Smoke Rings

This is the Spring issue and a good time for a lot of rebirth,
of new beginnings-in fact that is the now President Reagan’s
slogan-A New Beginning-and also the hostages are now free and home
again and certainly for them it will be a New Beginning-we Praise
the Lord and give thanks for their return and pray they will make
the expected recoveries-and in our jubilation, let us not forget
the eight men who gave their lives for the very purpose of getting
these 52 home again. Those families of the eight are also facing a
new beginning, not nearly as bright as the Americans that are now
back home. Let’s give them our prayers and support that they
may be able to face the future in God’s care. Don’t throw
away the yellow ribbons-we may be needing them again-as news has
told us a linguist missionary has been taken prisoner now- and how
about all the fellows that never came back from the Vietnam War-and
yet are believed to be still alive and prisoners?? Maybe we could
get a prayer chain started for them and bond together again in a
worthwhile cause. Let’s face it, it seems when the Americans
get enthused about a common goal, good things happen. And while we
are at it, let’s not forget to pray for the leaders of
national, state and local government.

To begin this time, there comes a letter from JOHN KLINKER,
11687 S.E. 33rd, Milwaukie, Oregon 97222: ‘To all of you
detectives in Gas Engine Land, I am looking for the decal that was
used on a 1915 Judson. The engine was built by Stover and shipped
to Winnipeg, Manitoba and sold under the name of Judson. The decal
is an oval about 2?’ wide and 5′ high with a large J in it.
If any of you have an engine with this on it, I would like a
tracing with color described or a color picture.’ (I always
tell you fellas not to ask for items, only information in this
column. I guess this is an exception. It seems it must be very hard
to find and he is really asking for a tracing or description. I
hope I have not slipped up on my own rules that I convey to you.
See if you can help John.)

ALLEN HABERMAN, 14321 Josephine Road, Largo, Florida 33540 sends
this: ‘I wait for your magazine to come and articles like the
Cletrac Tractor Collection are invaluable.

I just purchased a Terra-Trac tractor with a six foot hydrolic
blade, however, it has a Chevy V-8 in it. I am sure it has more
power at idle than the original had wide open. The model is GT34
and S.N. is 491. It was manufactured by the American Tractor
Company of Churubusco, Indiana. I would sincerely appreciate any
information I could get, regarding color, year, history, etc.
Thanks in advance.’

‘Maybe someone can answer my question,’ writes DUANE L.
McNABB, 4011 West Puget Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85021. ‘I have
a corn grinder that has the word Iowa on the hopper in two inch
letters with another word below, also two inches high and looks
like Bull, but I am not sure. There is no other identification. The
hopper was green, the rest was red. Any help on further
identification?’

The following letter is self explanatory: ‘I recently
acquired a 12 HP Hercules engine #125524 and would like to
correspond with owners of similar engines for some restoration
hints. My engine, which was possibly manufactured around 1915,
appears to I have been originally a kerosene throttling-governed
engine equipped with igniter. Through the years it has been
modified and now incorporates a Fairbanks Morse magneto and spark
plug. The previous owner had run it for many years on gasoline and
it is still operable on this fuel. I hope to restore it as
originally designed and welcome any helpful advice from your
readers. Anyone interested may write JOHN LOVETT at 3607 Thrushwood
Drive, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37415, or call me at (615) 875-0140.
Thanks very much.’

A picture and short letter comes from MERLIE K. LEWIS, Box 88,
Jasper, Arkansas 72641: ‘I recently found this engine in Texas
and it sure is a stranger to me. The name of it is Edwards, Engine
#18262 made in Springfield, Ohio. It is a 4 cycle, 2 cylinder, one
flywheel in the center of crank, hopper-cooled, bore 3′, stroke
5′. It is pretty old and has T model spark plugs which puts it
back in the 20s. It has the type American Bosch magneto and I
don’t know the horsepower or RPM.’ (Anyone out there have
one just like it-I imagine Merlie would like to hear from someone
with same type of engine.)

Another enthusiast seeking some help is DUANE COOPER, P.O. Box
593, Ludington, Michigan 49431: ‘Many thanks for a fine
magazine over the years. Now, I need some information on an
Appleton corn husker and shredder. It has a horse tongue, wooden
axles with steel wheels, all wooden construction except for the
blower, husking rolls-4 rolls-wooden and elevator for the husked
ears of corn. How old is it? All I can find is the Appleton decal
stating patent applied for in 1872. It is rated at 1100 RPM.

I even have a few husking pins and the tool to put them in the
rolls. It is painted red with green trim. Stored inside for years
and works great. Can anybody in Engine Land help me out? Thanks and
I am hoping to hear from you.’

CHESTER FOSLER, 621 D Street, Milford, Nebraska 68405 would like
to hear from anyone having a 2 cylinder opposed 8 HP New Way
engine. What is the correct shade of red and what color lettering
and stripes?

