Hi to all you wonderful people in the G.E.M. family – it’s
time to get this magazine to the printers again, and right now,
I’m feeling pretty horrible – I have a bad cold and all that
goes with it – the sore throat, and congestion moving down into the
chest – but I’m praising the Lord any how – you know God tells
us in his word to give Thanks in all things, and I must say I am
just learning how to do that – no matter what comes, Praise God
anyhow – there is a reason for whatever is happening – it’s
helping you grow spiritually. Of course you realize, many problems
are brought on by our own disobedience to God by not caring for our
bodies as he would have us do – think about it! A thought came to
me though through this cold – wouldn’t it be wonderful if we
could spread Christian Love as easily as we do the common cold? How
about that – wouldn’t that be great? And then if it would only
last! Oh well, it’s a beautiful thought, but I’ve got to
get on with the letters.
FRED BURKHARDT, JR., Route 3, Box 136, Robstown, Texas 78380
writes: ‘I have been receiving G.E.M. for almost a year and
enjoy it very much. I am hoping someone can help me with a one
cylinder Fairbanks Morse Z. It is a 3 HP, 450 RPM, has throttling
governor, breaker point type igniter, and a gear driven Sumter
Electric Co. magneto from Chicago, Illinois.
I bought a new set of piston rings that according to the S.N.
the rings I got are correct, they fit the piston and groove, but
the 2nd and 3rd piston grooves have a lug or pin imbeded to keep
the rings from turning. The old rings are angle cut and have a
notch cut in one side where they come together. This is on the
bottom side of the piston. The new rings are straight cut and have
no notch. Should I file out the lug in the piston groove or try to
file a notch in the new rings? What is the reason for the
lugs?’ (Help him out fellows – I can present the problems, but
I can’t give the answers.)
Many of you folks have been asking about the cookbooks and how
to get one and etc. Don’t worry, when they are available, well
have them advertised, but that won’t be for a long time yet. If
you are interested in sending a recipe in, pick out a favorite or
up to three recipes, but no more than that from one person and well
see if we can find a place in the book for them.
ROBERT P. WEIS, Box 668, Mount Hermon, Massachusetts 01354 is
still looking for help on his Sandwich baler. He has a 1923
Sandwich Hay Press with a Big Six Kerosene engine which he is
restoring. He had run an ad in our GEM asking for literature on
this machine to buy or borrow and he has had no answers – How about
it? He would like to hear from you.
We’re happy to welcome another new club under the name of
Mammoth Cave Antique Engine and Tractor Association, Inc. of Cave
City, Kentucky 42127. SYDNEY BUNNELL, President sent along a short
report of how they got started:
‘Our first meeting was a dinner get together at Howard
Johnsons in Cave City, Ky. Feb. 20. We had over 100 people at that
meeting, much interest & enthusiasm was shown. At this time
plans were made to Charter the Mammoth Cave Antique Engine &
Tractor Assn. Inc. This was done in accordance with the laws of The
Commonwealth of Ky.
A tentative set of by laws was adopted and officers elected to
be put into effect after our charter was granted March 20,
1976.
Charter memberships & certificates were issued to those
taking part in the initial organization. The effective year
beginning April 1, 56 Charter memberships were issued plus 6
honorary cert, one of these was issued to G.E.M. Thought that you
might like it. As these are like the old engines there will be no
more.
Our first Semi-Annual meeting will be held at Lonzo & Oscars
park 2 miles west of Cave City. Ky. on Hwy. 70, May, 29 & 30.
We plan another show in early Oct. Our members are from 5 to more
than 70 & own more than 450 engines & 25 tractors.’
Good Luck to the new club and thank you for an Honorary Charter
Membership for the Gas Engine Magazine – I’m sure well be
hearing from you folks as your organization grows.
GERALD HAIGH, 5390 Las Llajas Canyon Road, Semi Valley,
California 93065 is seeking information on the Bates Steel Mule
-any of you fellows know anything -please write him. He has
recently written a book called (Straw Roads) in which the Steel
Mule is mentioned. He would like to know more of this engine and
would appreciate pictures.
Ronald O. Smith, 1911 Harper Road, Mason, Michigan 45854 who is
Secretary of Central Michigan Antique Tractor and Engine Club, Inc.
says: ‘Here an Neverrest Farm, our parade tractor is nearing
completion, except for the painting. It is going to be something
you have never seen before.’
‘I am Sec.-Treas. of the Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor
Assn. Branch 15. As a news item for you we are hosting the National
Convention of EDGE&TA this year. It will be held on the grounds
of Western Antique Power Inc. on July 30, 31 & Aug. 1. Anyone
wishing information on this event please contact me. Jack Versteeg,
3935 Cooley Dr. N.E. Salem, Ore. 97303. I will send them a map of
the area and other pertinent information.’
BOB HAND, 3801 Kaw Drive, Kansas City, Kansas 66102 would like
to know if there are enough people to form a Gas Engine Club in
Kansas City, Missouri or Kansas City, Kansas and surrounding
territory. If interested, call Bob at 913-621-0750.
