Independence Lane Hannacroix, NY 12087
The Taylor Vacuum engine was really an engineering marvel in its
time. The concept is very simple and reliable.
These unique engines were built in Elgin, Illinois by the Taylor
Supply Company, later to become Taylor Engine Company. The inventor
and owner was Mr. Jack Taylor. I have been told that Universal
Milking Machine Company was the financial backer.
What makes the Taylor engine unique is that it has two different
piston and cylinder diameters. It has one large and one small in a
common cylinder block (Fig. 1).
The front cylinder operates just like any engine does. The rear
cylinder is the working cylinder. Taylor claimed the engine would
last longer than the common engine of that time because of the
extra wearing surface of the piston.
The valve block which houses the check valves is on the side of
the rear cylinder. The check valves would develop the needed vacuum
for the milking machine. By switching the check valves, it could be
used as a compressor. These engines were primarily used for milking
machines. A belt pulley could be used for general farm power
also.
The Taylor Vacuum engine is less common than other engines, and
is seldom seen at the reunions. The proper paint color is very
close to Ditzler #45183.