ARTHUR ERICKSON, 1117 S. Sante Fe, Salina, Kansas 67401 is
wondering if anyone would know what the color was of a Galloway gas
engine. (I imagine maybe they might vary, Art, according to model
or year, but I’m sure someone will answer you.)

A very informative letter comes from LEROY QUANDT, R.R. Ryder,
Dorth Dakota 58779: ‘For those that have had questions in this
past year’s issues of the Gas Engine Magazine on tractors, here
are some of the answers to them. First on the Farmall tractors:
This is the way the factory listing of serial numbers for these
models show the built dates. The Farmall Regular was built 1924
through 1932. The serial numbers for this model had prefix letters
QC. The model F-20 built 1932-39 using the letters FA. The model
F-30 built 1931-39 used the letters FB in the serial number. The
F-12 built 1932-38 using letters FS as did the F-14 which was built
1938 & 39. The F-12 Farmall tractor used a 3 by 4 type FL or
Waukesha engine in tractors FS-501 to FS 3034 but not in tractors
FS-600 to FS-608. These would be built in 1932 and 1933.

The Farmall tractors have the number stamped in the frame or on
the engine so if the manufacture plate is gone, one can still find
the number and then determine the year built. There is a complete
listing of all IHC Farmall tractors and their serial numbers by
year built still available.

The Hart Parr Oliver Row Crop 18-27 tractor with the single
front wheel began with serial number 100-001 in 1930. While the one
with dual front wheels began with number 103-301 in 1931.

A 1934 WC Allis Chalmers should be painted the Allis Chalmers
orange with black letters or decals. Isn’t this right? The
Allis Chalmers K-35 crawler tractor was built 1929 through
1943.

The Silver King tractors are painted a silver color.

The Co-Op tractors, sold through affiliates of the Farmers Union
Central Exchange, St. Paul, Minnesota, were painted a dark red.

I have a Custom Model C tractor serial number C903 built in the
late forties. This tractor has the six cylinder Chrysler engine;
this is the industrial number 5 engine. I would like to correspond
with anyone having a similar tractor.’

Seeking all and any information is D. E. SWEITZER, 300 N. Park
Avenue, Oskaloosa, Iowa 52577; re McCormick Deering on steel Model
22-36 and also on Farmall Regular & F-30 tractors and Oliver 99
Wheatland diesel wide front end tractor. He’ll be waiting for
the data.

Seeking information on his engines is SAM D. MENDENHALL, 1088 N.
West Street, Galesburg, Illinois 61401: ‘I need help from your
readers. I would like any technical data on the Aermotor;
horspower, date mfg., original colors. Did the Aermotor have a name
tag or just the imprint on the flywheels? Engine rotation direction
and any hints on timing would be appreciated. I am also restoring a
little Utilimotor manufactured by Johnson Motor Co., Waukegan,
Illinois, serial #U21208. Would like information on this motor, its
use, how old, and colors. Thank you for a fine magazine and any
help you might be able to give.’

MILTON W. FOX, RR 1, Bicknell, Indiana 47512 has some answers
for the column: ‘On page 15 of the Sept.-Oct. issue of GEM,
Alva Hosterman asked about the McCormick-Deering Fairway
tractor.

IHC wanted to tedder to the golf course grassways for mowing the
grass with tractors the steel lugs would tear up the grass, so IHC
took the lugs and the steel ribs (front wheels) off of the wheels
and called these tractors ‘Fairway.’

The tractors used on the golf courses were the Farmall
(Regular), W-12, 0-12, and maybe the Farmall F-20 was used as
‘Fairway’ tractors on the fairway of golf courses.

I enjoy your magazine and keep up the good work.

A letter of assistance comes to the readers as follows:
‘This note I send in reply to GEM, ‘Smoke Rings,’
November-December 1980, p. 17 concerning the magazine Plow and
Tractor which Sam Graham inquired about.

According to the Union List of Serials in Libraries in the
United States and Canada, 3rd ed., 1965, Plow and Tractor
was published in Moline, Illinois from Volume I through Volume 6,
number 2, October 1916-April 1921 and ceased. Only two libraries,
the University of California at Berkeley and the U.S. National
Agricultural Library, Washington, D.C., are listed as holding this
magazine and in both they are incomplete runs. No information is
given as to the publisher. My guess would be that it is a fairly
rare magazine.’ (This comes from DONALD L. SIEFKER, 705 W.
Annie Drive, Muncie, Indiana 47302 Thanks Don!)

‘Need some help from Smoke Rings,’ is the cry from CARL
L. BORGSTROM, 35530 HY D, Dousman, Wisconsin 53118. He continues:
‘While helping a friend dig an old Mack Bull Dog truck out of
its 40 year resting place, I stumbled on a one cylinder
hopper-cooled engine that had been resting a long time also.

It has no nameplate, but has CH & E Mfg. Co., Milw. on the
hopper. About a 5′ bore and 6′ stroke. Sure would like some
information before I start restoring. Really look forward to the
wealth of information I get from G.E.M.’