From J. REX HAVER, 643 Bellefont Avenue, Lock Haven,
Pennsylvania 17745 sent a letter which will interest many of you
readers.
‘This is a report on my letter, published in the
November-December G.E.M. about the upright Maytag. I received
several letters from Maine to Idaho.
First about colors: Both red and green colors were mentioned as
used on the Maytag Washing Machine. No one was able to tell me if
one company used red and the other green. Both Maytag and Elgin
sold to other customers as was shown by copies of early
advertising, I received. One gentleman said he had an upright,
painted olive drab. This engine, he thought had been used by the
Armed Forces during World War I.
Second, about the extra pipe on the gas tank: apparently this is
one of a kind. No one reported having seen one. Three possible
reasons were given:
1. For more venting
2. To get more gas into the tank
3. For ease of filling the tank About the sides of the gas
tank; several answers were given to this question and they all
agree. The sloping sides were made by Elgin Wheel and Engine
Company and the straight sides were made by Maytag. I wish to thank
all who sent me letters. I appreciate your assistance very
much.’
MUNRO TASKER, 814 S. Sophia Street, Homer, Michigan 49245 gives
some help: ‘I have an induction coil (vibrator coil) that goes
with a Fairbanks-Morse Eclipse engine. The points were rusted and
worn away, also the spring steel on the vibrator was cracked half
the width. The coil appeared to be in good condition. So how can I
repair the points?
A friend suggested using a piece of feeler gauge for the
vibrator so I did just that, took a .006 feeler gauge for the
spring steel, took the Platinum tips out of old lawn mower points
and replaced the points very carefully. It works! I thought
somebody in Gas Engine Land could use this trick. And I look
forward to the next issue of G.E.M.’
ALVIN SAND A, R.R.2, Box 66, Williston, North Dakota 58801
wishes to comment: ‘In regard to the question asked by Samuel
Nixon, in the Jan.-Feb. issue about crown pulleys. This is what it
says in the 1917 Hawkins Electrical Guide.
Belts in motion will always run to the highest side of a pulley;
this is due partially to the greater speed in feet per minute
developed at that point owing to the greater circumference of the
pulley, and also to the effects of centrifugal force.
If, therefore, the highest sides of both pulleys be in line with
each other, and the shafts of the respective pulleys be parallel to
each other, there will be no tendency for the belt to leave the
pulleys when once in its proper position. In order that these
conditions be maintained, the belt should be no more than tight
enough to prevent slipping, and the distance between the centers of
the pulleys should be approximately 3.5 times the diameter of the
larger one.’
MITCH MAYBORN, 3164 Whitehall, Dallas, Texas 75229, says:
‘Hi Folks, I don’t know how it is with you, but I have to
learn some lessons the hard way. We were taking apart a Lawrence
model 75B engine (this is an aircraft type, 5-cylinder air-cooled
radial) and had not one, but five stuck cylinders. We tried all
sorts of methods for loosening them up and since they didn’t
work, I won’t go into it. But one did work, and it worked so
slick, I thought I would pass it on to some of you guys with
similar problems.
The idea is that you can use hydraulics (this is sort of what is
happening with those folks who use a grease gun, only with more
pressure) to (1) force a penetrating fluid into the space between
cylinder, piston and rings and (2) to additionally use the
hydraulic pressure to force them apart. You can’t do this with
valves open though and is a problem if they are stuck open.
Use an old spark .plug and weld or braze on a hydraulic fitting.
Pump up the hand pump and hold the pressure. The beauty of
hydraulics (as opposed to pneumatics) is that when it moves the
least bit, the pressure falls to zero. Don’t try this with air
as you can get a real bang out of the job! It is a bit messy, but
gosh, it sure removes stuck pistons. Don’t worry about the
internal pressure, these things hold lots more pressure than you
will put on it with hydraulics – remember what the force of the
mixture explosion is and you won’t worry about it.
We have several old gas engines, a FM ‘D’, a FM Z 1-1/2
hp with a FM 3 x 3-1/2 compressor and a Myers water pump. The last
items are good boat anchors right now and we’ll have an
opportunity to try out our ‘hydraulic piston pusher’ on all
of them before they run again.
We are working on a collection of Menasco aircraft engines (this
is our real ‘thing’) and have a classified ad in the back
looking for them. Anna Mae (rightly so) says I have to have this
and I’m glad to run it because GEM is a super magazine and
deserves our support. It is in the WANTED section under MENASCO and
I also list a Wisconsin engine to swap if anyone is looking for
one. Good luck with your engines.’
H. T. NEAL, Jr., 1101 South 104th, Edwardsville, Kansas 66111
has a 5 HP Witte, S/N 89114 and he would like to know what color it
was and what year it was made. He also has a Fairbanks Morse 2 HP Z
Style D S/N 832641 – he would like to hear from you fellows if you
have information for him.
