This is the March-April issue I’m working on – sadly to say
it is not March-April spring like weather yet close this out – but
BOY will we be happy for SPRING!! We’ve had over 21 inches of
snow plus ? how much rain interspersed with freezing, blowing,
chilling, just bluckey weather – I was sitting here the other day
typing a while and then scooping up water with the water vac or
else sweeping it up, then typing then cleaning water again as the
weather had warmed up and the ground is many feet deep with frozen
water and it starts coming in our cellar walls and when it comes
running under your feet where you’re working – its time to get
busy getting rid of the water – and to think how California was so
dry for so long – wish we could have shipped it right out there –
oh well, Praise the Lord anyhow! And now onto the letters – many,
many
MIKE ROBERTS, Box 157D, Cedar Knoll Road, RD 1, Coatesville,
Pennsylvania 19320 writes: ‘I’ve recently acquired a Delco
Light Plant and need some information. As I’m fairly new to the
Gas Engine Game, perhaps someone of the readers could help me.
The engine is a four cylinder overhead valve and is air-cooled.
There is a large aluminum cover that swings over the rocker arms.
Delco Light Company, Dayton, Ohio, U.S.A. is cast into the
crankcase on the carburetor side. The generator is mounted on what
I would consider to be the rear of the engine; and there is a
switch and fuse panel mounted above the generator area. The whole
outfit seems to be complete and in very good shape, but I would
like to get some information on the electrical side of things
before I attempt to start it so I don’t fry the generator and
control box. If any of the readers could offer any advice on this
outfit, I would really appreciate hearing from them.
I would also like to know the proper color scheme for a Fuller
and Johnson farm pump engine. In closing, let me say that I really
enjoy the Smoke Rings column and usually read it first when G.E.M.
arrives.’
JOHN W. DAVIS, 20070 St. Rt. 119, Maplewood, Ohio 45340
comments; ‘I have a few words for Smoke Rings column – I look
forward to each G.E.M. and I.M.A. magazine and enjoy them very
much. I thought the colored pictures used, added a lot and would
like to see more.
I am a Case tractor collector and would like to hear from
someone who has any information on a Model CD crawler that I think
was built in the 30s. There is a picture of one in a little
pamphlet called A Case History.’
J. M. HUCKABEE, J-BEE Ranch, Route 3, Box 138, Leander, Texas
78641 writes us, I believe for the first time: ‘Several people
in this area are engine and tractor collectors. We enjoy your
magazine so much and read every line over and over.
The old iron on the J-Bee Ranch counts to 16 old engines, a
cordwood sawmill, an old Ford Roadster with oil lights (1923), a
working windmill water pump and a metal cutting draw saw. With the
exception of one engine, all items are restored and in good order.
We have high volume electric water pumps on the ranch but still
supply the house with the Aeromotor windmill.
I would like to see a technical article in G.E.M. – the ‘how
to do’ type. These could be on subjects of general interest so
they would be valuable to everyone. (Send them in Fellas, we will
print them.)
The early memories of my childhood is of the giant majestic long
straw pine trees of Laurel, Mississippi. These trees grew to eight
or more feet in diameter and a hundred feet to the first limb. Post
and bridge timbers from heart pine are good for more than a hundred
years.
Our buildings were roofed with heart pine shingles which we
called ‘boards.’ These boards were split from blocks with
hand tools: a froe and maul. The froe is a dull steel blade with a
wood handle attached at a right angle. The maul of wood was hand
hewn from the butt cut of a small hickory tree. We spoke of riveing
boards; or that boards were rived from blocks. Typical roofing
boards were 2-2?’ long, 1′ wide and about ?’ thick.
These were always rived from heart cuts of long straw pine
timber.
Now we older Mississippians don’t know what a shingle mill
is all about. I see reference to a shingle mill in operation at
various shows, but the pictures never show much detail.
Would you please run a little article on a shingle mill with
some detailed photographs – for us folk who (rived our boards with
a maul and froe)? We sure would like to know how they work. (Send
the shingle mill articles in guys and we’ll see what we can
print in a more detailed story for folks who are interested. Seems
sawmills are run more from steam, aren’t they?)
Thanks again for the pleasure that G.E.M. brings into our
lives.’
H. L. RITTER, Route 5, Box 127, Fulton, New York 13069 tells:
‘I would like to thank you all who have given me information on
igniters in G.E.M. and in letters. We are having a little winter
here. Don’t do much on engines during the winter. We have had
over 100 inches of snow so far this winter with February our usual
snow month. I spent the day shoveling holes in the snowbanks, so I
would have places to pur our next snowfall. According to weathermen
there is more due late tonight and tomorrow (written Jan. 20). Oh
well, in about four months, I will be able to get grease under my
fingernails again.’ (Well Mr. Ritter surely seems to be taking
the whole snow scene well – I’m almost embarrassed to mention
our 21 inches of snow – but I just don’t know how people manage
– we must not have the proper facilities around here for digging
out of the snow. I’ll tell you one thing, though, I’m
always in awe when these snowstorms hit, for we, of the human race
seem to be pretty independent and think we can take care of things,
and then the snowflakes come-and all those beautiful little
snowflakes practically immobilize us – and we find out how small we
are – but then we realize how great is our Creator
don’t we?
