Remember the song Over the River and Through the Woods to
Grandmother’s House We Go etc well, it’s that time
again November with Thanksgiving and December with Christmas.
Carols will soon be consuming the song time on radio, TV, churches,
programs and records I think it is wonderful the different seasons
we have and the many traditions we practice enjoy them, get the
Christmas Spirit and keep it with you all year. Praise God for all
the many wonderful blessings we can enjoy I don’t believe any
of us are thankful enough. Well, on to the letters that make Smoke
rings so readable.
We’ll start off with an informative letter from BOB JESSUP,
5613 Elon Drive, Orlando, Florida 32808: ‘I notice many people
write in asking for information on Silver King tractors. All they
need to do is write the company. The name has been changed to
Plymouth Locomotive Works, but still receive mail as Late Root
Heath. There are a lot of Plymouth locomotives operating in the
phosphate mines near here.’ (Thanks Bob, I’m sure these
folks will appreciate this tip.)
HERMAN PEARL, Louisville, Kentucky 40215 just sent a note to
thank us for a very nice informative magazine, says it is just
great and he looks forward to each issue. ‘The reminder
envelope in the last issue to renew is just great that way we screw
driver pushers don’t forget to renew. Keep up the good
publishing.’
EDDIE TURNER, Route 2, Box 279-B, Pamplico, South Carolina 29583
sends this letter and is waiting for your answers: ‘I need some
help. I would like some information on an engine I just acquired.
First who made it, what year was it made, what is the right colors
for it and what is the horsepower and RPM?
The engine is in very good shape, and I am going to restore it.
There is no nameplate on it, so any information on it would be
appreciated.
I will try to describe it for you: the magneto is an American
Bosch type 1922, next there is a number on the end of the
crankshaft 57114. Is this the serial number? There is also a number
on the connecting rod N-6, and a number on the exhaust valve,
rocker arm N-28. The bore is 4′ and the stroke is 5′. The
color is green.’
DON BIEWER, Route 1, Box 87, Barnesville, Minnesota 56514 has
been a collector for a number of years and recently purchased a
Massey Harris No. 21 combine and would like to correspond with
someone about them. His is galvanized rather than red, which leads
him to believe it may be the first year they were made. Any
comments? He says no serial number anywhere and the parts book
reads they could have come out on steel wheels. If anyone has
information other than what is stated in the Grain Harvester’s
book, he would appreciate hearing from you.
A subscriber for one year and now feels like a member of the
family sends this account as ROBERT STEVENS, Box 165, Canton, Maine
04221 writes: ‘My problem is that I recently purchased an old
tractor which had been setting out under some pine trees for about
six years. It is a Plymouth, approximately 1934 made by Fate, Root,
Heath Co. of Plymouth, Ohio. They later made the Silver King
tractor for several years. The serial number is A212, presently on
rubber, but probably had steel on rear originally. The motor is a
Hercules 1XA four cylinder 3′ pistons with 4’ stroke.
I need information on spark plug gap, lubrication capacities,
year of manufacture, etc. I hope to have it running soon and plan
to show it at fairs, etc. I am keeping a picture record of progress
of restoration and would like to have it as authentic as possible.
Hope someone can tell me where to get copies of original
instructions. I’ll be waiting to hear from you.’
Another man has been bitten by the Gas Engine Bug, so move over,
fellas, give him room and help him get started. PAUL J. THOMAS,
JR., 675 Sedge field Street, SW., Concord, North Carolina 28025
writes: ‘I enjoy your magazine very much and especially the HOW
TO FIX articles. I have been around gas engines all my life, but
have just gotten interested in them recently. A year ago, my son
bought a McCormick Deering 3 HP to get me started and about six
months ago I bought three more engines. I have a 1 HP Economy, a 2
HP Stover and a Faultless engine. I do not know the horsepower of
the Faultless, but have been told it is anything from 6 to 9 HP. It
has a 10’ stroke and 5 5/8‘ bore.
Flywheels are 30′ x 2’ wide. The serial number is 44669 and
the only information on the tag, except name and manufacturer. I
would really appreciate any kind of news on this engine.
Keep up the good work and if you or any of your readers pass
through Concord, stop by and I will be glad to show these engine
and talk. Now that I have retired, I have plenty of time for that
and I have a lot to learn about these and all other old
engines.’ (Bet you will have a happy time with this hobby and
you’ll be able to enjoy it more fully now that you are
retired.)