GEORGE WALSLEY, 898 Olean Road, East Aurora, New York 14052
sends this nice letter: ‘I am very new to the wonderful world
of gas and steam. Your magazine has been a good source of
information, as my feet seem to be getting wetter and wetter in the
business.
I wonder if you could tell me just what was the first gas
tractor built in the United States? Also, who and what was the
first tractor built in this country? I hope you can help me so I
can pass the information on to a group of fellows at work. Also,
are there any John Deere clubs?’
HAROLD L. RETTIG, R.R. #1, Raw son, Ohio 45881 has some cordial
words: ‘I have a problem and maybe our friends who read the
G.E.M. could help me. I am restoring a 10-20 Case (yes, that’s
right, a Case) gas tractor that was made from 1915 to 1918 and I
would like to correspond with others who may have a tractor like
this or may know someone who has one.
And then he goes on: ‘It must give you a good feeling to
know that you help us out here in your Reader Land with so many
problems. Please keep up the good work and thanks for helping
me’ (Yes, it does give me a good feeling to know people
are being helped through this column, but it is the other readers
and gas buffs that provide the answers, as I do not know very much
about the problems, but I’m happy to be the go between for the
correspondence ).
And from 13 year old FRED TULL, R.R. #2, Box 51 La Moille,
Illinois 61330 is a letter: ‘I have a 1937 F-20 tractor with a
stuck motor. I’ve tried everything to get it loose. Would
someone help me to get it loose? I also want to know if the tractor
was gray or red?’
HOWARD E. PRAY, 28 Park Lane Circle, Bettendorf, Iowa 52722
speaks out: ‘I have been an engine collector for about a year
and have just traded for a new engine. It is a 2 HP National and
has a carburetor that is not original, nor is the ignition
system.
I would like to ask the Smoke Ring readers if they can give me
any information on the carburetor, fuel pump, magneto or any other
things that would make this engine seem original again. The
flywheels are 3 inches wide with a 24-1/2 inch diameter. The
previous owner said the engine weighs about 1200 pounds. The number
604 is cast in the head and there is no nameplate or
identification.
I enjoy reading the G.E.M. and the Smoke Rings. I have used some
of the information in it.’
GLEE C. BERRY, 1281 First Avenue, Salinas, California 93901
says: ‘I guess I have never written, other than sending in my
annual check for subscriptions. This time I want to say what a
wonderful magazine you have. With the price of everything going up
and the work you have to do to get each issue ready, I consider
your magazine a bargain.
The pictures are of my latest restoration job. I have restored a
number of engines. This Stickney fascinated me more than any other
engine, with the unique and wonderful engineering that went into
the building of this engine.
I had help with measurements and description of some missing
parts from Richard A. Ambrose, Cabot, Pennsylvania. Incidentally,
you had an article about his 1 3/4 HP Stickney less than a year
ago. Also received fine reprint books and other help from Richard
Geyer, De Smet, S. Dakota. Many thanks to both of these folks for
their help.
This is 1 3/4 HP Stickney less than a year ago. Also received
fine reprint books and other help from Richard Geyer, De Smet,
S.
To get back to my engine, it is Ser. No. 23108 and 1911
according to Mr. Geyer. Basically the engine was in good condition
when I obtained it. Missing parts were needle valve, complete coil
assembly, gas tank and cover for governor. I put a plexiglass cover
over governor so people can see what brains of the engine looks
like. The igniter required extensive machine work. My son works in
a cabinet shop and did a wonderful job on oak skids. I spent ten
months of spare time on engine. It started easily first time
February 15, 19761
The igniter required extensive machine work. My son works in a
cabinet shop and did a wonderful job on oak skids. I spent ten
months of spare time on engine. It started easily first time
February 15, 19761
R. J. HICKOK & SON, Amboy, Minnesota 56010 – a letter from
R. J. tells us: ‘There are a few engines in the country yet,
hid back in an old shed or laying out in the grove sank down in the
dirt. We found one recently behind a shed. It’s a 3 HP John
Deere, Moline, Illinois with the picture of a deer embossed on the
sides of the water jacket. When was this engine built and how many
are there left? Now, if everyone that has one will write and tell
us here at Amboy, I’ll write the magazine and tell them how
many and they will print it. It would be very interesting to know
how many and where they are.
Mr. Frank Bias at Wells, Minnesota has one, but it’s the
only one that we have ever seen or heard of besides ours. We would
really appreciate hearing from you.’
ARMIN HELGESON, Route 1, Genoa, Wisconsin 54632 would like to
know the right colors to paint his Galloway engine. Hell be
thankful to anyone who can help him.’
JIM HOLBROOK, Route 1, Box 161, Arden, North Carolina 28704 is
looking for someone that would help him with information on
rebuilding a 4 HP International Harvester Famous engine* He would
also like to know the true color of the Fairbanks Morse Z type
engine. Jim is new at this collection of engines and looks forward
to our magazine arrival every issue. Says he has been able to find
more engines than he has money, in those mountains. He is anxious
to hear from some of the North Carolina neighbors.