From OLIVER SORRELL, R. D. 2, Box 246, Morrisonville, New York
12962 – ‘Received our third issue of G.E.M. and like it very
much. Enclosed is a picture of a gas engine we recently acquired.
We cannot find a name on it. The only information we find is Eng.
No. 15 J16126E, R.P.M. 775, HP 1?-2JI also all parts NO # start
with prefix G.E. Would appreciate any information as to make, year,
color and where they were made. Hope to hear from someone.’
ARNOLD E. OLIN, Seamay Avenue, Alexandria Bay, New York 13607 is
looking for information on a make and break engine. He has one and
is in the process of bringing it back to life. It is an Associated
Mfg. Co. Eng. #147786, Ignition magneto, water-cooled, 4′
piston, flywheel governor, 2? HP. If you can give him a boost with
this project, he’ll appreciate it.
BILL THELEMANN, R. R. 1, Box 188, Le Sueur, Minnesota 56058
writes: ‘I would appreciate it if you would pass this on to all
the fine gas engine buffs who read your fine magazine.
I have three Economy gas engines that I am in the process of
repainting, they are a 7 HP, 5 HP and a 1? HP. After many hours of
cleaning off the grease and dirt I am ready to put on the paint.
But, I am not quite sure what the true color may be. After spending
all that time getting them ready it would be a shame to paint them
the wrong color. I would truly appreciate any information anyone
would have on the color. Also, I would like to know how many
different models were made of the Economy and where Hercules came
in. Thanks again for such a fine magazine.’
DEREK WILLIAMS, ‘Chestnuts’, GT, Doward, Symonds Yat,
Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, England would welcome information of
any kind on an Economy No. 240567, HP 1?E. He would especially like
to know the age of this engine. Also, anything anyone could tell
him about an Associated Manufacturers So. air-cooled, horizontal
open crank, about 2 HP. The magneto has the letters
ANM on it and the no. 132645. It is driven by shew
gears.
DONALD S. PADY, Reference Librarian/Bibliographer, 212 North
Riverside Drive, Ames, Iowa 50010 writes to express his thanks and
appreciation to alt the readers who have responded by offering
their support to his project. The index will be a great treasure to
hobbyists and collectors. (See article in September-October Gas
Engine Magazine.)
We received this letter from THOMAS F. HARRIS, 4 Coady Court,
Petaluma, California 94952 after he was referred to our readers for
help from the Smithsonian Institute. ‘I have possibly a
potential engine for your magazine – evidently a rare bird. It is a
Schmidt Chilled Cylinder Engine, type H, number 7615, 3 HP, pat.
August 13, 1907. It was manufactured by the Schmidt Bros. Co.,
engine works in Davenport, Iowa. The Schmidt Bros. Co. appeared in
the Davenport city directory from 1910-1913, and the latest date on
the Holley type NH carburetor is 1913. This engine is a vertical
open crankcase type, with twin flywheels, hit and miss ignition, a
rocker operated exhaust valve, and suction operated intake. The
bore and stroke is approximately 4′ x 4′. It is 90%
original and completely rebuilt-the only non-original parts are two
governor springs, a new poured rod bearing and new gas line. I wish
to establish a value and/or any data as to quantity made, original
use, owners manual, etc. Can send pictures if interested. I have
never seen a convection air-cooled engine of this age. Any
information would be appreciated.’
From JOHN BIKOWSKY, Madison, New York 13402: ‘I have a 1? HP
Deyo headless and gearless gas engine made by the Deyo-Macey Engine
Co., Binghamton, New York. Does anyone out there in engine land
have any information on the Deyo-Macey Engine Company? I
haven’t seen one like it at any of the engine shows that I have
attended. I also restore McCormick Deering tractors. I have four
10-20’s and W-40, so if anyone has a problem, let me know and
maybe I can help you out.’
WILLIAM W. DODGE, 133 Wilson Road, Valley Stream, New York 11581
writes, ‘I have a spark plug problem with this small hit and
miss engine, an engine that I know very little about. The former
owner said that it is a natural gas engine, but he never ran it. I
don’t like the idea of escaping gas, so I have added a small
carburetor where the fresh air intake was. The valve for admitting
natural gas can be seen just above the automatic intake valve. The
gas passed through a hole in the casting to a small slot in the
face of the intake valve seal, so when the valve was closed no gas
could enter. I hope that I can get it running on gasoline. The
spark plug is an odd size. The plug that was in the engine is not
in good shape. It is a Rajah plug with a pipe thread having 18
threads to the inch, but is a little larger than 3/8′ pipe
thread (it is not ?’ pipe which has 14 threads per inch) and is
the size more often found in old engines. I would really like to
know of a source of supply for this odd spark plug as well as any
other information someone may have on this engine. It weighs about
55 lbs. and the flywheels are 8′ in diameter. Using the
horsepower formula in G.E.M., it is ? HP or about 400 R.P.M. At
some point someone had a lot of chrome or nickel plating done and
put it on a fancy base. It is a real nice engine, very well made,
with no sign of wear to speak of. 1 am anxious to get it running by
springtime. If there are others familiar with this engine or have
spark plug information, I would like to hear from them.’
