This new column will be primarily
for beginners at engine collecting and engine restoration (not that it is written by an expert!), and for the
“young set” as the title implies.
Being both a beginner and 14 years old, I qualify for both of
the aforementioned titles. When I thought of this column, I thought
about some of the other fellows my age and also of people who were
not familiar with the “ropes.” As I said, I am no expert,
but I have done a little collecting and derived much knowledge from
that collection of gas engines.
The idea I have in mind is, that when you start collecting, and
when you are younger without as much knowledge (as much as you
might acquire through years of collection) you will need some place
to send for information, and a person with whom to discuss your
engines with where the impediment of competition does not
exist.
Surely, no person can obtain all of the articles he receives in
the magazine. Usually our articles, not typed, without
pictures, or the experience of writing, turn up on the bottom of
the stack. Again, not that you have to be another Dickens to get in
an article. Feel free to contribute as you probably can do very
well, if you try. I am just trying to give you beginners and
younger fellows a place to put forth ideas, and it just might be
easier to write for others your own age.
Well, that is my explanation of what I hope may be a beneficial
column. Now, please send any questions, ideas, information,
pictures, or just general conversation to my way.
I will forward it, in compiled form (I will have to edit it, so
please don’t be offended if some part is extracted.) If you
would like your letter in this column, please, send it to me! Now,
what I think might be a good idea is, to have, besides general talk
every month, something to work on–you know, a goal. So for the
present, until I have a better idea, how about antique outboards?
It seems to be a hazy, untouched history we have on them. This
doesn’t mean that you must send me itinerary on antique
outboards only. But please, if you have it get it in the mail! For
those who don’t have information on the topic, just write me
about something else.
I will be especially interested in those of you who live near me–I already have received letters from several kind people who
have sent me data on F-M Company ZC engines. Among others are Mr.
George Matthews of Lakewood, N. J., Roger L. Eshelman, who offered
to make me a tank, and Carlton M. Mull, sent me a kind letter and
thank you Mr. Clemons, who sent me a letter about the same engine.
It is help like this that I really appreciate. I have gotten a few
engines lately, an Economy (3 hp at 600 rpm.) and a 1-2 hp
L.B.I.H.C. Well that is the end for this month, and remember to
drop me a line (if you are around my age please let me know!) Tip:
You can get some parts, catalogs, price lists on some
Fairbanks-Morse Engines by writing to: Jones & Saughlin Supply
Co. Please specify your model,
horsepower, and any other type of information to the company.
See
You,
Jeff Cain