Seeking some information on his tractor, the letter comes from
LON R. SHELL, Rt. 3, Box 83, San Marcos, Texas 78666: ‘I have
recently acquired a Cleveland Crawler tractor, serial #11865. It
has a Weidely engine model 40782. I would appreciate some help in
determining the year it was manufactured. I would also like to know
more about the engine was it a general purpose engine and used in
other applications. I appreciate your help.’
RALPH E. JOINES, Route 4, Box 284, Sparta, North Carolina 28675
sends a picture of his Titan International, 4 HP sideshaft, serial
#CA2834. He is interested in finding out the date it was made, how
many were made and any additional information. He would appreciate
hearing from anyone who has one of these engines.
A communication comes from PAUL A. HANSON, Route 1, 100 Carlson
Road, Moose Lake, Minnesota 55767: ‘Keep up the good work! I
enjoy your Gas Engine Magazine very much. I also find your Smoke
Rings very interesting.
Now, my problem is I have acquired two engines which I would
surely like some help with as to color and if anyone has any other
information when these engines were made. I would appreciate it
very much and will answer all letters. This is the information on
one: ‘Old Reliable’ Mandt engine, 2 HP, serial #A202493.
The American Cement Machine Co., Inc. Keokuk, Iowa U.S.A.
The other engine: ‘Lindsay Alamo’ type A built by Alamo
Engine Co., Hillsdale, Michiglan 1 HP, 600 RPM, serial
#96,483.’ (Watch the mail Paul, you’ll probably get some
letters to answer.)
RAYNARD SCHMIDT, R.R. 1, Vail, Iowa 51465, phone 712-677-2726
would like to share his picture of his Simpson Jumbo tractor with
you. This tractor was made in Azusa, California by Jumbo Steel
Products Company during the years 1946-1949. It has a 6 cylinder
Chrysler motor. This model B was manufactured in 1948. Would like
to know the number of these Simpson Jumbo tractors that were
produced.
Would enjoy hearing other owners or anyone having knowledge of
this tractor. I would also like to compliment you on a very fine
magazine.’
Next letter comes from LLOYD A. MERCHANT, 4310 Smith Road,
Dimondale, Michigan 48821: ‘I am enclosing a picture of my
father, James and my twin sons, Adam and Andrew, aboard a 1940 John
Deere H. The twins love to ride so I built them a safe place to
ride complete with seat belts.
I have enjoyed Smoke Rings for years and finally have a question
of my own. My 1927 John Deere D purchased near West Branch,
Michigan has U.S. 762 in a 2′ high white print on both sides of
the radiator. Was this owned by CCC camps, Conservation Department
or who? Would this number be on record somewhere with any history
on my tractor? The previous owner said the tractor came with the
farm and he knew nothing about it. May God be with you.’ (And
with you too, Lloyd. Thanks for writing and I hope you get your
answers.)
A lengthy writing comes from STEVEN A. LEE, Box 11, Weld, Maine
04285. He needs your help! ‘We enjoy your magazine very much
and are in need of some information. We have acquired a good
collection of old iron in only a couple of years and have a few
rare ones. The information I need is on a very rare marine engine,
built in our own Capitol City of Augusta, Maine. It is a Fifield,
built by the Fifield Brothers Builders, Augusta. There are no
casting numbers and no serial numbers. A very good machinist, by
the name of Ernest Hollowell, at 83 years can remember when the
company was in operation back in the early 20s, but has never seen
one of the engines. It is believed this type was built back in the
early 1890s.
This engine has an internal make and break ignition. The points
are hand-forged and a finger on the piston breaks then at t.d.c.
The gas enters the base and is transferred to a clapper valve and
back into the firing chamber. This valve has a wooden handle and
controls the rpm’s. The piston has two rings, one at the very
top and one at the bottom. A bronze connecting rod has a single
bolt and has no means of adjustment.
I would appreciate any information on this engine as I believe
it is the only one around this part of the country. I cannot seem
to get any information in this area and any data would be very
helpful.