MIKE LUTE, 923 E. Bannock, Boise, Idaho 83702 writes, ‘Since
I am a new subscriber, I wish to ask a favor of your readers. I
recently purchased a R & V Engine, manufactured for the John
Deere Plow Co., 4 HP s/n CL29223, patent date July 14, 1903-May 3,
1904. I’ve found little reference to this engine as yet, and
being new, need some qualified help. The greatest and immediate
problem is that it has been changed from the original ignition to a
spark plug excited by a Model T coil. I haven’t any idea as to
what the original system looked like or whether I can restore it. I
assure it must have had the make/break horseshoe magneto. Can
anybody help? I work as a sales rep for John Deere Industrial Co.
and have tried through Deere & Co. But so far, no success.
I’m still interested in meeting anyone in the Boise area
subscribing to the G.E.M.’
From across the sea from VAN DER SCHAAL, Juweliers B.V Torenlaan
8, Laren-N. Holland – ‘Could you please send me some
information about (The Arco), Hudson, Michigan. I have 16 different
stationary engines, also an Arco. I bought it in Canada and had it
shipped over to Holland and am anxious for any thing that will help
me better know about this engine.’
FLOYD JENNER, 2003 Washington Street, Henderson, Kentucky 42420
sends us this picture of his Chicago Aermotor, 3 HP, gas engine.
Floyd had this engine at the last Portland, Indiana show. While
there, he spoke briefly to a gentleman from Canada, he thinks, who
has an aermotor engine of this design. His is a 6 HP, though. Floyd
didn’t get his name, but would like for that gentleman to
contact him. Please call collect: 502-827-3073.
GARY R. HARWOOD, R R 1, Box 143A, East Thompson, Connecticut
06277 is interested in acquiring any information on the Sattley 3
HP gas engine sold by Montgomery Ward & Company.
GEORGE S. CLARK, 254 Pond Point Avenue, Milford, Connecticut
06460 is making Charter Engines the center of his collection right
now. Would anyone who has a Charter engine drop him a line and let
him know, for he would like to make up a list of all known Charter
engines.
Another limerick from WALT NIELAND, Route 2, Carroll, Iowa
51401. As I got to the Albert City show – At once I had to see
every row – To right the engines were popping – To left the
swappers were shopping – And my feet got tangled on the go!
K. G. ROMINE, R.D. 3, Box 591, South Point, Ohio 45680 has just
finished restoring a small air-cooled hit and miss engine. He has
been told by experienced collectors that it is an Ideal, 3/4 HP.
There is no I.D. tag on it. Could someone tell him who made it,
where it was made and does anyone have a reprint of the manual for
it?
BOB BRIGGS, 7601 22nd Avenue, Kenosha, Wisconsin 53140 sends his
thanks to all those from all over the United States, Canada and
Australia who wrote in answer to his questions in the
November-December Smoke Rings. He says, ‘Many of the letters
answered my questions about my engines and others asked for help on
ignition systems. I am sure I have established some long lasting
friendships. Like many others in the North Country, I have put my
engines away for the winter. The grease is finally worn off of my
hands. I was out in the garage, last Saturday, working on some
Christmas decorations and uncovered my old Maytag washing machine.
I gave it a kick and it started and ran the second time I tramped
it. Anna Mae, my mother passed away and was laid to rest 13 years
ago. Going through some of her old books, I ran across the attached
verse, written in her hand. ‘Don’t Judge Too Hard’
Don’t find fault with the man who limps-Or stumbles along the
road,-Unless you have worn the shoes he wears- Or struggled beneath
his load,- There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt-Though hidden
away from view,-Or the burden he bears, placed on your back,-Might
cause you to stumble, too. Don’t sneer at the man who’s
down today,-Unless you have felt the blow-That caused his fall, or
felt the shame-That only the fallen know. You may be strong, but
still the blows-That were his, if dealt on you,-In the self same
way, at the self same time,-Might cause you to stagger, too.
Don’t be too harsh with the man who sins-Or pelt him with words
or stones,- Unless you are sure, yes doubly sure,-That you have no
sins of your own,-For you know perhaps, if the tempters
voice-Should whisper as soft to you-As it did to him when he went
astray,-T’would cause you to stumble, too.’ (Thanks Bob for
sharing that with us.)
From PAUL WILKINS, 7 Douglas Street, Mannum, South Australia,
Australia 5238 – ‘Here I am again writing to you asking you if
you could please put a note in G.E.M. Recently I purchased a
horizontal, air-cooled, single cylinder twin flywheel New Way
engine made in Lansing, Michigan, U.S.A. There is no provision on
the engine for an identification plate. The only number I could
find on it is V706. It has a 5?’ diameter bore, 7′ stroke
plus the crankcase cover has two small vents cut into it. Can
readers tell me how old the engine is and what is the
horsepower?
Chatting about his engines and giving some information is RAY
THURMAN, Route 1, Fergus Falls, Minnesota 56537: ‘I thought
while I had the notion, I might as well write and let you know how
I enjoy your magazine. I haven’t been collecting very long, but
have a 3 HP Fuller & Johnson, 1? HP New Way, both mint
condition. Also 2 1? HP Internationals and 2 1? HP Fairbanks Morse,
not in too good of condition as they need some repair work. I also
have a What Is It? I thought it was a John Deere, but find out it
isn’t. Right now, I have it standing on end full of penetrating
oil trying to loosen a frozen bucket. Is there anything that will
loosen it up quicker?
What I started out to write about was in answer to Andrew
Goodman’s letter from Lincoln, Nebraska about his Model C Co-op
tractor. I was going to write direct but thought maybe someone else
could use the information also.