ALLEN R. LAVATURE, 602 W. 12th Street, Trenton, Missouri 64683
speaks out: ‘I thoroughly enjoy the magazine. In my search for
engines, I have met some really fine people. Am also learning that
I have much to learn regarding them. I still protest of those who
locate these engines and then hold them for speculation. Guess
that’s the way it is!
I have found a few, most from the original owners, who have
supplied me with information and a few books or phamplets that came
with them. I located one in a hedge row with an 8′ tree growing
up through skids and frame. No missing parts, and after total
disassembly, sand blasting, paint, rebuilding of a few parts, it
now looks, and is, like new!
I suppose only someone who feels about these engines as I do,
can fully appreciate the feeling of knowing that after many years
of disuse, left as junk and discarded; with love, work and
patience, they fire and run as they once did. TREMENDOUS!!’
(And I hear a lot of Amens to that, don’t I, Fellows)?
JAMES A. SMITH, Route 1, Abbotsford, Wisconsin 54405 writes us:
‘Just a note to let you know how much I enjoy the Gas Engine
Magazine. I was introduced to Jim Gutenberger of Colby, Wis., and
enjoyed reading all his back issues.
I would appreciate hearing from someone owning or having
information on Taylor Vacuum engines made in Elgin, Illinois.
Gas engines I now own are a 2 H P Taylor Vacuum S/N 14817 and a
2-1/4 HP Galloway S/N 032669. Thank you and I am looking forward to
my first issue of G.E.M.’
PAUL DAILEY, R.R. 4, Box 214, Kokomo, Indiana 46901 would like
to know what is the nearest thing to a Briggs and Stratton engine –
is there any make of engine similar to it? Please write him if you
have an answer.
FREDERIC A. ROTHERY, 495 Mountain Road, Wilbraham, Massachusetts
01095 wishes to share this: ‘I recently acquired a little
air-cooled horizontal engine. It was tied to a pump on an old
horse-drawn spraying rig and weighs about 260 pounds. It has a 4
inch bore and a 5 inch stroke, 18 inch 6-spoke flywheels and no
name or date plate. The only identifying marks are the letters BWT
cast into the lower part of the cylinder and BWS cast into the side
of the engine bed. I was told that it was an Ideal vintage 1907 to
1910. If anyone knows where I could find more information on this
engine, I would appreciate hearing.’
FRANK P. PFLEGL, R.D. 1, Box 7-B, Catskill, New York 12414 sent
me one of the membership cards of the organization of which he is
President – Hudson Mohawk Chapter, Pioneer Gas Engine Association,
Inc. He thought you folks might be interested in the story printed
on the back of card entitled: ‘The Burgett’ – These small
engines ranging in horsepower from one-half to three were precisely
designed and manufactured at the turn of the century in the
Schoharie County Village of Middleburgh, New York, by Edward
Burgett, a renowned machinist and mechanic. Burgett’s designs
were incorporated into patterns in the Middleburgh shop from whence
they journeyed to Albany by horse and wagon for casting. Castings
were then finished by Burgett to produce a machine which provided
inexpensive power for water pumps, cream separators, printed
presses and various light power needs. (See picture of the 1900
Burgett Gas Engine).
PAUL ANDERSON, R.R. #2, Box 143, Marseilles, Illinois 61341
tells us: ‘I am the proud owner of a beautiful little 1-1/2
Economy engine. She’s a fine running engine however I have two
problems which I hope some G.E.M. reader might be able to help me
with. First is color. I’ve had one person tell me he thinks
orange-red is the original color, with decal lettered in pea or
light green shadowed in dark green. I have also seen a dark red
engine lettered in yellow. One, the other, both, or neither?
The other problem is the date. The engine, number 59462, is the
type with the more squarish-shaped water hopper which some have
said is earlier than the ones with the more rounded hopper.
That’s probably not enough info to go on but that’s about
all I know myself. Any venture on an approximate year?’
Had a word from ROBERT R. ELLIS, Box 87, Keedysville, Maryland
21756 who sent in his subscription, said he had just read his first
copy and would like to get the magazine forever more.
Also nice words from DAVE KONZ, R.R.I, Cold Spring, Minnesota
56320 who stated: ‘I am taking the time out just to express how
very happy I am with your magazine. It was just a year ago now when
an engine friend of mine asked me if I got your magazine. It’s
just too bad that I never knew about it before, because I would
surely have been getting it sooner. It is the best reading I know
of anywhere. When I get the magazine, I start from the front and
don’t quit until I’ve been through it word for word.
I’m sure I’m not the first to say this, but yours is a
GREAT MAGAZINE!’ (Thanks to both fellows for their lovable
comments and interest.)
