G'day
MaxMany thanks for your research.
Your thoughts are always welcomed here and your
research is always impeccable.
Max, This is such an interesting topic - the
terminology used
in mechanical components has such historical baggage!
Sorry for this rant ... I apologise in advance ....The horticultural world has been influenced by the
automotive world and, in turn, the agricultural world.
Engineering has such historical baggage in its terminology.
It appears to me that terminology was flexible and unsettled
prior to the modern era (post WWII) in the major powerhouses
of lawn mower designs - the UK and the USA.
For example, I consciously used the word 'reel' to describe
what the British would today name a 'cylinder' mower. I have argued
my reasoning behind that on these great forums many times.
I favoured the North American descriptor in that case.
In this case, I favour the UK's Ransomes' descriptor - for 'trailing seat'.
Shanks was using 'trailer' in the interwar years; Greens was using
'Trailing Driver's Seat' at the same time.
You are absolutely right - North Americans have adopted 'sulky'
for this accessory. But, it doesn't explain enough - just like
'cylinder' was deficient in the above example.
At least, 'trailing' gives us a location for the object.
It doesn't explain the motive force though ... [it's complicated]
Here's a good example: -[A] You are in the early 20th Century ...
1914 Australia.
You work for a regional council and operate a Shanks 36"
'Triumph' Horse mower. This machine is
propelled, but not self-
propelled ... the engine is a horse ... just like 'Mr Ed'. It has a
sulky seat on the mower itself.
[B] You are in the early 20th Century ...
1932 Australia.
You work for a wealthy Sydney 'captain of industry'.
You have charge of a Ransomes 24" Motor Lawn Mower. This machine
is
self-propelled ... the engine is a petrol job ... and your
Master has purchased an accessory to make your job easier -
a 'sulky seat'! Actually, a' trailing sulky seat'. Really, a 'trailing seat' ... Hurrah!
Max, I know you will raise this point ...
What happens when the trailing seat is also the motive force - the 'engine'?
I know you know that's been done too!
That discussion will have to be for another time!
Cheers--------------------
Jack