It was sold at one time by the Farmers Union and was a real good
engine in its day. If I remember right, it had a Chrysler
Industrial engine in it. If he can’t get information around
there, maybe he could write to Farmers Union Oil Co., Carrington,
North Dakota 58421 and send a stamped self addressed envelope. Hope
this helps!’
PHILIP MULLEN, Route 8, Box 188, Alexandria, Minnesota 56308
explains: ‘I’m trying to find out the name of the person
that has the production records for the Fuller & Johnson
Company. I have a 2? HP hit and miss engine, Serial #84385 and
would like to know what year it was built.’ (Help fellas – I
can’t remember all these things, or always lay my hands right
on the information as I would like to do.)
Many of you may be looking for new entertainment at the reunions
– may I suggest you write EIFFEL G. PLASTERER, R. R. 5, Box 245,
Huntington, Indiana 46750. Phone 219-356-6047. Eiffel was a good
friend of Elmer Ritzman’s and I remember meeting him one time
in our town. He did a show at the high school while here. He does a
Bubbles Concerto, an unusual and fantastic soap bubble exhibition –
good entertainment for all ages. He has other types of
entertainment and interesting diversions – why not write him and
see for yourself? He is also knowledgable of steam equipment,
sorghum mills, machine shops, etc. – a man of many interests.
ROBERT RIEBEL, R.R. 1, Box 163, Le Sueur, Minnesota 56058 chats
a bit: ‘Having been a member of the G.E.M. for a little over a
year now, I wanted to tell you I sure enjoy reading it and have
gotten a lot of good ideas. Thanks for putting out a good magazine
that my two sons, 12 and 14 years old, can read and also learn
from.
I would like information on the right color, or someone that
might have a 1937 Huber with a Buda engine that could give me help
on fixing my Huber – and restoring it! (Now, there’s a chance
to do a good deed for an engine buddy.)
The following is a letter from Herbert Jacobs, Facility Spring
Coordinator, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to JAY HILL, 463 Ella
Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15221. ‘Dear Mr. Hill: Thank
you for your letter of October 31, 1977 to Governor Shapp. He has
asked me to reply. I have read the description of the Augustine
Rotary Engine in the Gas Engine Magazine issue of September 10,
1976. There is one paragraph in the article which states ‘the
engine has been examined by hundreds of expert engineers who have
pronounced it the most wonderful power producer in the world, and
the demand for it has been enormous ever since the first engine was
completed.’ The seven passenger car pictured in the article
appears to be an early 1920 model and since the only rotary engine
I know of that is on the market today is the Wankel, I wonder if
the Wankel is patterned after the Augustine. It might be
interesting to note that my daughter has a Mazda with a Wankel
rotary engine in it and does not get anywhere near the mileage
referred to in the article.’
From ED D. EDWARDS, 22766 Islamare, El Toro, California 92630
comes some answers and some chatting; ‘In the Smoke Rings
section of the Jan.-Feb. issue of G.E.M. on page 16, Franklin
Eggers, Nezperce, Idaho 83543 has inquired about a Monitor buzz saw
made in Evansville, Wisconsin. These were manufactured by Baker
Manufacturing Co., Evansville, Wisconsin. The original color of all
the horizontal Monitor engines is medium grey with white pin
striping.
I believe they used the horizontal Monitor engines on all the
portable buzz saw outfits. Baker Manufacturing also makes vertical
engines and they were painted different colors. An 11 page book on
Monitor engines is reprinted and available from Jean Metcalf, 7924
Depot Road, Ashtabula, Ohio 44004. It doesn’t show the buzz saw
outfits, but it does show the horizontal and vertical Monitors and
all the parts of each. As to what size Monitor engine ran the saw,
my guess would be either a 5 or 8 HP Monitor engine, but probably
an 8 HP version for that size saw rig. I hope this will be of some
help.
Also on page 17 of the same G.E.M., Kenneth Pletan, Wendell,
Minnesota 56590 was looking for information on hydraulic water rams
for elevating spring water. Two companies still make water rams in
several sizes. Rife Rams and Davey Rams. He should write to Rife
Hydraulic Engine Manufacturing Co., Rife Ram & Pump Works, Box
367, Millburn, New Jersey 07041. They will send a free brochure to
you and if you give them the details on the flow of your spring,
etc. they will tell you which of the rams would be best for your
particular situation.
The Davy Ram will pump (without any gas or electricity) and
elevate the water from 5 to 10 times that of the ‘Head’
supply, maximum of 100′ of elevation. The larger Rife Rams do
even better.’
CLARE R. BAUGHMAN, 5897 East H Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49004
sends along this letter in hopes of hearing from some of the GEM
family: ‘About four years ago I purchased my first gas engine –
a 2 HP Hercules. The gentleman I got it from loaned me a few issues
of G.E.M. That was my downfall. I immediately sent in my
subscription and now can’t wait for it to come – seems so long
between issues. I find many interesting articles and lots of
valuable information in this fine magazine.
I never thought that anything like gas engines could get in
one’s blood but it really did and now I have 19 engines, a 1938
Model B John Deere tractor and 4 model engines that I built. I have
a trailer and exhibit my engines at the shows in this area where I
meet so many nice people.
