J. and H. McLaren: BS 9066
Note: This is a sub-section of J. and H. McLaren: Traction Engines.
'Cracker'. Built 1917, double crank compound traction engine. No 1534. 5nhp. Reg No: BS 9066.
This is a compound General Purpose Engine with 3 gears, double drive, winding drum and front tank. This engine is one of a batch ordered by the Department of Agriculture for food production towards the end of the First Worls War. It would seem likely from a date in the first log book that on the 4th January 1918 it was delivered to Mr John Roberts of Gallow Hill Newton Mt Kennedy in County Wicklow for threshing duties. This engine remained on that farm until 1971 or 1972 when it was purchased by Group Captain C. H. Tighe, OBE., D. F. C. of nearby Ballina Park, Ashford, County Wicklow, for preservation.
Captain Tighe took the engine to events in nearly original condition, selling it to Dennis O'Mahony of Enniskeane, County Cork in June 1974. Dennis fitted rubber to the front wheels, but concentrated largely on other engines.
The engine was then acquired by John Wakeham of Launceston, Cornwall. The boiler and firebox were rebuilt and an oversized axle was fitted along with new bearing surfaces, and a skim to the third shaft, new front wheel bearings, and steering chains and motion work refurbishment.[1]
See Also
Sources of Information
- ↑ Boconnoc Steam Fair Programme, 2011.