WM. L. CUNNINGHAM, 4335 Barker St., S.E., Washington, D.C. 20019
writes: ‘I would like to hear from anyone that owns or knows
anything about the 32 volt Westinghouse light plant made in the
late twenties, and the 2 cylinder Onan water cooled 110 volt a.c.
W2C series generating plants.’
From EARLE HUBBS, 101 Martin Grove Road, Islington, Ontario,
Canada M9B 4K6 ‘May I say Thank You for a most
informative and helpful magazine. I started to acquire and restore
gas engines two years ago and have an old Bulldog engine I need
information on -It is a 5-1/2′ bore 6′ stroke, double,
spoked flywheels 26′ diameter with 2 3/4′ face. Crankshaft
and connecting rod bearing journals are 2’. One flywheel has
letters cast on it Bulldog W-4. The other has letters H & W
cast on it. Number stamped on cylinder head is 16,005. Cam shaft
gear is straight tooth, 52 teeth x 3/4′ wide x 6 3/4′ O.D.
Crank shaft gear is a 13 tooth one.
I would like the following information: Where was this engine
made and by whom? What is its rated horsepower? What is the speed
it should run? What type of governor should it have as the governor
is missing? What type of ignition was it originally equipped with?
It has a make-shift ignition using a spark plug, Model T coil and
battery, but suspect it was hit and miss ignition.
I would like to hear from someone with this same make of engine
that I can correspond with to get more data and pictures of the
original parts, if possible.’
There is a new organization that was too late to be listed in
the Directory for this year, but they will hold their first show
July 3, 4, 5, 1976 at the Kankakee Fairgrounds in Kankakee,
Illinois and the organization is called (Thee Olde Time Farm Show).
They boast 38 members and 110 gas engines as of this writing, so
contact William A. Yohnka, 1080 8th Street, Kankakee, Illinois
60901 if you can give him any help or want information.
Another group that has really organized after working at it a
few years is in Illinois. The letter from JIMMIE H. RUSSELL, 1001
Mc-Cambridge Avenue, Madison, Illinois 62060 as follows:
‘For the past 4 years, several fellows have displayed
antique tractors, engines, and farm machinery at the (Illinois)
Bond County Fair. Interest in the displays and the number of
participants has increased to the point that a club was organized
last November. Three meetings have been held, the 3rd being an
indoor ‘gas-up’, on Feb. 15th.
There are 55 charter members, representing 8 counties. The group
selected as a name: Bond County Antique Machinery Club. The
following officers were selected: President: Michael Evans of
Pocahontas; Vice-President; John Anthony of Greenville; and
Secretary-Treasurer; Jim Russell of Oblong and Madison.
Last year’s show had over 45 antique tractors, both gas and
steam. There were over 100 gas engines, and several other pieces of
working machinery. All displays are under roof (except for the
overflow!) and are under 24 hour guard. Being held in conjunction
with the County Fair, there is the usual flea market, and
‘ladies tent’. This year’s show dates are August 21 to
27.
DAN BILKA, Route 2, Box 211, Glen Cove Road, Darlington,
Maryland 21034 writes: ‘I never knew there was such a magazine
until a friend of mine outside of Arlington, Virginia told me about
it – Mike Powers is his name.
As of now, I am working on two engines, one is an Economy 1-1/2
HP, on which I need more information and will appreciate
anyone’s help.’
From MILTON W. FOX, R.R. #1, Bicknell, Indiana 47512, this
information: ‘I am a new reader of GEM and think it’s
great. Wouldn’t do without it.
Mr. Frank Manes’s letter in the Jan.-Feb. issue of GEM
brings my letter. As far as this writer knows, IHC did not mfg. a
18-32 tractor, however IHC did mfg. a 18-35 tractor in 1913 thru
1916.
The 22-36 tractor is really a McCormick-Deering 15-30 (22-36)
tractor mfg. by International Harvester Co. McCormick-Deering
15-30: GPS-58 (4 1/2 x 6 in. Pistons) mfg. 1921-1929, Serial Nos.
112-99925, Neb. Tests Nos. 87 & 130. McCormick-Deering 15-0
\22-36]; GPS-58 (4 3/4 x 6 in. Pistons) mfg./1929 ¦1934, Serial
Nos. 99926-157477, Neb. test No. 156. The motor in this tractor, I
believe is a P300. The parts Catalog for this tractor is; TC-5-B,
McCormick-Deering, 15-30 (4 3/4′ x 6′), Gear Drive Tractor
(TG 99926 M and up). F-30 [IHC); Regular & Narrow tread, the
narrow tread would be about 8 ins. narrower across the rear
axles like-wise the drawbar would also be 8 ins. narrower
too. McCormick-Deering threshing machines; IHC, I believe, quite
mfg. these about 1938.’
HOWARD M. JOHNSON, 6009 Simpson Avenue, North Hollywood,
California 91606 is inquiring about an anvil which he recently
purchased at Mariposa, California. The anvil was made in England
and has the name (Henry Wright) stamped on side. Would anyone know
how old this tool could be? If so, please write to Howard and let
him have this info.