I would also like to know about a 4 HP Cushman upright serial
#3280. It has a single flywheel and cone clutch. The mag is missing
so I am using a buzz coil and battery to run it. It has a brass
sparkplug called Sootless. I would like to know the manufacturing
data and original color. Thank you and keep up the good
work.’
RICHARD H. AUSTIN, Water Street, Box 21, Elizabethtown, New York
12932 is the owner of a Case tractor, size 10-18 HP, engine #39915,
4 cyl. cross motor. He would like to know the year this was
manufactured and any other information. He is waiting to hear from
you.
A picture and short notice comes from STANLEY MOE, 3843 CTH-V,
De Forest, Wisconsin 53532: ‘We enjoy the GEM every issue and
are sending a picture of our Avery tractor of which there are very
many around today. We farm and enjoy working with engines and
tractors and lots of yesteryear items we have collected over the
years. We would like to see the picture in your magazine and also
we hope to get more information on it, especially what year was it
made? That is our nephew, Kevin Moe on the tractor.’
An interesting letter regarding an item published in a previous
magazine comes from WARD L. STEPHENSON, Box 1053, Frankfort,
Michigan 49635: ‘In your July/August 1981 Smoke Rings
on pages 14 and 15 there is an article and a photo of a little
marvel that ‘runs like a champ’a two cycle, one cylinder
outboard motor. It is suggested about a 1910 manufacture date as it
is very primitive.
As the motor is stationary and has a rudder that hangs off
behind the prop, has a round flywheel with a starting knob and
other features that look familiar to me, I suggest that it could be
one of the very early models of the Elto outboard motor.
The ones that I was familiar with in the mid-1920s were two
cylinder. Yet they were stationary and steered with a rudder. They
had a flat, ‘square’ gasoline tank. There was a round
flywheel, with a recessed ‘disappearing’ starting knob.
The motor I knew best belonged to the Taylor family who lived on
Crane Island across from Orcas (across the mouth of West Sound Bay,
that is) on Orcas Island, one of 172 islands of the San Juan
Islands of Puget Sound, Washington. Also San Juan County.
This letter is delayed because since my brother-in-law who
subscribes to your magazine and loaned me this issue of your fine
magazine, I flew out to Orcas Island where the Class of 1931
celebrated the 50th Anniversary of our graduation from the Orcas
Island High School. All ten of us! Actually, 11 did graduate; the
largest class ever to that date. Seven girls and three boys. One
boy was killed in a lime quarry a month after graduation. And Edna
Taylor Red dick was there!
Those early Eltos were great working and fishing motors.
Absolutely dependable. They started easily, quickly, and without
fail, and ran year after year after year.’
DALE NICKERSON, Glasgow Road, Cassadaga, New York 14718 has a
question: ‘Does anyone out in Gas Engine Land have an 8 HP
McVicker automatic engine? I need a rubbing of the nameplate. The
mounting pin spacing is 4′ x 2′. It is one sweet running
engine, took some work to make her go, but well worth it.’
(Sounds just like a contented Gas Fan, wouldn’t you say
fellas?)
‘HELP! What is it?’ cries JAMES T. OSNES, 16420
Fillmore, R.R. 2, Brighton, Colorado 80601. He writes: ‘I
recently found this upright engine. It has no markings or casting
numbers that are visible. It is painted green with red flywheels
and gas tank. The water tank is galvanized. Flywheels are 14’ x
21/8‘ with a crowned face for belt, also
has pulley on side opposite of starting flywheel. Both flywheels
are spoked, but have a sheet metal insert that covers the spokes.
It is a hit and miss, plug-fired with a gear driven magneto, but
not original. It has a Fairbanks Morse ‘J’ magneto on it
now. It has a nickle plated float type updraft carb. The governor
is in the starting flywheel and the cam and pushrod are on the same
side. The mag runs off the other side and fires every revolution.
The valves are inverted in a chamber cast on the side of the
cylinder. There is a muffler that is part of the support for the
water tank. The whole engine plus water tank and supports are over
5 feet.
Also, I have an Associated Hired Man, 2 HP, serial #131898 and I
need to know the year and color.’
‘I would like the help of your magazine and its readers’
comments EDWARD C. JONES, 919 N. Hoosac Road, Williamstown, Maine
01267. He continues: ‘I recently purchased a 5 HP Majestic
engine (serial #152588). Looking back in past issues of ‘Gas
Engine Magazine’ I cannot seem to find any articles regarding
Majestic engines and the company which manufactured them National
Dairy Machine Company located in Goshen, Indiana. I would like to
know about the company, what year my engine was made, its original
color, size and location of gas tank.’
