, but also power generating units. When the balls are fully extended, ie to the walls, maximum speed is experienced.