A few nice words come from JOSEPH W. HANLOVIC Route 1, Prague,
Nebraska 68050: ‘I sure enjoy the G.E.M. very much
-wouldn’t want to miss a single issue. I have a pretty nice
collection of different sizes and models of gas engines that I have
to work on. Sure is interesting to read in the G.E.M. how other
people have problems with wiring and getting loose those single
bangers.
My Dad bought a Sandwich 1-1/2 HP engine in 1918 for pumping
water, which I still own, and it runs good. I also have a 5 HP
Sandwich which has the big timing gear broken and a few parts
missing.’
DOUGLAS STREET, 1921 Carney Ave., Rockford, Illinois 61103
writes this short letter: I am looking for information on an engine
that I just picked up. I was told it was an ECONOMY. The engine #
is 15 JK 6326 E. The RPM is 775 and the HP is 1 1/2 2 JK. There is
a casting # on the block that is GE4500A. It has solid flywheels,
the intake valve is in the head and the exhaust valve is in the
block. Both valves are on the left side of the engine and across
from each other. The exhaust pipe is also on the left side. The gas
tank is cast into the bottom of the block. Any information as to
make, yr. etc., will be greatly appreciated. I enjoy G.E.M. very
much.
PRICE BRUBAKER, Box 236, Prairie City, Iowa 50228 has just
purchased a Wallis Model J tractor made by J. D. Case Plow Works.
He would like to know the original color and where to find the
tractor serial number – please send him this data, if you know the
answers.
From WESLEY J. TRATHAN, 3025 W. Dayton, Flint, Michigan 48504
comes another plea: ‘You seem to be able to help so many engine
restorers with the Smoke Rings column, that I am moved to try also.
Here is my problem:
One of my special interests is marine engines. I am working on
the restoration of a FERRO 6 HP Type DT 2 cylinder 2 cycle marine
engine. The engine is quite complete except the plunger type of
water pump is missing. I have never seen an engine like this before
and wondered if anyone could produce a picture of one and write me
about it.’
A letter from SCOTTY LITTLE, 426 South Main Street, Hope,
Arkansas 71801 with quite a few questions for the learned gas
buffs:
‘Last year through an article in a science magazine, I was
led to Gas Engine Magazine, G.E.M. I have thoroughly enjoyed the
articles and the ideas from others.
I have a Witte 2 HP, Serial #b36911. I have restored it and it
runs fine; however, I have some questions:
1. What year is it?
2. What color should it be? I got it as close as I could,
(see picture)
3. The left side adjusting knob of carburetor was broken
off but it runs without that adjustment. What is it for?
4. Where should the gas tank be located and size?
5. What is the hole in the back of the water hopper for?
(see arrow on picture)
6. Was there a cowling over the connecting rods?
7. Does anyone have information from an owner’s manual
or catalog about this Witte Engine?
8. Is there anyone in my area of Hope, Arkansas, that
would be interested in getting a club or show together? Any help
will be greatly appreciated.’
This member of our G.E.M. Family is also calling for HELP!
‘Need information on Detroit two cycle tank cooled engine.
Anyone have any data I could copy or borrow or trade for LeRoi
info?’ (Write REV. GEO. GOODWIN, Box A, Worcester, New York
12197 if you can be of assistance).
LARRY GOUGH, The Fleece Garage, Knighton, Radnorshire, Wales,
U.K., LD7 IBB says: ‘I have found an old inboard boat engine
called a Ferro Special, made by the Ferro Foundry & Machine
Company of Ohio. It is a type T, 3 HP, vertical two stroke. There
is no ignition fitted, nor governor nor carb. Any information or
drawings would be appreciated. I would also like to know the year
it was built.
Other engines in my collection are 2-1/4 HP, 3 HP, 4 HP, 6 HP
and an 8 HP Associates. 13 HP M Type International, 3 HP Hercules –
2 HP Model U Emerson Brantingham, 4 HP Ingeco, 2 HP Witte drag saw,
2 HP Bentall.’
A. K. SAYER, 106 South Road, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, England
has a 1920 3 HP I.H.C. horizontal engine Type B which is complete
apart from the valve springs and rocker arm. He would like any
information on these.
VINCE DAILEY, Box 528, Ronan, Montana 59864 has an I.H.C.
vertical S/N L 3017, speed 360, 3 HP. He would like to know the
color of paint and the trim colors.
RAY MILLER, 2815 Niagara Blvd., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada L2A
5M4 sends this message and request for help: ‘We have the
following gas engines and are wondering if anyone could tell us
approximately the year they were built. *Associated 1 3/4 HP, water
cooled, called Chore Boy, S/N 326005, hit and miss uses the
Associated gear driven magneto with the spiral angled bevel gear
drive with make and break ignitor. This engine has a Milwaukee
nameplate – sold by P. T. Legore, Montreal.
