Hello
IanOZ and
ODK Members & GuestsFrom the outset, I don't know the manufacturer of this unusual lawnmower.
All I can do is discuss the unusual features of this interesting mower.
At least, we now have a record of it, and I have filed it as '
Unknown'
[1] Engine.I believe this engine is a
JAP Model 80 (not the more-common C80).
The features that indicate this are: removable head; unusual port locations;
crankcase design; small flywheel; muffler design.
[I am not ruling out that this is, in fact, a Hardman & Hall Simplex engine
that had similar port locations to the JAP]I can only speculate that 'Qualcast' appears on the cylinder as it was made
by the foundry division of Qualcast - a foundry that made component parts
for other manufacturers (including auto parts).
However, I note that Qualcast did takeover the Suffolk Iron Foundry in the 1950s,
(makers of the Suffolk engines), and 'Qualcast', itself, was the brand name
of the Derwent Foundry (originally). My best guess, though, is a JAP.
[2] The ChassisThis is not the run-of-the-mill 'toecutter'. It is mostly alloy.
The base is alloy with a very narrow skirt, and the alloy rails for the wheels
and height adjustment is most unusual.
The
primitive height adjustment and lack of folding handle makes me feel that
this mower dates from about 1954 - 1956.
The
blade holder is most unusual! It is cast alloy! I can't recall any other
rotary manufacturer that used this on petrol-powered machines.
There is a clue to identification in the
fuel tank design. It appears identical to the
Pathfinder mowers that were sold through Myer Stores. The maker of the Pathfinder is not
known, but I have a suspicion it was a
Melbourne manufacturer.
[3] Summary:-I believe the mower is of Australian manufacturer (because of the base design).
The
extensive use of alloy makes me think the manufacturer had access to a non-
ferrous foundry. The
tank design is a clue that points to the manufacturer of
the Pathfinder mowers.
[4] Possible Suspects:-The fuel tank design indicates a
'Pathfinder' link.
Other contenders are: Mi-T-Mow,Kleen-Cut, Eclipse and Park mowers.
Hope this somewhat helps.------------------------------
JACK.