OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums The History Forum Model Histories AUSTRALIAN Rotary Models AUSTRAL-VILLIERS - Adaptomatic - c1956

For the record, here is a diagram and photo of the remnants of the blade holder
and safety clutch system. The clutch relied on a cork clutch pad that made contact
with the cast iron PTO pulley underneath the engine. The blade holder would 'slip'
when it encountered shock loads that exceeded the tensioned spring.

Second, note the early use in blade holder design of aerodynamic lift. There was
a belief that a suction lift would greatly aid the cutting of grass. Here, it was
achieved by two flutes incorporated into the blade holder design. There is no
doubt that this lift gave the machine some mulching capability.




BASE
Here are some good photos of the middle version base. Of particular note is the
safety skirt at the front (R.H. side), and the PTO base cut out.