At the present time I am looking for someone out there in Gas
Engine Land who has a 3 HP Ward sideshaft engine and would
correspond with me regarding same. The crank guard and the muffler
are missing on my Ward sideshaft engine Serial #3837. Type GE BHP
3. Perhaps someone with a complete engine would send me a picture.
Also, I would like to know the place of manufacture.
Thank you for your fine work in making such a great magazine
available to us gas engine addicts. God bless you.’
CAROL COON, Reference Librarian of Bay Area Reference Center,
San Francisco Public Library, Civic Center, San Francisco,
California 94102 writes: ‘I am trying to help a patron who
needs repair information on an engine made by Bates and Edmonds
Motor Company of Lansing, Michigan. He says it is about 75 years
old, 1? HP, gasoline-powered engine, no spark plug or magneto, 4
cycle, single cylinder, water-cooled. ‘Bulldog’ is stamped
on the side, ‘make and break’ type ignition.
I am unable to find the company listed in our current
directories so I am hoping you may be able to offer some advise on
the repair of this type of engine or could you refer me to someone
who might know.
Thank you for any information you can give us – it is greatly
appreciated.
JOHN W. BOYENS, 3711 South Hampton Drive, Bettendorf, Iowa 52722
sends us this picture of a gas engine that he traded for last
month. He hadn’t seen it – only knew that it was an air-cooled
vertical and was missing some parts. Missing are: carburetor,
governor, timing device, fuel pump, muffler and main sub base. He
believes it is a Famous vertical air-cooled, 2 HP. Does anyone have
an engine of this type that would let him use the parts to case
from to complete this one and get it running? All letters will be
returned.
From BEN J. KINSINGER, R. D. 1, Box 234A, Meyersdale,
Pennsylvania 15552: ‘I wonder if any of the readers would be
interested in a service directory. A book like this would be of
help to the restoring man who could check index for mag repair,
bearing babbiting, gas tanks made, rings, etc. I would like any
information on New Holland engines – like date made, price,
etc.’
LARRY HOCHSTEIN, Box 162, Wynot, Nebraska 68792 is counting on
you folks to help him: ‘I would like to ask the fellows if they
would help me out with a Monitor 1? HP, serial #29283. Information
is needed about the color, year made and one missing piece on the
ignition.
Would also like to thank Kenneth Moore of Newfield, N.J. for
identifying the remains of an engine I have as a 5 HP Galloway.
I’m able, with his help, to send along an ad for missing parts
for this engine. Thanks much!’ (see ad under Wanted)
Information needed for ROBERT PURCELL, 261 R Main Street,
Wayland, Massachusetts 01778: ‘Recently I was given an old
engine when I was cleaning a basement in an old New England
farmhouse. I would like any information as to worth of the engine
now and what was its original use.
RIDER-ERICSSON ENGINE CO.
‘REECO’ GASOLINE ENGINE
New York, Philadelphia, Boston
No. S 8047 HP – 1?
This is the information on the identification plate. I also have
the original owners manual (though partially decayed from being
stored in the battery box) and the original packing slip from the
DOMESTIC ENGINE & PUMP CO., Shippens burg, Pa. dated:
8-30-1913.
The engine is mounted on Hoffer Engine Skids, and the entire
assembly is complete and with original paint and pin striping
intact. The engine is still free enough to be turned over by hand
and even the hand crank is in excellent condition. I doubt the
engine ever had much use and looks to be easily restorable to
immaculate running order. I would greatly appreciate any
information that could be supplied to me. Thank you very much and I
hope to be hearing from you very soon.’
EARL SHEESLEY, 361 Corner Ketch Road, Downington, Pennsylvania
19335 is expecting to hear an answer to his letter: ‘I think I
need some help from the Smoke rings section. For several months I
have been advertising without success for information on
‘Rockford’ engines. I am trying to rebuild one now in my
possession. In the March-April 1970 issue of G.E.M., page 35, there
is a picture of the exact type I am working on, submitted by Gerald
F. Hoffman, 313 E. Peru Street, Princeton, Illinois and taken at
Mount Pleasant, Iowa Midwest Thresher Show in 1968. I would very
much like to see this engine and would travel any place in the
United States to do so. If the present owner would contact me, or
if anyone knows the present owner, and would give me this
information I would appreciate it very much.’ (I’m assuming
you did try and get in touch with Gerald Hoffman and received no
answer, right Earl? – so anyone that can help, he’s waiting to
hear from you.)
‘Please Help!’ is the cry from ELBERT STUMP, 915 Lawn
Avenue, Sellersville, Pennsylvania 18960. He would like to hear
from someone with a 12 HP Columbus gas engine. He needs to know the
distance the piston extends beyond the cylinder when the crank is
farthest out and also when it is farthest in. SEE WANT AD.
Some information comes to you readers from LOREN E. LIPPOLDT,
Route 1, Box 58, Kinsley, Kansas 67547: ‘I think I have some
information that might be useful to those who are about to restore
Fairbanks Morse engines. For data on the year your engine was
built, write to: COLT Industries International, Inc., Attn:
R. G. Humpries, Renewal Sales, 701 Lawton Avenue, Beloit, WI
53511.
For those seeking parts, write to: Fairbanks Morse,
Inc., Warehouse Operation, P. O. Box 55, Laredo, Texas 78040,
Attention: Mr. Grecorio Carmona.
I am 64 and am retired and tired. I have collected about 40 old
gas engines in the last five years. I have 12 of them nearly
restored, and I am restoring three more. I do this to help me pass
the time in my retirement years.