BOB SEELEY, R.R. 3, Box 176, Warrensburg, Missouri 64093 submits
the following: ‘I recently acquired a Gray Motor Company,
Detroit, Michigan #29 (cast on watter hopper) engine with a 3′
bore. I’ve got it all apart except for a stuck piston and it
appears to be almost complete. I’ve been told that these
engines were painted gray with black lettering. The flywheels may
have been gray, but the engine body shows some traces of red. I
would like to know the color scheme of this engine, also its RPM,
wiring diagram, and any additional data that may be
helpful.’

Anticipating spring, here is some springtime talk of a
Bloomer-but not a flower-from MOD WEST, R.D. 5, Waynesburg,
Pennsylvania 15370: ‘I just purchased a Bloomer engine made by
Bloomer Machine Works, Bloomer, Wisconsin, No. 1083, 1? HP. The
pushrod is missing and I would like to know the size and shape of
it and also how it is supported at the rocker arm end-and also the
paint color.

I enjoy your magazine very much and will be looking forward to
my new subscription.’

From one of our younger supporters is this letter from LYNWOOD
CRARY, RFD 1, Preston, Connecticut 06360: ‘I am 13 and have
been collecting engines for about two years. Recently, someone gave
me a 6′ Ericsson Hot Air Pumping engine, #13399. It was taken
apart and left in a field against a stone wall. Many parts were
trampled and broken. I believe I am missing the flywheels (?) and
the plate steel stand it bolts to. Since the cylinder was halfway
underground, it is pitted. Will the leather packing take up for
this? The fairly long piston is badly smashed and rusting through.
Does anybody have any ideas on how to make one? Also, what does the
pump piston packing look like? How does the water get up the pump
to the flange on the side at the cylinder? The pump is single
acting. The fire brick is broken and missing. How can this be
replaced? Thanks alot!’ (Now fellas, if you can help this young
inspired hobbyist, please write him; he has much interest and many
questions-let’s keep him interested. It’s young men like
this that will be the leaders in the future and keep the gas engine
hobby aglow.)

Chatting about gas engines, this letter comes from MANUEL E.
CASTRO, P.O. Box 364, Santa Margarita, California 93453: ‘I
have 20 gas engines, but I need information on two of my engines. I
have a 4 HP Fairbanks Morse & Co. vertical. It has 7 patent
dates on it. The first one is April 5, 1892 and the last one is
July 11, 1905 No. 794178. What I want to know about this engine is
why it has one flywheel bigger than the other one. One is 28′
and the other is 24’.

The other engine is an Aermotor of Chicago. It has 24′
flywheels and a Webster Tri-polar oscillator mag. It has around a
4′ bore. Don’t know the stroke. It is winter time and I
don’t want to take it apart. What I want to know about this
engine is the horsepower. A friend has one like it and he says it
is a 2? HP. I think it is a 3 HP. The man I bought it from says
it’s a 5 HP. I am ruling out the 5 HP. The fins are 18′
high. These are the only numbers on the engine. Flywheel numbers
are Z200 cylinder Z201 head Z206.

I enjoy the magazine real fine. Also, would like to know the
color of these engines.’ (Help ’em fellas, if
possible.)

Here’s a fellow enthusiast needing a lot of questions
answered as G. S. WEDMAN, Box 458, Dragton Valley, Alberta, Canada
TOE 0M0 writes: ‘Thanks for a very good and educational
magazine.

I am always interested in the many different engines and
restoration projects of the GEM subscribers.

To make the removal and cleaning of rusted parts almost
effortless, I am passing on this hint. Because of the oil industry
in our area, it is easy to obtain inhibited 14 to 28 percent HCL
acid. This does a tremendous job of cleaning and because of the
special inhibitor, it will not attack cast iron or steel unless it
is left submerged in the acid for days. One word of caution
though-the acid will dissolve brass, copper or aluminum so make
sure parts containing these metals are removed, or can be made, if
they are damaged.

Make sure the acid is inhibited, Dowell or Hallibuston. Oil well
servicing companies would have this acid. Please remember this
product is an acid and must be handled and stored with
extreme care.

Use goggles, rubber gloves and plastic containers. Use it
outdoors because of fumes and have a supply of clean water
available and immediately wash off any acid that accidentally comes
in contact with skin or clothing. Do not purchase more than you
need at one time and keep it locked up, labeled and away from
children.

Like a lot of products, it is only dangerous if safety is
ignored. Please dispose of spent acid safely and wash container and
cleaned parts well with water.

I also have a problem I would like some help with from the
readers. I have finally finished restoring my 8 cycle Aermotor, but
still would like a detailed sketch of the igniter, as to how it is
constructed. Also an actual size trace of the cam. The engine had a
homemade cam to make it into a 4 cycle and it was also converted to
Ford coil and plug ignition. I would like to restore it back to 8
cycle.

I also have a Canadian Wee McGregor built in Vancouver. I need
to know the color scheme for it. I hope some of the readers can be
of help.