*Associated 4 HP, water cooled, called Farm Hand. Throttle
governor employs a Webster magneto and make and break ignitor, S/N
41038.
*Alpha (DeLaval) 1 3/4 HP, S/N 28273, spoke flywheel, speed 475
Type F, Splitdorf (Sumter) rotary magneto, make and break ignitor,
hit and miss. Built for DeLaval by John Lauson Co. This is the same
engine as the Lauson 1-1/2 HP Frost King Jr. All castings have the
word JR plus casting number of them. During what years were the
Frost King Jr. engines produced?
* Eaton 1-1/2 or 2 HP battery make and break ignitor, hit
and miss. Engine built for the T. Eaton Co. Toronto, Canada by the
Waterloo Gasoline Engine Co., Waterloo, Iowa and is the same engine
as the well known Waterloo Boy. S/N stamped on end of crankshaft
141263.
* Renfrew Sta-Rite, 1-1/2 HP built for Renfrew Mach. Co.
Renfrew, Ontario by the Sta-Rite Engine Co. LaCrosse, Wisconsin,
Type A7 S/N 9969, hit and miss wizard magneto, make and break
ignitor.
* Renfrew Standard 2-1/2 HP built for Renfrew Mach. Co.
Renfrew, Ont. by Christensen Engineering Co. Milwaukee, Wis. Type
FF, speed 450, S/N 9081F. This is a side shaft engine hit and miss,
battery buzz coil and spark plug. Same engine as the Badger engine
built by Christensen.
*Economy 5 HP Model 5E, S/N 122691, built for Sears Roebuck Co.
by Hercules Engine Co. Evansville, Indiana, hit and miss, uses
Webster magneto and ignitor. On our Economy engine at the
crankshaft end of the cylinder on the bottom where the bore is
beveled to assist in replacing piston and rings are five very
distinct marks. Does anyone know what these punch marks stand
for?’ (There’s a lot of questions for you veterans to
answer).
I want to state here, so many of you men when writing me to use
your material in the columns, also say you are looking for certain
parts or manuals or etc. I cannot mention this in the Column. That
would come under the classified WANT ADS. It would not be fair to
the folks who send the want ads in asking for items. 1 hope you
understand.
W. R. FELTON, 307 Water Street, Sioux City, Iowa 51102 sends
this letter – sounds like they really enjoyed their visit:
My wife and I had the pleasure of a trip to New Zealand in
January and our host and hostess drove 200 miles one Sunday so we
could see some engines. The drive was a treat in itself and we saw
a number of nice engines. Our biggest surprise came about 7 miles
from the home of our friends when we called on John Menzies. The
gentlemen admitted to having some 14 engines – yes all running
condition – did he have any side-shafts? Yes! On looking at the
engines and hearing many of them run I was dumbfounded to note that
seven of his engines were side shafts. Like so many things in that
beautiful land, English origin is quite common, but Iowa engines
such as Galloway and Associated are well represented too.
Mr. Menzies has saved many treasures besides engines, from the
junk heap. He has a number of tractors, much early telephone
equipment and many clocks. I hope some more Yankee engineers will
have a chance to visit in that lovely land.
Some questions from another subscriber as JOSEPH A. CIS-SELL,
Route 1, Melber, Kentucky 42069 says: ‘I am a new subscriber to
your excellent magazine and I hate to ask for help so soon, but I
need Help!
I have an engine ‘The Hired Man’ made by Associated
Mfgrs. Co., Waterloo, Iowa. This engine is 2-1/2 HP. Would like to
know the color of this engine, and any information would help.
Also have a 2-1/2 HP Jaeger engine made by The Jaeger Machine
Co., Columbus, Ohio. I’d like to know the color this engine was
painted and if anyone can tell me what the literature says about
it.’ (Joe has an ad in this magazine for some parts he is
looking for -maybe you can help).
BERNARD J. SCHWAEGEL, R.R.I, O ‘Fallon, Illinois 62269 is
seeking data on a garden tractor which he is restoring. It is a
Standard Monarch #408E2847. He would like to know the age and if it
had a governor or where he can write for literature.
Another gentleman has two questions for the readers – JAMES P.
STEFFY, 24 Cottonwood, Oak Grove Terrace, Mt. Vernon, Illinois
62864 asks: ‘1. Does anyone know what the original colors and
paint scheme were on a Fuller & Johnson combination pump jack
and engine? It is of vertical design, air cooled, with a solid
inscribed flywheel. The gas tank is mounted directly on the
carburetor. Also HP? I think it is somewhere around 2 HP. 2. Could
someone tell me what type of ignition system a Monarch 1 3/4 HP had
and how it was set up, etc.? I own a Monarch, but the ignition
system is completely gone, so I haven’t even a hint. Also, I
would like to know the original color or colors and paint scheme
for this engine. Any descriptions or diagrams on these problems
would be appreciated.’