WALTER A. TAUBENECK, 4213 80th Street N.E., Marysville,
Washington 98270 writes us: ‘I would like to hear from someone
who has firsthand knowledge about the ‘Sterling’ crankless,
opposed piston, two stroke cycle, oil engine made for boat
propulsion.
I have a Canadian manufactured 5 HP F.M. ‘N’
throttle-governed, sparkplug ignition. This engine uses a
oscillating high tension mag for which I have never seen! Does
anyone out there know the make, size and style?’ (I know he is
waiting for the knowledgeable gas buffs to help himget those
letters on the way guys!)
While you are answering questions fellas, please keep the pen
out and see if you can help DONALD WEEKS, 1016 Sunset Road, West
Palm Beach, Florida 33401 as he asks: ‘I am an Industrial Arts
teacher and teach power mechanics (small engines). I have an Ideal
model #X8943, pat. June 29, 1920 by Ideal Power Lawn Mower Company.
It has two 12′ flywheels with a 30’ reel-type cutter head
and big roller underneath. It runs, but not very well. I would like
to know the following information:
1. Is the company still in business or was it bought out by
someone else?
2. What year was my mower made?
3. Is there an owner’s manual or instruction book
available?
4. What color was the cylinder and crankcase?
5. What color were different parts of the mower and
bed?
6. What type of air cleaner was on the carburetor?
7. What was the setting on the carburetor?
8. Were there any decals or lettering on it? If so, what did
it look like?
9. How were the main bearing and connecting rod lubricated?
Was there any oil put in the crankcase?
I am trying to restore this engine and mower to a like-new
condition to be used in my small engine class. Any information
would be helpful and very much appreciated.’
HENRY G. LIOT, R.R. 1, Grafton, Ontario, Canada KOK 2G0 needs
your help: ‘I have a Waterman 2-cylinder marine engine which I
am trying to restore to original condition (it has been modified
somewhat over the years, I think) and also a 1 HP Lister horizontal
stationary engine #11346 in rusty, but original condition.
I desperately need information about the Waterman and I hope I
will get the help of the GEM readers.’
Again readers, I must caution you on asking for literature,
books, decals, etc. in this columnany item like that must go back
under WANT ADS. I am sure you understand. It is not fair to our
advertisers to ask for items in this column. Many items are
obtained through our classified ads; be sure and check the ads!
Seeking help on his Fordson tractor, this letter comes from
ROGER MADDEN, 7338 Baker Lane, Sebastopol, California 95472: ‘I
have just acquired the Fordson tractor and am anxious for any
information or material you may have pertaining to it. I do not
know the year it was built, but there are two sets of numbers
stamped on the engine.
1. top of the head, F-133A
B
and 2. right side of block by exhaust port,
6012. Thanks for any help!’
JOE MENALD of Route 4, Sabetha, Kansas 66534 wants to know the
color scheme and striping for Stover 1 HP Model K engine. Help him
if you can, I am sure he will greatly appreciate it.
A letter from GARY ROEBKES, 3302 Iroquois Lane, St. Joseph,
Missouri 64503 tells us: ‘Would you please put this snapshot of
a Minneapolis Moline tractor in Smoke Rings? I recently acquired
this tractor and the other nameplate information is: 4 x 5 model
KED, serial #540612D. I am told there were only 450 of this model
made and I think it is a 1939 model. It had 3 windshield wipers on
three front windows. It also has a speedometer that register’s
40 mph, a gas gauge and two glove compartments, all the features of
cars of that era.
I am interested in any information your readers may havesuch as
where the exhaust pipe should be and what type implements were used
with this tractor. Thank you.’
‘I have acquired two engines, a 3 HP Judson serial #W88612
and a 2 HP Wonder, serial #92349. I would like information as to
who built them and what year and any other data on these two
engines. The Wonder has water hopper and flywheels, much like the
Waterloo.’ This writing came from GLEN SODERGREN, 21700 Parrish
Road, Scandia, Minnesota 55073.