Have any of the readers ever built a Stirling engine of about 2
to 5 HP? If so, please write since I am very interested in these
unique engines.’

I would like to remind the readers again-many of your letters
come through and you are asking for parts, manuals, etc. We
CANNOT use this in the column as it would not be
fair to the advertisers. If you need something in that category,
please send in an ad to be put in classified section. It can be
sent at the same time the information is sent for the Smoke Rings
Column. I am sure you will understand our request. The column is
for letters of information to and from the readers-all kinds of
questions, hints, answers to other letters, etc.

Color experts-take heed! – GLEN BRAUN, R.R. 1, Box 143,
LeCenter, Minnesota 56057 expresses his desires: ‘I would like
to get some information on the color and where I can get the paint
for a 4 WD Massey Harris tractor. Was the early one a kind of olive
green color?

Also, the color green they used on the Heider Rock Island
tractor and has anybody made the friction drive for the Heider and
what kind of material they used? Thank you. (He thanks you for he
is already expecting the answer.)

ROBERT J. MILLER, P.O. Box 644, White Salmon, Washington 98672
is seeking information on the Sieverkropp ? HP engine. He will
answer all letters.

A note from GEORGE HINDS, Lead, South Dakota 57754 tells us he
has a 6 HP Fairbanks Morse power engine, S.N. 552068 Model FBZ. He
especially needs information on the mag. It is American Bosch Type
No. AR33. ‘I have never seen this type before and need some
data on it. The rest I can manage. Would also like to know how old
it is. Letters will be greatly appreciated.’

‘From a very good friend I have acquired an 8 HP tank-cooled
McVicker automatic engine. It is the 1907 style, has the pushrod
activating mechanism on the cylinder flange. The bore is 6?’
the stroke 10′. This engine is quite rusty, was outside at
least forty years. I will rebuild or remake most of the small
parts. I would like to correspond with McVicker owners and in
particular with someone who has an 8 HP one. Will answer all
letters.’ This letter is self explanatory and comes from DALE
NICKERSON, Glasgow Road, Cassadaga, New York 14718.

We hear from RICHARD MERRETT, 220 Sunnyfield Drive, Horseheads,
New York 14845: ‘You may never know how many people you have
put in touch with each other through Smoke Rings. Some people in
this world are just wonderful nice (that’s a Dutch saying) and
you sure fall into that category (and I’m sure he means the
whole staff of G.E.M. (Thanks Richard)! My son and I have met some
of the most helpful people in the world since we have been in Gas
Engine Land. I am enclosing a copy of Fordson serial numbers that
as far as I know is accurate and it may be of help to other
enthusiasts. (I am sure the Fordson hobby folks will be especially
helpful.)

The Fordson Tractor Serial Number is stamped on the
right-hand side of the engine block immediately above the front
manifold stud.

‘Could any of our ‘antique engineers’ tell me the
dates of manufacture of Aermotors 8 cycle engines. No. CRAC has the
governor on the end of the cam shaft. The other engine #84P has the
governor in the flywheel. These are fine little engines.

Wish you would try to make ‘our’ magazine monthly, but
hurry up as I am on the downhill side of life. I get anxious
waiting two months for it.’

An enthusiastic subscriber writes: ‘I just want to tell you
I think GEM is the greatest! I’ve only been a reader for less
than a year and sure enjoy it.

I have a 2? HP engine S.N. 65427. Would someone in Engine Land
know when this was made?

Also, does anyone know if there is any connection between the
Old Warhorse manufactured by The Manson Campbell Company, Detroit,
Michigan and the Wilson DesMoines mfg. by Wilson Machinery Company
of DesMoines, Iowa? Thanks for a great magazine.’ (Thanks, for
enjoying it so much and telling us. This is from CHARLES WILSON,
3003 Graves, Waukegon, Illinois 60085.)

This writing comes from ED WOOD, Box 2, Monson, Massachusetts
01057: ‘Being a city boy, born and bred, I never heard of a hit
and miss engine even though I have been living in a small town for
the past eleven years. Well, anyway a friend of mine invited me to
an engine show last June 1980 so to make a short tale of this story
I subscribed to your wonderful GEM and have now in my budding
collection, three engines: two of which I have been able, through
the friendliness of old iron nuts and your magazine to restore for
the coming year.

The remaining engine is a 1? HP Sandwich for which I have an old
catalog and it tells me everything except the year it was built. I
am hoping one of the old timers out there could tell me by the
serial number. It is AB-30370, RPM 550, 3?’ bore, x 5′
stroke, with 17 x 1?’ flywheels. It has a Wico EK mag. and a
spark plug, but it does not have the speed changing device shown in
my book. So I have to assume it is older than the one in my
catalog. So if you please, Gents, I would sure appreciate a note. I
will answer all. Thanks again for your beautiful coverage of a
wonderful hobby.’

