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Collection, Preservation and Display of Old Lawn Mowers

Allen Mayfield Scythe (8HP Kohler)

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Hi, can anybody help me please with the blade engagement mechanism for the subject scythe?  The mechanism seems to have has been butchered by a previous owner to lift the idler pulley to put tension on the belts.  It was very badly done using angle iron (already removed in the photo).  I am pretty sure that the idler pulley should be lowered onto the belts using a lever at the rear of the machine (shown in the second picture).

 

Current engagement system (angle iron removed)Correct handle?

Has anyone got a photo of the correct linkage please?

Many thanks, Niscars

hillsider Mon, 27/05/2019

There is nothing more frustrating than trying to unravel someone else's bodgifications especially if they have destroyed the original set up in the process.

Machines like your Allen Mayfield are not often seen on this forum so the help you are seeking may be a bit thin on the ground. If you have not found them already take a look at the Vintage Horticultural and Garden Machinery clubs website they also have a forum that you can sign up to and ask there also, http://www.vhgmc.co.uk/

Good luck with your project.

Niscars Mon, 27/05/2019

Thanks for your reply.  I used to be a member of the VHGMC and have posted on the forums before.  Regrettibly I let my membership lapse when I moved out to France.

I do have other irons in the fire on this one, so I hope to get some help on the scythe shortly.

Regards,

Niscars

Niscars Tue, 28/05/2019

Wristpin, thank you. That is perfect and the first time I have actually seen what should be in situ.  Just got to try and make it now!!

Thanks again,

Oscar