ARVE NELSON, 1450 Mesa Street, Redding, California 96001 sends
this: ‘While on a recent trip to the mountains near Redding, I
stumbled across a 15 HP Fairbanks Morse engine. It appears to be a
hit and miss type judging from the flyweight governor and exhaust
valve blockout system. My question has to do mainly with the serial
#89,001. Was this the first of a series, that may have started at
89,000? The data plate is missing unfortunately. However, this
number is stamped on both the head and the water jacket. It has
54′ flywheels, igniter, but no place for a magneto. Must have
used a battery. It also has two holes in the side of the water
jacket. One has some sort of valve threaded into it; the other hole
was, I believe, an air start inlet as there are two holes in the
base, just below it where the air pump may have mounted. I know
nothing of how the air start works, but am very interested in
finding out. Is this a rare engine? I would certainly appreciate
hearing from and corresponding with anyone who may have some
information. What is the date of manufacture?’
A few questions come from KEITH OLTROGGS, Box 529, Denver, Iowa
50622: ‘I am interested in corresponding with any collector who
knows what the original color scheme of the early Massey Harris
Challenger is. I believe the boy of the tractor to be a dark green,
but were the wheels red or yellow? Does anyone have any paint
samples or a formula approximating the original green? (Answers,
fellas!)
Our gas enthusiasts come from many walks of life and this next
writing comes from REV. MARION C. BROCK, 2619 Burnhurst Drive,
Knoxville, Tennessee 37918: ‘I own a McVickers automatic gas
and gasoline engine, Alma Mfg. Co., Alma, Michigan, patented April
28, 1903, #7790, type HDD, 375 rpm, 4 HP. I am told by many
‘iron doctors’ that it is a rare engine. The piston trips
the igniter with a flow through carburetor. I’d very much like
to hear from someone who has one of the same.
I work the flea markets on weekends and grind corn with my old
Fairbanks. I give the Gas Engine Magazine address to many
people.’ (Thanks Rev. Marion, I bet we’ll have some new
subscribers from your efforts.)
FAY SPEARS, JR., 3915 17th Street N., St. Petersburg, Florida
33714 sends this writing: ‘First, I must thank you and your
readers for past help. GEM sure is a great magazine!
Recently I purchased another engine, one that is unique to me.
The nameplate reads ‘Collis’ formerly The Superior Piersen,
designed by E. B. Cushman, 5 HP, 950 RPM, #5-3023. The Collis Co.,
Clinton, Iowa. All patent dates are 1920, 21, and 22.
It is a single cylinder upright engine, see photo. Odd features
include a single rocker arm for both intake and exhaust valves. It
is cooled by a combination evaporator tank and a radiator that is
mounted inside and turns with the flywheel. A speed control that
shows the RPM of the engine and the horsepower at each given
RPM.
The fuel pump is driven off the governor, gas level is regulated
by an overflow back to the tank. Engine is throttle governed. It
has an Ericsson magneto #SL18.
I will appreciate any information available, especially
operation and valve setting. Also date of manufacture and original
color. Thanks!’ (Is this engine unique fellas, if so, let us
hear about it.)
Seeking information on his engine the following writing comes
from HAL DUNBAR, 2390 Sunset Lane, Adrian, Michigan 49221: ‘I
have purchased a Domestic sideshaft, I believe, which was built for
C. D. Schramm & Son, and I was told it was manufactured about
1916. This engine is about a 1 or 1 HP with 2 cylinders, one for
power and the other for compressor with tank attached to rear of
engine.
I would like all the information I can get as this engine was
disassembled. I need sketches and information for plumbing the air,
timing, color, striping and any data that will help me get this to
run.’
Next is some information to the Case lovers. It comes from JERRY
SANDERS, Homewood-Flossmoor Community High School, District 223,
999 Kedzie Avenue, Flossmoor, Illinois 60422: ‘Enclosed are two
letters from Case about determining years from serial numbers. I am
a high school math teacher transplanted from a Wisconsin dairy
farm. I am very interested in old tractors, especially Case. Being
informed about the history, specifications, etc. is an interesting
part of collecting, so I wrote Case and as you can see they were
very cordial about helping me. I am surprised by the number of
times I see tractors at shows with a certain year on their info
card, but a contradictory serial number. This can cause fine
arguments.
