Below are pictures of my Edson portable diaphragm pump. The engine appears to be a copy of the Fuller & Johnson pump engine of 1909. However, the magneto and the pump drive system are entirely different.
The book The Fuller & Johnson Story II by Verne Kindschi shows the pump but does not mention any patent infringement.
I have found that the Edson was not built until after 1917. I also discovered that some parts are still available from Edson International, located in New Bedford, Mass.
The unit is made portable simply by pulling the hitch over so as to be parallel to the ground. At this point only the wheels contact the ground and away you go!
I am very grateful for the Edson pictures in the Fuller & Johnson book, as my unit when found had no wheels and only part of the frame.
The engine starts easily, runs well and the pump works as it should. This unit has been a big attraction at the Pageant of Steam in Canandaigua, N.Y., as well as other nearby shows.
Paul Luckman, Walworth, N.Y.
Please send your questions and comments for Flywheel Forum to associate editor Beth Beavers at Gas Engine Magazine, 1503 S.W. 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609-1265; or email bbeavers@gasenginemagazine.com.
