OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums The History Forum Model Histories AUSTRALIAN Rotary Models ROVER - MODEL 51 RANGER - c1965

Hello ODK History Lovers

The Model 51 Ranger was Rover Mowers' first ride-on lawnmower.
Introduced in the mid-1960s, it would have a life-span of almost two decades.

This 27 inch cut machine was of an extremely solid build, but of a simple design
of clear American inspiration. It was the right ride-on lawnmower for the times,
often being called upon to not just cut lawns but to tackle 'jungle growth' on
small acreage.

Even though this mower would have sold in high volume, it has not been well-
documented, and this History Record aims to cover what is known, but with a view
of adding to the record as new information emerges.


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TO BE CONTINUED ...

PART TWO - ORIGINAL SPECIFICATION

Over its life span, the Model 51 Ranger had numerous, subtle changes.
The most obvious variation was the power plant and power rating.

The first model was probably a 5124, powered by a 6hp Briggs & Stratton,
but a Model 5160 was powered by a 6hp Kirby. Later models would offer a range
of horsepower ratings.

There are some interesting points to be made in this early brochure.
The first is that the original Rangers had three forward and two reverse gears.
Note the attachments: a 5 foot tow-behind cutting attachment, a trailer, and a
side-catcher with a red-white striped canvas cover! The amusing feature (in hindsight)
is the Safety Foot Brake. For those who have used Rangers, a metal scrubber on each
rear wheel is hardly a safety feature; given that the technology belonged to horse and
wagon days. I guess it sort of worked ...



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TO BE CONTINUED ...

PART THREE - MODEL VARIANTS

The Model 51 Ranger had little change over its lifespan. There was a move to a
single reverse gear, and a couple of seat designs. Other than that, it was just
cosmetic. The last of the old style Rangers left the production line in the early
1980s, probably with the Model 5144. The Ranger would be replaced with a
completely new design.

This was a good old boy that simply could no longer comply with modern safety
requirements. Here is a list of known model 51 versions:-

Model 5124 - fitted with 6hp 146702 B&S
Model 5127 - fitted with 7hp 170702 B&S
Model 5138 - fitted with 8hp 190702 B&S
Model 5144 - fitted with 8hp 191702 B&S
Model 5160 - fitted with 6hp VK60 Kirby
Model 5167 - fitted with 7hp VH70 Kirby


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TO BE CONTINUED ...

PART FOUR - MANUALS

Acknowledgement
Member slashnburn has spent much time scanning these documents and has agreed
to make them available as downloads for personal use. The History Forum thanks
him for adding important information to the record for the Rover Ranger Model 51.

OWNER'S MANUAL


PARTS MANUAL

We do not have good photos of a Ranger Model 51, either in restored
or original condition. Any contributions welcome.

TYPE 'Rover Model 51' in the search bar for various topics


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