Being informed about your hobby is one of the things that make
them interesting. That’s why C. H. Wendel’s work is so
timely. I encouraged him to do more on individual companies. There
really is a great need for a Case, AC, JD, etc. book.’
Following are the two letters from the Case Company, 700 Race
Street, Racine, Wisconsin 53404. I feel this has some information
for all the GEM family. First letter is dated November 5, 1980 to
Jerry Sanders:
‘Thank you for your recent letter to J I Case Company.
We are pleased to enclose a copy of the operating and service
instruction manual applicable to your Case model ‘L’
tractor. This manual represents the combined operator’s and
service manual providing operation, preventative maintenance and
servicing/repair of the model ‘L’ tractor.
Model ‘L’ tractors were painted grey with red wheel
spokes and rims. The grey paint is currently available under J I
Case part #B13017 (qt); red Case part #B13010 (qt). The raised ribs
bordering the fenders employed a red stripe approximately
3/16‘ wide with a narrower
1/8‘ white stripe over the red. The Case
logo cast into the radiator/grill shroud was painted silver. Decals
are currently available under the following Case part numbers:
2)321-8 (1)321-12 (1)321-18 (2)321-275 (2)321-283 (1)321-605
The above items are available from your local J I Case dealer.
We appreciate your interest in Case equipment and wish you success
in restoration of your tractor.’
Second letter dated December 9, 1980 as follows:
‘According to our records your Case model ‘L’
tractor, serial #321375 was manufactured in 1930. Year of
manufacture on tractors employing a six digit serial number may be
determined by subtracting three from the first and fourth digit;
e.g. 33-3 equals 30. The formula referenced in your recent letter
applies to seven digit serial numbers which began with 1938
production. For units after 1938 your information is correct;
subtracting 4 from the first two digits provides the year of
manufacture.
From the information provided in your letter it appears that the
carburetor you referenced is a replacement or substitute unit. We
are not able to accurately identify the carburetor. It is our
suggestion that you reference the carburetor manufacture and
numbers found on the unit and contact a local automotive parts
jobber for replacement parts.
Enclosed are copies of two brochures relating to the history of
J I Case Company and the Case steam engine. It is our hope that you
find these informative and enjoyable.
We wish you success with your Case equipment and look forward to
serving your future needs.’
Here’s a little bit different note on finding engines as
DENNIS P. MORSE, Route 1, Box 197, Momence, Illinois 60954 (phone
815-472-2372) writes: ‘My mother tells about how one day,
probably in the 30s or 40s, grandpa got tired of seeing all the old
iron setting around, called in a dozer and buried it. It’s
believed that in the burial are 2 or 3 stationary engines. I am
reasonably sure we can locate the burial with a metal detector. I
heard a story recently of locating a dozer under a 20 foot deep
landslide.
I am wondering if anyone out there has recovered something like
this and what condition it was when brought up. It sure would be
nifty to own one that was grandpa’s. (Sure it would be nifty
Dennis, here’s wishing you a lot of luck and let us know what
happens if you pursue this project.)
TOM PEARSON, R.D. 2, Box 73, Hartly, Delaware 19953 is
interested in information pertaining to a Yard Hand Model 100 made
by Hiller Eng. Company, Redwood City, California. He thinks it is
quite rare, but then admits he doesn’t know how many there
might be in other areas of the country. If you have one, or know
about them, please write Tomand us too.
A new subscriber tells us: ‘I’m subscribing to GEM. I
got hold of a couple of issues from a friend and now realize I must
have my own. I am just getting bitten by the ‘old engine
bug’ myself. I have really enjoyed what I have encountered so
far.
I have a pair of John Deere 1 HP engines, one restored and also
what I believe is to be a 3 HP Rock Island in sad shape. Anybody
having any knowledge about Rock Island engines I would appreciate
hearing from you. Thanks, will look forward to receiving my
magazine. Thank you!!’ (If you want to write, the address is
JIM PIEPER, R.R. 1, Dodge, Nebraska 68633.)
Referring to a letter from Sept/Oct. issue comes this letter:
‘In regard to the name Farm Master, I have an engine identical
to the one described by C. A. Paulson, 2926 N. 16th Drive, Phoenix,
Arizona 85015 in the Sept./Oct. issue of GEM magazine. Stamped on
nameplate is Farm Master Sears, Roebuck & Co.
