OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums The History Forum Model Histories UK & EUROPEAN Power Reel Models RANSOMES - Sprite - c1960

Hello ODK History Lovers
The Ransomes Sprite belongs to a specific time in history when Ransomes was
attempting to capture a new class of ownership � the post-WWII working class
and their ownership of power lawnmowers, in an environment of rotary lawnmowers.

This was a 14� reel mower designed and built on a relatively new idea � the
pressed steel chassis. That was not new though � with Ransomes having used
it in its Minor MK6 of 1951. That design would influence a whole range of
Ransomes� models in the coming decades.

What made the Sprite unique was, first, its use of steel pressings and weldings
to create a particular style of �streamlined� lawnmower, perhaps reflecting the
space-age and space-race of the times.

Second, it was the first Ransomes to use a very clever landroll reduction gearing
that was incorporated in the landroll itself � rather than the more expensive
transmissions via a number of chains and sprockets, or belts and pulleys.

This was an economy model, made with fewer parts, and it was lighter than the other
�lightweight� reel mowers that had been previously made by this great manufacturer.



TO BE CONTINUED ...

PART TWO - Specification
The Sprite was an economical design, offered originally as a JAP 2-stroke,
it became available with an electric motor, and also a specially designed
BSA 4-stroke (later used on the Ransomes 14).

It had a single clutch that controlled both reel and roller, via a belt and
tensioner system � connected to a single, handle-mounted clutch lever.



Transmission to the reel was via a short chain from a combination pulley,
sprocket and pinion spindle. This compact system drove the roller like a
sidewheel manual push mower � a pinion and ring gear mounted in the roller
that gave the reduction required for landroll speed � but in reverse operation
(to a push mower)!



TO BE CONTINUED ...

PART THREE - Manuals
The manual I have is for the first, 2-stroke model.
It is comprehensive in being both an operator and parts manual. I suspect
little difference (apart from the power unit) between 2 and 4 stroke models
and the electric model. As always, my scan of this model is available for
personal use.

TWO STROKE


Source: https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/ubbthreads.php/topics/75310/RANSOMES_Sprite.html

FOUR STROKE

EUROPEAN POWER REEL MOWERS


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