888 South Maurine Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401
I have always respected those interested in the restoration of
antiques. I believe these are the people who want to maintain a
part of the old heritage, and can appreciate the hard times of our
ancestors.
I have always had the desire for collecting antiques that I can
afford, and managed to restore a 1929 Model A Ford pickup in 1985.
When I visited the Sacramento State Fair a couple of years ago I
got to see a large number of restored engines that kindled my
Interest in rebuilding one for myself.
In conveying the interest to my father-in-law ‘Buck’
Spevak, of Rupert, Idaho, he volunteered a Model 92 single cylinder
Maytag that had been stored in his tool shed. This engine was part
of the Maytag washer his parents had purchased in 1936, and had
served their family very well until it was retired to the corner of
the shed, where it spent many years collecting dirt and cobwebs. I
wrapped the grease covered engine in burlap and set off for my home
to try to give this engine a second life, extending its own
history. Since I didn’t know much about the engine I contacted
my good friend Ira House from Shelly, Idaho, who has restored
several engines of his own. He was kind enough to provide me with a
Maytag service manual, and gave me much needed encouragement.
After much degreasing, cleaning, and inspection, I found that it
wasn’t going to require much to put it back to its original
state.
I proceeded to have one hold down leg welded by Engine Machine
Welding of Idaho Falls, Idaho. Then I bought the required engine
components from vendors who advertise in this magazine: Unique Wood
& Metal Products, and Simpson Motors. I also bought a new oak
skid kit from Robert Alberts.
After much sanding, final cleaning and painting, I began
reassembling the engine. This didn’t take long with attention
only to the ignition and carburetion systems. Since the engine had
not run for many years, it was hard to get started the first time,
but it now kicks off with very little trouble. I found it very
gratifying to complete the task, and now I have another piece of
history that I can listen to ‘POP’ away!
My next engine adventure is to begin the rebuilding of a
Fairbanks Morse Jack Junior which I acquired from a past employer
near Grand Coulee, Washington. If any of you readers have any
information or suggestions pertaining to this particular engine, I
would appreciate your input.