FLOYD FARVER, 2220 N. Farver Road, Elkton, Michigan 48731, phone
517-375-2544 has a request: Have taken the Gas Engine Magazine for
five years and enjoy it. I have several pieces of old iron of my
own.

My reason for writing is in the 1920s my dad had a Townsend
30-60. I think it was the only one in Michigan. Before I got
collecting it was sold. I heard it was around Fort Wayne, Indiana.
I looked for it but couldn’t find it. I thought by putting my
letter in the column someone might see it and get in touch with me.
I sure would like to know where it is-thank you.

A note comes from GAIL & JIM HICKEY, 1333 El Rey Avenue, El
Cajon, California 92021: ‘My wife and I plan to visit her home
in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada next year. If you could mention it
in your Smoke Rings column, ask if there are any gas engine
collectors in the area of Nova Scotia or Cape Breton Island and
give my address.’ (Tis done, Jim-now maybe you’ll hear from
some fellow enthusiasts.)

A picture and note from JOHN S. PALMER, 1019 Audrey Avenue,
Campbell, Callifornia 95008 says: ‘Hope some reader can help
me. I picked up this little engine in New Brunswick, Canada. I have
never seen another. The only information found is a small tag on
the INSIDE of the radiator shell, Modine Mfg. Co., Racine,
Wisconsin, serial #1536M1279. I would like to know date, color, HP,
etc. Thank you.’

Another new engine collector needs help as STANLEY CROSS, R.R.
Box 44, Lamar, Nebraska 69035 pens this one: ‘I have been
interested in old engines, tractors, trucks, etc. for quite a while
and within the last year have gotten hold of three gas engines to
start a collection. As of yet, I don’t think the bug has gotten
to this area in a big way, so I need a little help from your
readers.

My first and second purchases were the IHC line and I would like
manufacturing dates. Model 1?-2? LB S.N. LBA 86466 and 3-5 LB S.N.
25846. Both are in running condition. My third engine is a Maytag 2
cylinder, model 72D, S.N. 158924. I would like a date on this
engine, plus information on fuel mix and ignition help. As of yet,
I have no spark. I got a tickle from it once, then no more.’
(Help him out men-if you can.)

Following is a letter that may interest many of you-read on:
‘I’ve collected antique tractors now for 7 years and
currently have 49 of them. Two of my favorites are a 1918 10-20
Mogul and a 1938 W-40 McCormick. In the past two years the W-40 has
won 13 out of 15 antique tractor pulls centered. It’s a real
powerhouse!

One of my tractors isn’t so old, but is very unusual. It is
a 1944 203 Massey Harris #95283 powered by a 330 cubic inch 6
cylinder Continental engine. It is exactly like a 55 Massey except
for the engine. I only know of two others. I’d like to hear
from other 203 owners and will make up a list of how many are
left.

This goes along with another hobby I have-ever since 1977
I’ve written down the serial number for every rare and lots of
common make antique tractors built before 1940. I now have 3 large
notebooks filled with lists of over 5000 tractors and the serial
numbers of lots of them. This is a very interesting hobby as it is
fun to see how many of each old make and model tractor survived the
junk heap. It appears that some of the earlier built tractors are
totally extinct.

Believe it or not, I know of 111 30-60 Aultman Taylor tractors
still in existence. The two most popular older tractors are the
10-20 Titan and 16-30 H Oil Pull with around 180 of each left. I am
sure there are far more that I don’t know about.

Therefore, I’m announcing a worldwide tractor serial number
search (see display in Wanted column of this issue). I need to hear
from collectors all over the world, sending me serial numbers of
their tractors and others they know about. This will be a
tremendous job and will take a couple of years or more. At that
time, lists will be made available at cost to all collectors having
tractors listed. Also at that time I will send to GEM a list of
each make and model antique tractor showing how many of each are
still in existence. This should be quite interesting. Everyone
please help! Thanks!!’ (If you are interested in seeing this
possibility come true, please write BLAINE GRIGGS, Route 3, Box 99,
Nevada, Missouri 64772. It sounds like something that many of you
will be interested in seeing this dream completed.)

W. R. ROWLAND, 4940 Henry Cooper Road, Byctrus, Ohio 44820 would
like to correspond with any one in Engine Land on first, a Perkins
vertical side shaft as he is having trouble with the type of
ignition. And he would also like to hear from anyone that has a
Leonberter upright engine made in Bradford, Pennsylvania and any
information they would have to offer him.

A note comes from GEORGE W. COVILL, 46 Sandy Lane, Brook-field,
Connecticut 06804: ‘First things first-of all the magazines
that I read, GEM takes the cake. I have a combination gas engine
and water pump that has been buried in the swamp about 30 to 40
years. It is about 60′.. restored. It was made by the Kewanee
Water Supply Co., Kewanee, Illinois. Type 18, #1175, piston
diameter is 3?’ and 3?’ stroke. I would like to know the
year it was made, the horsepower and the color. Also the connection
between the water pump and engine for cooling. Thanks.’

