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Collection, Preservation and Display of Old Lawn Mowers

Ransomes The Leo

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Hi, can anyone tell me whether a Ransomes  The Leo came with a wooden or steel sided Grassbox. I have just picked up a very nice one and wax surprised to find the box all metal. The box is quite ornate with ornate brackets so would suggest period correct. Could someone please tell me if this box is the right one or not. Many thanks.

Clive1997 Wed, 21/07/2021

Yes would appear to be original box, I have similar all metal box with a late 1920's Lion, your Leo will be early 1930's being prior to Mk1 & Mk2. 

RansomesRob Fri, 23/07/2021

Having seen Sean's lovely example of  'The Leo' it would appear that my example is missing the 'Front Delivery Plate' - Was this an optional extra at the time? or has mine got lost over the years - along with Grass Box! Thanks.

Messorestore Sat, 24/07/2021

 I think the throw plate must have been an optional extra as I have seen so many without.I can't imagine that everybody would have lost theirs.I assume yours is 12" Leo. If you want to borrow my throw plate to get another recast just let me know. Boxes do turn up from time to time. I might even have a spare for you in my huge heap of boxes.

stonethemows Sat, 24/07/2021

Yes the throw plate and grass box were definitely an optional extra. In 1939 they cost 9/6d. if ordered with the mower. After the event they were 11/-. Interestingly the price was the same irrespective of 10", 12" or 14". At this time the cost of the mower (12" ) was 56/9d, that's £2-16/- 9d for anyone under about 55. 

RansomesRob Sat, 24/07/2021

Hi Colin. Thanks for the reply with the prices of the mower and the 'optional extras', WOW!! ....wish I could be buying quality push mowers for those prices now!! Being 62 I well remember pounds,shillings and pence. Will be in touch with you over the weekend to get hold of a decal for my JP Mini Mower, managed to scrape up the centre of the one that sits on the Grass Box when getting it out of the Shed to use this morning. Again, thanks for the reply. Cheers. Rob