I am in correspondence with other gas engine collectors in
Australia, Canada and the United States. I also collect empty beer
cans and have about 150 of them. I have received beer cans from a
girl gas engine collector in Minnesota; and I have been offered
beer cans from a gas engine collector in Australia.
I have about 15,000 U.S. and foreign postage stamps. I have had
pictures of some of my gas engines in 6 different publications.
I sold all of my farmland and I kept the 2? acre farmstead,
here, where I live.
We have had a rather mild winter, so far. We have only had a
slight trace of snow, twice. It has been down to zero, once. It
gets up into the 40s most afternoons.
This is nearly level country; and about the only thing between
us and the North Pole is a barbed wire fence.
There are only 6,000 souls in the whole country. I am the only
gas engine collector in the county. GOD BLESS’
ROBERT YOUNG, 54 Sound Avenue, Riverhead, Long Island, New York
11901 is eagerly awaiting information on an International 8-16 as
he wants to restore one that will add to his collection of 11
engines. He is a farmer and is always interested in how other folks
find and restore tractors and engines that were made years ago.
From GARY D. McCHESNEY, Raquette Lake, New York 13436: ‘I
have been collecting gas engines for about 10 years now and have
quite a few. In the summer of 1977, I acquired a Rider and Ericsson
hot air pumping engine from a man who lives on Raquette Lake and
had used the engine up to about 10 years ago. It took me most of
that time to talk him into selling it. Finally we settled on a
price and the work began. I borrowed a barge and with the help of
my son and some of his friends, we dismantled the engine and loaded
in on the barge for the 6 mile trip down the lake to my house. All
the parts were there, so it only took a couple of hours to put it
back together. I built a fire in the fire box and low and behold,
after about 30 minutes I turned it over a couple of times and it
started to pump water. I spent my hours cleaning and painting and
setting up a barrel to pump water from. Enclosed is a picture taken
at the Flywheel & Pulley’s Engine Show in Constableville,
New York on 9/11/77. That is my dad on the right behind the engine,
Duane McChesney. The engine is a Rider & Ericsson, 6′ bore,
rebuilt in 1912, serial #18961. I would like to hear from other hot
air engine owners or anyone interested in hot air or gas
engines.’
From MR. & MRS. LEWIS SUMPTER, 24871 Lehama-Vina Road, Los
Molinos, California 96055 write: ‘We enjoy your magazine very
much and look forward to each issue long before they come in the
mail. We are looking for information on a Sears Roebuck wood saw
with 7 HP Economy gas engine on a metal frame. The gas engine is a
hit and miss and has a horseshoe magneto, the oiler pipe runs down
the middle of the water jacket. The wood saw has a sliding table.
The gas engine and saw are all on one frame. We would like to know
when this type of saw and gas engine was manufactured and sold.
Thanks again for your good magazine. We learn something each
time we read it. I hope your readers will have some information for
us.’
DAVID L. SICKLER, JR., R.D. 1, Woodstown, New Jersey 08098,
phone 609-769-2066 is seeking information on a Bessimer 25-30 Hp
engine which runs on natural gas. He is in the process of restoring
it. He is especially interested in data on a hot ball and or
ignitor system.
NORRIS WOOTEN, Route 10, Box 193, Statesville, North Carolina
28677 says: ‘I recently bought a used farm tractor. It is a
Leader, equipped with a four cylinder Hercules gas engine, motor
#27204. I’m interested in knowing where I might find a Hercules
distributor near my home town.’ (Anyone know?)
GEORGE LEEPER, R.R. 1, Kingston, Missouri 64650 writes: ‘I
am a collector of John Deere tractors. I’m especially
interested in the G.P. widetreads. I am compiling a list of serial
numbers of widetread tractors. I would like for any of your readers
who have one of these tractors to send me the serial number. If
they would include SASE I would send them the list when I get it
completed. I think it will be interesting to see just how many of
this model still exist today.
Always enjoy your magazine. I collect GEM too!’
Here’s a note from VINCENT CHAPMAN, 2315 S. Birmingham PL,
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114: ‘I was very interested in reading about
the 80 HP Maytag engine mentioned in Mr. Ritter’s letter. A
farmer south of town has one that I have been trying to buy for
years. He refuses to sell because he uses it to run his cream
separator. For starting it, he uses whichever one of his two cows
that is dry. He says the only trouble he has is getting the cow in
the barn loft.
I have a 1? HP Hercules SN #210387 and two 1? HP Economys SN
#35694 and #143339. Does anyone in Gas Engine Land know the year of
manufacture? Also I have a 7 HP upright Monitor SN #10143, a 1? HP
Sattley with a Webster Tripolar Oscillator SN #13190, a 2 HP Stover
open crank with a Webster Tripolar Oscillator SN #Y138455. Does
anyone know the year of manufacture of these engines?
I show my engines at the Pawnee, Oklahoma show. We had 80
engines last year and hope to have more this year. Bring yourself
and an engine or two and have a good time. Show dates are July 14,
15 and 16.
JAMES R. STEWART, Box 44, R.D. 9, Chambersburg, Pa. 17201 asks:
‘I am writing to find out if anyone can tell me how many years
it takes before an engine is considered an antique. The reason for
this question is that I have started to collect Briggs &
Stratton engines of the cast iron variety and I understand that
they quit making the cast iron engine in 1954, so this would make
the late models 24 years old – would they be considered antiques
yet?’ (I don’t know, would they – I’d say they would
have to be older than that, but you could hold on to them awhile –
hey, that makes a lot of antique people, doesn’t it? Wonder how
much we’re worth?)
