On May 6, 2018 I attended the Matlock Old Timers Fair. Situated about 30 minutes from my current home in the tiny town of Matlock, Washington, I have to admit that I wasn’t expecting a whole lot, but I am glad to say that my expectations were exceeded. My friend Donnie and I left our wives at home and spoke with tractor owners, engine owners, and even the owner of an entire collection of Tonka trucks- all made for logging, and in working order. We totally geeked out at almost century old technology. Check the video below for a yarding demonstration- Tonka style! I also had the chance to speak to the owner/operator of a 1931 Ruston & Hornsby oil engine. He showed us how its started and discusses some of its key features.
I hope you enjoy the video. Scroll down for more pictures.
Click for full size pictures:
The drum on the left is attached directly to the crankshaft. The pistons are horizontal, and there are two of them side by side. See the spark plug. There is one on either side.
Spoked wheels, a rather expensive option back in the day, offered light weight compared to their cast iron equivalents.
A cast iron wheeled tractor next to a spoked wheel tractor.
Note the leather accessory belt.
To start the engine, the flywheel is turned by hand. It has recesses on the back side for the hand to grip it.
Working Tonka trucks, working in the woods. It was a real treat to see so many vintage and antique Tonka trucks in a realistic setting.
This boat was restored with a period-mostly-correct engine.
Look at all that brass and bronze!