Heads up, out there-this letter could mean you and it comes from
GLEN LIPPINCOTT, Star Route, Sciota, Pennsylvania 18354: ‘Our
Club is interested in putting on a tractor (antique) pull at one
annual show this coming year. About two years ago you published an
article about a show in Iowa, I believed, that mentioned an antique
tractor pullers association. The article went on to mention some of
the rules involved. Could you please help me in contacting those
folks in Iowa or members of that association through your Smoke
Rings column?’ (Here’s hoping the right folks read this
message.)

‘Would you please run this letter in the March-April issue
of GEM?’ asks R. GUY ADAMS, 136 Opal Drive, Rural Hall, North
Carolina 27045. He continues, ‘I need help with an engine I
bought in Virginia. The nameplate says (Friend), pump Model DP106,
Chassie Model S112, S. N. DX10819, Friend Mfg. Co., Gasport, New
York U.S.A. I think this engine was designed to run an Orchard
Spray. If anybody knows anything about this engine I would like to
hear from them. Any help would be appreciated. I think this engine
is about 2 HP. It is water-cooled and has one flywheel.’

Next communication comes from a novice in the field as DAVID M.
WILSON, P.O. Box 505, Carthage, North Carolina 28327, phone
919-947-5107 writes: ‘I am new at this, came down with the
fever at the Thresher’s Reunion at Denton, North Carolina.
After seeing and hearing the engines at the show, I just had to get
into it. So, I am now the owner of four engines. Three of them are
fairly common. However, I have a large problem with one big engine.
No one I talked to at the other North Carolina shows have ever
heard of it and it also has some features which are different from
any other I have seen. I have also been through stacks of back
issues of GEM with no luck. As you have probably guessed by now, I
really need some help!

I will try and describe this engine as best I can. Information
on the data plate is The Spotless Co., Inc. The South’s Mail
Order House, Richmond, Virginia. Engine Number 7742, HP 13. This
engine weighs about 3000-3500 pounds, has 48 inch flywheels, 8′
bore and 13′ stroke. It has a side camshaft which extends
beyond the head and operates a Webster Type JZ 52 Magneto (patented
Dec. 12, 1899). This magneto fits into the center front of the head
with points which break in head chamber. The intake valve is
located in a chamber which bolts on top of head. This chamber also
had a 1? elbow pipe which is necked down to form a venturi which
serves as carburetor. The exhaust valve is located in bottom of
head. The governor is a vertical ball type which is driven off a
worm gear from same gear on crankshaft that operates cam shaft. Any
information on this engine will be greatly appreciated.

I would also like to know what kind of magneto should be on a
Le-Roi one cylinder vertical hopper, engine no. 47267. I would like
to know what year this engine was built.’

Needing your help, LEO R. PETERSEN, 12921 Lorna Street, Garden
Grove, California 92641 writes: ‘I enjoy your magazine very
much and have received much needed information just reading it, but
I need to know something I have not come across-is there any
material or method to clean rust stain-discoloring from galvanized
sheet metal such as some farm machines used? This material is very
dull. Thank you.’ (He is already expecting an answer-I am sure
you won’t let him down.)

Lots of questions from LUKE E. ANDERSON, Box 54, Dillonvale,
Ohio 43917: ‘What is the difference between the new improved
Economy and the regular Economy engine? Also, what is the
horsepower of this engine with a bore of 3?’ and 5′ stroke?
This engine did not have a name tag for I.D. and on the mag the
band was ripped off. Except for two small pieces on the front part
of the mag near the head reads Mclnnerney Podlesak Patents
861-first part of numbers ripped off. I think the other numbers may
be 879. The other side of the mag toward the flywheel reads M 1
Milton Brown Patents, and on the bottom of the mag reads A-100-M
and the word Stewart. One other part has a number 346K30. I think
it might be a trip lever. Now, I need to know the year it was made,
what type of decals, how many, type of mag and what color was used?
I would appreciate very much hearing from someone who might have an
engine like mine. Thanks for a great magazine!’

A plea for help comes from AL GREGORITSCH, 3 Iby Street, South
Burlington, Vermont 05401. He would like help in identifying his
side shaft engine in his collection. The large cast brass nameplate
reads Atlantic Diaphram Pumping Engine, Harold L. Bond Company,
Boston, New York. The engine resembles an early Domestic side shaft
but with distinct differences especially in the water hopper and
governor areas. Anyone having information please write.

A couple questions come from M. A. PAFFRATH, Lower Ten Mile Lake
Road, Hackensack, Minnesota 56452 and he writes: ‘I have taken
the Gas Engine Magazine for four years and do look forward to each
issue.

This winter I have gotten a small upright Sandow, tank-cooled
engine. It should run on a battery and coil. This engine was made
by Detroit Motor Car Supply Co., Detroit, Michigan. No serial
number and no horsepower rating. Can someone tell me just how this
engine works?

