G'day Jack,
The idea that Russell manufactured the implements was not something I'd thought about. You could be onto something there. I was working more along the lines of your other suggestion- that it was a brand association to get into the southern markets.
Dating? The photos wouldn't blow up very well but the large photo at the top is clearly of a 'straight rail' machine and the other photos show the 'lower steering wheel cut out in the panel. Also, the front axle pivot looks like the earlier 'plate' style.
The top photo shows the cutter deck removed but I wonder if that was just a photo crop. I notice none of the other photos show the deck removed. Did I this brochure pre-date the removable deck of the later 'Red' machines? Dunno, but my gut feeling is that it may well have.
I note they claim a 6hp and an 8hp was available. The G65 is plated at 6.8hp. This suggests a bigger engine was available? I'm still coming up to speed on these early Hondas so not sure what that might have been. I didnt know there was anything bigger than g65 available in an old Greenie
Either way these photos appear to be of the earliest g65? machines before the engine rails were 'sunken'.
So guessing 1967-68?
This brochure is v interesting. I'm more keen than ever to get hold of some newspaper advertisements that will firm up dates. Please let your friend know I'm grateful.
Cheers,
Last edited by prd; 03/11/16 06:25 AM.