REFLECTIONS

20/6/18 Q. What is the proper color for the Bean vertical engine as is illustrated on page 50 American Gasoline Engines? Harry Kokx, RR 2, Box 336, Hart, MI 49420.

20/6/19 Q. We have a Middleditch engine built in Detroit, Michigan and need information relative to the color, horsepower, type and make of carburetor, etc. Wayne Falan, 619 Paw Paw Ave., Paw Paw, MI 49079.

20/6/20 Q. What is the approximate age, color scheme, etc. for a Regal two-cylinder engine? It is similar to the one-cylinder model illustrated on page 414 of American Gas Engines. The engine has a lot of brass on it, and we would like to know a good way to clean it. Brian Bass, Rt. 2, Box 388, Henagar, AL 35978.

A. While we aren't sure of the proper colors for this engine, we suggest starting on the brass with Brasso or a similar brass cleaner. This will get off a lot of the tarnish and other stains that have been acquired over the years. Bronze castings can be nicely cleaned up with a FINE bristled wire wheel. After this stage, cloth buffing wheels available at many hardware stores will be of great help. Usually, small sticks of buffing compound are also available, and the combination works nicely to bring up a nice finish. Be careful not to push too hard, especially on thin materials, or lettering, etc. Also, be very careful in using a buffing wheel. Even a small one can rip the object out of your hands in an instant. We lay down a couple thicknesses of old carpeting under the buffer. Should we accidentally lose an item this way, impact with the floor isn't such a problem, and if the piece is small, it is much easier to find.

20/6/21 Q. Robert Yoder, 1704 Amity Road, Galloway, OH 43119 needs the proper color and striping for a Hercules 6 HP Model S engine as illustrated on page 228 of American Gas Engines.

A. We believe this engine to be a dark green color, comparable to DuPont 7498. We have seen these engines striped in red, and some with black, but believe red to be the proper color for the striping.

20/6/22 Q. Harry Cruchelow, 15035 S.E. Gladstone St., Portland, OR 97236 inquires whether a 10-20 McCormick-Deering tractor engine will fit the 10-20 Trac-TracTor of similar vintage. Likewise will any of the tractor accessories fit this crawler model?, and what was the original color for the crawler?

A. We believe that if these two engines are not exactly alike, they were at least very similar. Probably the best way to determine this would be to compare the parts book for each, but an easier way would be to hear from someone who has the answer. Mr. Cruchelow kindly forwarded an extensive listing of Oliver and Cletrac production dates which will be published in the near future.