I also have a 6 HP Goold, Shapley and Muir engine; it runs on
gasoline but uses a fuel injector instead of a carburetor. This
engine was made in Brantford, Ontario. Serial number 3055. It runs
very well; can someone give me some history on this company? Thank
you.’

A note from Maine as ENOCH S. COOK, 95 South High Street,
Bridgeton, Maine 04009 mails this: ‘Enjoy the magazine
immensely and find it most informative about a species that I am
only now learning about although have been car and truck mechanic
and general tinkerer for 40 years. Have restored a few engines for
others, but have yet to get 2 or 3 I have in running shape.

I am interested in the early forms ignition for water-hopper
jobs, non rotating mags, core set-ups etc. I have Rathban’s
book but did not find it adequate. HELP!

W. E. NEAL, 613 8th Avenue, Charles City, Iowa 50616 sends this
picture of a Milwaukee engine owned by Dick Nelson and they would
like information about these engines. So far no one has come up
with any help. This engine is shown at the Cedar Valley Engine
Show.

Keep the pencils out and answer some more interested folks-here
is a fellow subscriber that wants to know about a Fuller &
Johnson farm pump engine. He says he knows nothing
about it and can’t even find out the color. Please write ED
TRESO, 3428 E. Dodge Road, Clio, Michigan 48420.

A little bit apart from gas engines, but also a humorous and
diverting writing as WALT NIELAND, Route 2, Carroll, Iowa 51401
shares his poetic abilities with us: ‘Not much going on in the
Engine Department in the dead of winter, but I keep up my
correspondence with the wonderful people I have met through the
GEM. It also is the time of year to practice another of my hobbies,
basket weaving out of willow shoots. It is an ancient art brought
over from Germany by my grandfather in 1869. (Sounds different,
don’t you think, but that is what’s great about hobbies you
share with people, you can also learn of other hobbies.)

Say, are you aware that our fair city was named the Dull
Men’s Capitol of the U.S.? That right-and our gullible,
publicity-minded mid-westerners really went for it. I didn’t
rush right in and become a charter member, however, I realize I
would have made a prime candidate. I am still at it though, as I
did compose a limerick: I certainly hope I’m no cull-At my age
I’m just a husk or a hull-I never was witty-And definitely not
pretty-But I just enjoy being dull!! (Read on to his other poem.)
Walt says he composed this one after the reunion shows. – As I
attend all the shows-And witness all sorts of woes-Among the many
contenders-It’s always the naive pretenders-Seeking free advice
from the pros! (Not bad Walt-and it’s nice to get an amusing
letter like that sometimes.)

‘I need help from Gas Engine World and will try to answer
all mail,’ says ED WHITE, 572 Haywire Road, Winlock, Washington
98596: ‘I have an early F.M. Jack-of-all-trades engine. It is
different from others I have seen in that it has no brass
builder’s plate, or any indication it ever had one. Also it has
red paint that looks original. It is an upright, 4′ bore,
6′ stroke, 24′ x 1?’ flywheels, and in most respects,
other than a slightly different carburetor is about the same as
most 2 HP engines. Could this be a 1? HP and could F.M. have used
red paint at one time, and possibly, no I.D. except the decals on
the water tank?’

JOHN BOEHM, 5140 Molakini Way, Fair Oaks, California 95628
awaits your answers: ‘I recently acquired a 4 HP Ohio sideshaft
engine, serial number K4286. I would like to know if anyone can
help me determine the age, original paint color, how the carburetor
and fuel pump operate, and any other history on these engines. Also
the steering wheel and front wheels of my John Deere GP tractor
have the letters F&H cast into them along with different
casting numbers than John Deere used on the identical looking
parts. Does anyone have an explanation for this? You consistently
put out the best magazine in the gas engine field.’ (Thanks
John, we appreciate your comments and strive to please our GEM
family.)

Another picture for the column comes from HARVEY DANIEL-SON,
Route 2, Miltona, Minnesota 56354 with this note: ‘I would like
to know if anyone has a wood splitter, like mine in the picture. It
is patented in 1908. Has a 40′ diameter pulley on one side and
two flywheels on the other side. I run it with 1? HP John Deere.
Works good! I look forward to your GEM. I have about 40 gas
engines, including saw rigs and wood splitters.’

Appreciation remarks come from GORDON SOLOMON, Route 1, Almena,
Kansas 67622: ‘Thanks to all the people that wrote about my
questions on my F-M 3 HP Z style C engine and the International LB
1?, 2? motor with pump jack. I will share the information with you
readers. The F-M was made in 1947. Some of the paint colors
suggested for it were Chevy truck chrome green, Krylon hunter
green, Martin Senour #7888 and Sherwin Williams green. Most people
thought that the fabric riveted to the pulley was to increase the
diameter, therefore speeding up machinery without adding to RPM of
the engine. Also was informed that the International LB engines
were made from 1939-1948.’

