WW2 Ford Generator

[Colin Alford]

Interesting,

It appears to be either a Machinery Trailer, Type “22 K.W. Generator” or a Machinery Trailer, “R.E. 25 K.W. Generator”.

Images from Vol VII of the Design Record attached.

I wonder if there is a long-term member of MLU who lives in the general area that has a collection of various types of CMP trailers who might be interested? Barry?

Colin

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

Years ago I would have been all over this, I wanted one in the worst way. Unfortunately I no longer have anything to tow it with (and the wife would kill me). I only hope someone gets it to restore and not to strip out the flathead.

[Tony Smith]

Originally Posted by Bruce Parker

Years ago I would have been all over this, I wanted one in the worst way.

Do it! Feel young again!

[Grant Bowker]

Originally Posted by Colin Alford

It appears to be either a Machinery Trailer, Type “22 K.W. Generator” or a Machinery Trailer, “R.E. 25 K.W. Generator”.

My guess is 22 k.w.Generator based on two elements:
1) the proportions of the transverse toolbox ahead of the main enclosure, and
2) absence of the separate V-belt driven welding generator mounted above the main generator (though this could have been removed at a later date...) that should be present on the 25 KW version.

Interesting to see lights typical of earlier M-series on the back of the trailer - this might be a post-service modification (though these lights would have been more expensive than commercial units) or might say something about how long the trailer remained in service.

I believe the 2x duplex outlets that seem to be in commercial boxes, wired with "Romex" would also be later additions.


More info:
The enclosure is the later style - plain panels instead of the louvered ones found on early production (shown in the AEDB photos posted by Colin).
The fuel tank appears to be a replacement, smaller tank. But, the original straps may still be there, folded forward.

Though the trailer/generator may be worthy of preservation as an unusual survivor, it probably won't be too practical as a source of back-up power as both the 22KW and 25KVA are listed in their manuals as providing 110 VDC power. Given the stated 110 VDC output, I'm puzzled about the (likely added) outlets shown in the photos. Did the owner do some creative wiring or did they use it for loads that can accept the DC power (lighting? small heater?).

[James P]

Guys, just convince the wifey you need this should there be a wide spread, prolonged, multi day black out so you do not have to live like the Amish, or Canada in the 1860s.

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

Originally Posted by James P

Guys, just convince the wifey you need this should there be a wide spread, prolonged, multi day black out so you do not have to live like the Amish, or Canada in the 1860s.

Stop it. I don't need any encouragement.

[Tony Smith]

Originally Posted by Bruce Parker

Stop it. I don't need any encouragement.

We wouldn't do that to you!

[Harry Moon]

if someone lives near this and has a good place to put it for a unknown but not forever spot to put it PM me.

[Michael R.]

Originally Posted by Harry Moon

if someone already divorced, living near this and has a good place to put it for a unknown but not forever spot to put it PM me.

best wishes, young Mr. Moon.

[Paul Singleton]

Originally Posted by Harry Moon

if someone lives near this and has a good place to put it for a unknown but not forever spot to put it PM me.

Perhaps the seller would store it for you until you could pick it up. It wouldn’t hurt to ask.

[Matthew P]

Originally Posted by Grant Bowker

Though the trailer/generator may be worthy of preservation as an unusual survivor, it probably won't be too practical as a source of back-up power as both the 22KW and 25KVA are listed in their manuals as providing 110 VDC power. Given the stated 110 VDC output, I'm puzzled about the (likely added) outlets shown in the photos. Did the owner do some creative wiring or did they use it for loads that can accept the DC power (lighting? small heater?).

I have the Hobart/Chrysler welder-generator version of this unit in US form. It also has 110V DC outlets. Apparently most small motors like those in handheld power tools (like grinders, drills etc) are "Universal" and will run on DC voltage. Here's the Wikipedia 101 course on them: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_motor

Matt