I got a subscription to your fine magazine as a Christmas gift
and enjoy it very much.
STANLEY B. VOORHEES, SR., R.D. 2, Hudson, New York 12534 is
seeking some answers and thanks you in advance for the letters he
is confident he will receive: ‘I would appreciate some
information that I hope your readers can provide. I am a long time
reader of G.E.M. but a first-time writer to your magazine. I have
been a subscriber since 1969 and have appreciated all the
information that I have received throughout the years.
I have about 55 restored engines, all in running condition, but
my favorite is a 2 HP Hercules because of its sentimental memories.
My father bought it in 1917 for $37.00. It was a multi-purpose
little engine. My mother used it to run a White Lily washing
machine, and when the weather failed to provide wind for the
Aermotor to operate the windmill, we used it to pump water.
In the early 1930s my brother and I had the Hercules running a
2-hole corn sheller. I remember one winter we shelled about 1800
bushels of corn, and the corn sold for about 56? a bu.
My father also had a York engine that I wish I had, but he
loaned it out, and to my knowledge it was never returned.
Enough reminiscing, I better get back to my original reason for
writing. I need some information on dates and ages of the
following: the date of a 2 HP Woodpecker, serial #575; the age of a
6 HP Wisconsin, made by Lauton and Larsen, serial #511. This is a
sideshaft engine with an ignitor on the back; the age of a #1 1? HP
Olds, Type ‘A’, Shop No. I-8815; the age of a 5 HP Type
‘P’ New Holland, serial #3214; and the age of a Type
‘P’ 2 HP New Holland, serial #6486. Thank you.
WALTER E. SCHRAGE, 1219 Lawn Avenue, New Haven, Indiana 46774
says he has received letters asking we put his information to
readers in the column again: ‘If anyone wants year of IHC, 1904
to 1916 – 1 to 50 HP Moguls, 1 to 50 HP Titan, Mogul, Jr., Famous,
Victor, Tom Thumb, nonpariel Famous -please send part number, S/N
prefix letters, HP IHC M-1?-3-6-10 HP spoke flywheel McDeering.
L-IHC -one flywheel S/N, HP – 1? HP; LA-LB 1? 2? 3-5 H? S/N prefix
letter. Specify if 3-5 closed flywheel and radiator calley Hay
Press. Years for Maytags – Send base length and height of fuel tank
for FY-ED 4 -Models 11-16-19-26-31-N1M09 BG 111-92-92M (has elbow
offset long B/S 82) 2 different mags and base sizes. Vertical Elgin
and Maytag specify Mag or timer S/N – Twin 72D Wico, Twin 720
Eisemann, none mfg. 1943, 1944, 1945 – War II products. Twin 72 DS,
6 and 7 digits need S/N. I don’t buy stamps. SASE for
answer.’
B. C. CUSHING, 106 Anderson Hall, College of Idaho, Caldwell,
Idaho 83605 wants to share: ‘I have always had a problem with
cleaning brass until a fellow up at the Gapville, Vermont show
told, and showed me about some metal cleaner used by race drivers.
The stuff is quite good, best I’ve found and very economical.
It is called Auto World Metal Shine Magic Wadding from Auto
World Inc., 701 N. Keyser Avenue, Scranton, Pa. 18508.
I usually don’t push products, but when there is one that is
far superior – I tell of it. It costs $1.50 for a can and $1.50 for
shipping (regardless of number of cans). I would strongly suggest
trying this product on brass especially. I hope this helps someone
as I sure am glad I was told.
My new toy is a 1928 John Deere GP. I found in the New Hampshire
woods where it was being used to saw wood and it was still being
used until I got it. It is the 366th one made (from J. D. serial
numbers). Everyone in my home town of Grafton, Vermont came and
checked it out. My father, a friend, Franklin Perry and myself
brought it home and unloaded it on Christmas Day.
As I’ve said before and probably will again – thanks for a
great magazine and helping to foster good spirits among gas engine
hobbyists. My home address is Grafton, Vermont 05146.’
WALTER L. TURMAN, 4002 Richland Avenue N.W., Roanoke, Virginia
24012 heralds everyone with: ‘Happy New Year to Gas Engine
Magazine and everyone in Gas Engine Land. I recently found and
bought an old Stover engine without identification plate and would
appreciate information as I am in the process of restoring this
engine. Would like to know about the original color, horsepower,
rpm, etc. Engine is equipped with a Webster Tripolar Mag with
igniter, 3′ diameter flywheels, 6′ bore, 8′
stroke.’ (He’ll be awaiting your letters., friends.)
BILL STARKEY, 6701 Dorsey Road, Laytonsville, Maryland 20760 has
been so busy he has not had time to compile the third annual list
of farm machinery literature for sale. He wants to apologize to ail
you good folks for not getting it out this past year and wants you
to know it will be out sometime this year. Those who have asked for
it will receive a copy.
Others will learn of it from an ad in the magazines.
From TOMSTOSKOPF, Route 2, Waverly, Iowa 50677, a few thoughts:
‘I have a 3? HP Rock Island engine, serial #A-65863 – could
anyone tell me the year built and the original color? Also, does a
Monitor saw rig take a vertical or horizontal engine and what
size?’ (Please answer.)