WALTER L. TURMAN, 400 E. Richland Avenue, N.W., Roanoke,
Virginia 24012 recently bought a 4? HP engine No. 99771. The name
is John M. Smyth, Mdse. Co., Chicago, Illinois. What years was this
company in business? What company made this engine and approximate
year built? The engine is battery ignition, using a mechanical
igniter hit and miss governor. Thanks for a great
magazine!’

Perhaps you fellow engine lovers could help GREGORY J. NOVAK,
4365 Woodland Drive, Woodbury, Minnesota, even though this is a
different type engine. Read his problem: ‘I am a gas engine
enthusiast with just a few engines. I know this magazine is for
engines and tractors mostly, but I recently acquired a 1929 Dodge
Brothers touring car. It has a beautiful gas engine under the hood.
I have many questions about this relic. Does anybody know if they
were all black or if they had some two-tone black and blue ones
also? Did they have heaters back then? About the engine?? Did they
make any 6 cylinder Dodge Brothers? Was the 1926 engine black with
6 volt starter the same as the 1925 engine black with 12 volt
starter? Hope I can get some help. Thank you.’

Seeking help from the GEM readers, this letter comes from BOB
SCOTT, 401 Pittsdowne Road, Columbia, South Carolina 29210:
‘Have been a regular reader of GEM for about two years now and
really look forward to each issue. I have moved three times during
this time so could not pursue the hobby too much. However, have
picked up during this time 2 engines I need help with. I have not
seen anywhere the color schemes of any engines. Would like to see
the standard colors written up in an article, at least for most of
the common engines. Also an article showing that engines with
certain serial numbers are made during certain years. Again for the
common ones only. I have a Witte, 1? HP with serial #58491. Also a
Fairbanks-Morse ‘Z’ 3 HP with a overhead radiator and open
crankshaft. Can find no serial number on this engine. Would like to
know what color they should be and the age if possible. Any
information will be appreciated.

(As you will notice, Bob we do have information coming in like
that as in this month’s column we have several engines with
information listed that will aid many readers. And perhaps you will
get some letters.)

Counting on hearing from you is JIM CHARLTON, Box 5304, Spokane,
Washington 99205: ‘Can anyone out in Engine Land identify this
engine for me as to the make, model, horsepower, year etc.

On top of the hopper is stamped number 97823. It has 36′
flywheels, 2?’ wide with the word SPARK stamped on it. The
igniter appears to be on the right hand side of the engine when
looking from the rear forward. What I think is a intake pipe has
20JL on it. Con rod has 200L on it and the rocker arm has 27RC on
it.

On the front of the hopper there are four holes where a
nameplate goes and on top of the hopper there are two holes for a
plate. I will answer all letters and I am very anxious to hear from
you as I want to get started restoring this engine.

Thanks to Smoke Rings, you are a real service to those of us in
need.

An amusing writing comes from RALPH L. KNAPP, 188 W. Rosemary
Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36109: ‘I enjoyed reading the letters
I received giving me information about the serial numbers and dates
of manufacture of the Fairbanks Morse engines. I also received
parts lists and other data about the Model T which I have. All the
people who wrote were as friendly and real and are loaded with very
interesting stories about their engine experiences and
collections.

My engine was astounded at seeing (its, his, her) serial number
in print. He made several expressions about the gender bit. She
finally said, ‘If everything was explained to us, we still
wouldn’t understand. It likes to be addressed in any of the
three (its, his, her) ways. He also told me a little about his
first owner. – I run all day, got low on oil-My gasket blistered
when my water boiled. Then my master tends his big machine-And
fills my tank with gasoline FM-T-108589. (Then he spoke of times
when it really got rough, then better) …. Then all at once, I
started to glow – I was the attraction in a Gas Engine Show! (Now
he tells me he knew this all the time.) I’m bolted together and
shipped away-And given a job without any pay-Now don’t get
alarmed, I’ve got it hacked-My program includes a big
comeback!’ (Not bad Ralph, we do have some budding poets this
time, don’t we?)

Another picture comes from STILES BRADLEY, Box 25, Pavilion, New
York 14525: The engine is a 14 HP Jacobson #1020. It is one of the
first attempts to throttle govern an engine. The intake valve
pushrod pushes the rocker arm and then jumps off the end of the
rocker arm. The faster the engine goes, the sooner the pushrod
jumps off the rocker arm, thus limiting the amount of intake
charge. It has balanced crankshaft, an Elkhart magneto, brass
ignitor rod and exhaust rocker arm. The year is approximately 1901.
I would be interested to know if anyone else has one like it.

And now we must end this missal. We get lots of letters for this
column and that is good. You all enjoy reading each other’s
letters, ideas, suggestions and helpful advice. Sometimes, I must
cut certain parts out of the letters or change them a bit, but I
try to get them all in in full content as possible. May I close
with just a few thoughts: It is more important to watch how a man
lives than to listen to what he says. – – Do not face the day until
you have faced God.—Life is like a ladder, every step we take is
either up or down. – – The person who is pulling on the oars
usually hasn’t time to rock the boat.

Bye Bye – Love Ya All – Get ready for the Shows!