I also have an engine and I didn’t know what it was until I
saw the picture of Tom Pemberton’s, Centralia, Missouri 65240
‘Stewart Little Wonder Shearing Machine.’ There is a lot of
helpful information in your magazine. I sure do enjoy it.’ This
information came from LYNN BOWLAND, Box 47, Maitland, Missouri
64466.
RICHARD H. AUSTIN, Water Street, Box 21, Elizabethtown, New York
12932 is the owner of a Case tractor, 10-18 HP, engine #39915, 4
cyl. crossmotor. He would like to know the year this was
manufactured. He thanks you and will be waiting for any assistance
possible.
‘I am trying to restore a steel wheel Allis-Chalmers model
‘E’ 20 x 35 gas tractor. It is a 1927 model. If anyone can
help me with information, please write me. Does anyone know if very
many of these tractors were made? I have not been able to find any
around this area,’ says DWAYNE DAVID, R.R. 2, Henry, South
Dakota 57243. (I’m sorry Dwayne you mentioned some parts, that
would have to go in the classified ad section. I am sure you
understand. Also if you read the ads you may find some of the parts
you are seeking.)
A letter comes from one of our faithful contributors as LEROY
QUANDT, R.R., Ryder, North Dakota 58779 writes: ‘I always enjoy
the magazine especially when the fellows put the tractor number
along with the picture or article on a certain tractor. This is my
hobby; tractors, their numbers and their ages, along with making up
lists of the ones that are still around at shows, museums or
collectors.
For example on the Caterpillar Ten just off hand I know of eight
of them and have the tractor number from four of those. Also on the
Massey Harris Challenger my list is up to eight tractors just after
a few minutes of looking through my notebooks.
There are many shows with show books, plus the many tractors
mentioned in the engine magazines that add to these tractor lists.
Then I get letters from many other fellows around the states that
go to shows in their area and have sent me the lists of tractors
and their numbers of the ones that they have seen. So some of the
tractor lists are well over 100. This is the case with the 30-60
Aultman-Taylor and for several of the Rumely Oilpull models.
Also I have been able to obtain the factory serial number
listings for many of these old tractors and so now can date most of
them. The Farmall tractors begin and end like this: The Regular QC
501 in 1924 ending in 1932 with number T 134954. The F-20 with
number FA 501 in 1932 ending in 1939 with TA 148810. The F-12 began
with FS-501 in 1932 and ended in 1938 with FS 123942. The F-14
began in 1938 with FS 124000 and ended in 1939 with FS 155902. The
F-30 began in 1931 with FB-501 and ended in 1939 with FB 30026.
Hart Parr ’30’ (15-30) owned and restored by Dave
Preuhs. 6′ bore, 7′ stroke, 750 rpm, built in 1920, serial
#17892. Two cylinder engine was sparked by a high tension magneto
with impulse starter ignition. Water was cooled with a honeycomb
core radiator. Water pump and fan shaft were driven off of the
flywheel. It used a Madison-Kipp force feed lubricator. Exhaust
muffler can be seen in front of tractor beneath radiator. 10,166
tractors of this type were produced from 1918-1922, and very few
are in existence today.
Engine view showing rocker arms, push rods, Schebler carburetor,
air cleaner, brake, shift, and clutch controls. Also the Hart Parr
patented ‘Kerosene shunt’ which was a method used in
preheating heavier fuels for better combustion by diverting the
fuel down into a chamber surrounding the exhaust manifold and then
back into the intake manifold.
The engine number for the F-12 and F-14 tractors is also stamped
in the engine on the left side just ahead of the fuel pump. So if
the factory or manufacturer’s plate is gone you can still find
the number and get the year built for your tractor. This can be
done for many other tractor models and makes, for example I know
where the engine number is stamped on the Twin City tractors, the
Waterloo Boy tractors, Avery, Rumely Oilpull and Allis Chalmers
just to mention a few.
For those wishing additional information and years built on any
model I would appreciate a SASE.’
That about winds it up for this time, dear friends, and in
signing off I wish you all a Blessed Holiday Season and
rememberLife, like a mirror, never gives back more than we put into
it. Hurry is the mother of most mistakes. The poorest man is he
whose only wealth is Money.
Bye, bye, Love ‘Ya’!