GARY ROOKUS, 1266 Whiting S.W., Wyoming, Michigan 49509 needs
some information on an engine he recently purchased. He writes:
‘The engine is air-cooled and is horizontal type. If you look
at the engine from the flywheel end of the engine, the fan is on
the left side of the engine and is run with belt to flywheel. The
flywheels are 11′ in diameter and the engine length is 20′
overall. All parts have the letter J cast in them, such as on the
muffler is cast J20. The valves come out through two plugs on top
of the engine. This, I would guess, is considered a headless
engine. The paint on the engine is red. It is about a 1 HP engine.
I would appreciate any information on this engine, as there is no
name tag on it.’ (Help guys!)
JON SEIZLER, P.O. Box 26, Bagley, Minnesota 56621 wants to speak
to you through SMOKE RINGS: ‘IHC Collectors! I would like to
organize a National IHC gasoline engine meet and show. The bigger,
the better! I have already talked to a few people who are
interested. If we get enough interest, we would like to get one
together for this summer. If any of you IHC owners are interested
in attending, please write me at above address. Come on fellas,
let’s see several hundred letters, as that is the only way we
can get a Meet and Show to go – thousands attending is better. So
any owners of any style of IHC engine, tractor or even trucks –
Let’s get together! (Sounds like it might be interesting to IHC
lovers – but I don’t see how it could be done for this sunner,
Jon – but best wishes on the project.)
DONALD O’CONNOR, R.D. 2, Box 227, Williamantic, Connecticut
06226 sends us these pictures of his early American woodsplitter,
which he found last October. It was owned by Mr. Albert Coolidge of
Hebron, Connecticut, who did a very excellent job of rebuilding
almost all the wood on it. ‘I gather that when he first got it
she was just a lot of pieces. Anyway, was my wife ever thrilled.
She hadn’t been so excited since I dragged home a real shabby
looking ‘Domestic’ Gas Engine, not too long before this
either. My timing was a little off, two big expenses close together
in the same year. The machine was manufactured by Hildreth Bros, of
Harvard, Massachusetts. We don’t have any date, but it’s a
double, both sides work. The engine shown running, is a 1906 Famous
Hopper cooled. We had the serial number checked out by Mr. Walter
‘Doc’ Schrage, who must be pretty disgusted with me by now,
as I haven’t written him in a long, long time.’
DALE VOLGAMORE, R.R. 1, Almena, Kansas 67622 needs some help
from the readers: ‘I have a 4 cyl.
Kohler light plant engine Model D 6537, 110 volt, DC 1500 watts,
1000 rpm – anything concerning age and vital specifications. I have
written the Kohler Company and their response has been very
disappointing. Also anything on a Fairbanks Morse Z, style D,
self-oiling 2 HP engine, serial #881592.
I have read of people wanting a method of freeing rusted and
seized parts. I have put a whole engine in a tank of water for
several weeks and have always been able to remove pistons and
valves. You should remove all of the parts you can first, then the
water seems to soften the rust and doesn’t harm the
engine.’ (Now, isn’t that something, I’d think it would
make them get more rusty.)
A newcomer writes – from JUNIOR OLSON, Box 26, Leland, Illinois
60531: ‘Have received two copies of G.E.M. which I have read
and re-read many times. It is sure a great magazine! I’m
patiently waiting for the next issue.
‘Have just finished restoring this small gas engine pictured
and am wondering if anyone of your Smoke Ring readers can identify
it – it is tank-cooled, bore is 2?’, stroke 3′. It is
headless, has brass connecting rod, I drip oiler, 3 grease cups,
flywheels are 10′. It has removable main bearings, cylinder is
also removable 4-?’ screws. It uses Champion plug Model T and
buzz coil. It has chain driver camshaft and small brass carburetor.
Has holes for nameplate but it is missing. Also has roller rocker
arms.’
CRAIG T. WILEY, R.D. 1, Box 270, Polk, Ohio 44866 sends us a
picture of his engine with this writing: ‘I must say I enjoy
reading Gas Engine Magazine very much. I have just renewed my
subscription. I’m writing in hopes that maybe some fellow
readers can give me some information. Enclosed is a picture of my
one and only engine. It is a 1? HP Worthington engine, made in
Milwaukee at the gas engine works of the Worthington Pump and
Machinery Corp. The serial number is 41573. I guess some
Worthingtons were called ‘Engico’ if I’m not mistaken,
however, this is not one of those. I acquired the engine about
three years ago when I was 16 years old. I asked the owner how much
he would take for it, and since he knew me, the man told me I could
just have it if I would fix it up, so I loaded it up and hauled it
home. The engine sure was a sight-so much dirt and manure on it you
could not even see the mag or reduction gears. I don’t know how
long it had been since the engine had been used, but in two months
time it was running like new. I think there is supposed to be a tin
or iron splash guard over the rod but it is missing. The reason
I’m writing is so perhaps someone can give me some information
on this engine, especially age of the engine. Thanks, and I hope to
hear from someone- I’ve never seen much mention of the name
‘Worthington’ in G.E.M., so I hope someone can tell me
something about it.’
And with that, dear people, I am going to close and hope Spring
shows up real early this year – May God Bless You and Make
You a Blessing!