A lengthy letter with sincere interest in obtaining help comes
from DON RILEY, 21224 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall, California
91321:
I have a Fairbanks-Morse light plant that I would like to get
some information on. It weighs approximately 300 pounds. It must be
an odd engine because I have seen nothing like it in the G.E.M.,
either picture or description, in the past few years.
It is water-cooled with a small 9′ x 10′ radiator lying
flat, just above the head. The head bears the numerals 1923 in
raised cast in numbers.
The single cylinder is enclosed, with a flat pulley, 3′ x
3′, sticking out the front end and the mag out the back. You
can see generator windings thru the grill in the front. I think it
is a gas-started and kerosene-run engine. The small container in
the carburetor holds 1-1/2 cups, and the running tank holds
approximately 2-1/2 quarts.
When you move the start lever to choke, a small snorkle tube
goes into an orifice in the gas container. The tube remains in the
orifice until the lever is moved to ‘run’ position, at
which time the snorkle tip comes away from the orifice. I’ve
had the engine running on gas several times using the snorkle in
the orifice, or nearly tight in the orifice, to keep it
running.
Some of the wires are disconnected, and it will not charge, but
it will start on a 12-volt car battery during warm weather. 12
volts will not turn it over compression in cold weather.
I think the motor generator is o.k., but the disconnected wires
to the ampmeter, start lever, relay, etc. need hooking up
correctly. There is no oil-level gauge that I can find, and the oil
is old.
I was going to clean the magneto, but it seems to be still
connected internally even after removing the four bolts into the
mag. The internal governor seems to work and holds RPM fairly
steadily when running.
I would like to hear from someone about this engine.
DONALD SELL, Box 368, Booker, Texas 79005 writes: ‘I have an
engine that I would like some information on as to type, year, name
of engine, and what was its use? There are no numbers or nameplates
of any kind on the engines except for ‘STORD Motor, on the side
of the block. It has three cylinders and the middle one is an
injector pump. The two cylinders that fire have a bore of 3
3/4′ and a stroke of 5-1/2′. The injector cylinder has a
bore of 5′ and a stroke of 3 3/4’. It is equipped with a
Bosch magneto, but it is possible this has been changed. (See
picture). I also need a wiring diagram for an upright Monitor,
Model VJ, 1-1/4 HP, speed 500. ALL HELP APPRECIATED!
It has three cylinders and the middle one is an injector pump.
The two cylinders that fire have a bore of 3 3/4′ and a stroke
of 5-1/2′. The injector cylinder has a bore of 5′ and a
stroke of 3 3/4′. It is equipped with a Bosch magneto, but it
is possible this has been changed.
BARRY TULLER, R.R. 3, Box 78, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa 52641 has some
questions on several of his engines:
I am hoping that someone can supply me with some information on
some of my engines. I recently asked for information on a Sprayer
engine and was helped out by Mr. R. Hamp of San Jose,
California.
I now have a 2 HP. Trojan that is identical to the Sprayer. They
look like Wittes. The nameplate says the engine was sold by Stowe
Supply Co., of Kansas City, Mo. The engine has Witte serial number
B14140 stamped on the crank, and the same number on the nameplate.
The Sprayer engine has Witte serial number B16088. I was wondering
if anyone could date these engines.
Last week (Mar. 6), I bought a Fairbanks Morse upright engine.
It is either a 3 or 4 HP engine. It has serial number 765. It is
equipped with both an igniter and a hot tube. I would like
information on the hot tube, and how to make one, since this one is
missing.
I have an engine that I think is quite rare, although I have
seen one other like it. It is a Workwell engine, with a bore of 3
inches and stroke of 4 inches. The flywheels measure 14 inches
diameter with a 1 3/4′ face. It is a hit and miss engine with a
spark plug. I would like any information on this engine anyone
has.
If anyone knows how to date Hercules engines or has a serial
number list of them, I would appreciate this information.
All letters sent to me will be answered. Enclosed is a picture
of the Workwell engine. Thanks for a super magazine!
WILLIAM W. DODGE, 133 Wilson Road, Valley Stream, New York 11581
tells us:
‘I have enclosed a picture of an engine that I have restored
to running condition. I would like to know more about it. It is a 2
cycle engine, 2-7/8′ bore and 2-1/2′ stroke with twin
flywheels. I am sure that it is quite old, because it has extra
wide piston rings and 1/2′ pipe spark plug. I obtained the
engine minus the carburetor, but I adapted one from another engine.
It runs at low RPM and it has a blow off valve or drain for the
crankcase. The engine is all cast iron except the connecting rod
which is bronze. The main bearings are bronze also. I would like to
obtain information as to when this engine was made and where and as
to what kind of carburetor was correct. I believe the engine was
used originally on a power mower.’
I understand there had been a shortage of January-February Gas
Engine Magazines-since then we have had more printed and if you did
not get one, please write the Lancaster Office and tell them.
That will be it for this time and remember ‘Troubles are the
tools by which God fashions us for better things’ – have a good
time this summer at the Reunions – 111 be thinking of you.
