OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums The History Forum Model Histories UK & EUROPEAN Power Reel Models RANSOMES - Junior Gangs - c1960s

Hello ODK history lovers
The Ransomes Junior Gang Mowers first appeared in the
early 1960s. These ‘mini’ gang mowers were modeled on the
traditional gang mowers that mowed much larger areas.

Units had a 20” cutting width and reels appeared in 5 blade (J5)
and seven blade (J7) variants. Combined, they would be offered
in 3-unit and 5-unit configurations.

In some ways, they reflect the modern advent of lifestyle for
the owner operator, but also labour-saving costs for clubs,
sporting bodies, or for cutting smaller municipal areas.

A 3-unit (triple) or 5-unit (quintuple) Junior gang could mow
– respectively - 56” (140cm) or 92” (233cm).




Of course, trailing other lawnmowers, the cutting widths
would vary, and Ransomes offered the Juniors with some
of their own machines: their Matador, Mastiff and Verge Cutter.
These mowers used two-unit Juniors.

The popularity of the domestic garden tractor also
augmented the potential for the Junior gangs.

The Junior was, essentially, a side-wheel push mower on steroids.
They were a robust, clever design that Ransomes used to advantage.

Note that offset top plate on the frame. That would form the engine
mount for the Ransomes Antelope powered reel mower!

TO BE CONTINUED ...

PART TWO – Brochures
I have a few brochures in my collection that cover the Junior gangs.
Here I include ones for Mounting to the Ransomes Matador, Mastiff,
and Verge Cutter.

As always, I make then available to members for viewing or as quality downloads.