4 Stroke Allen scythe (Villiers MK25)

I have cleaned and rebuilt the carb, added new good fuel and up it’s started (link to video)

https://photos.app.goo.gl/PvWrRcCX6TekLxPZ8

…. but this is full throttle ! - it will run slower, with shutting the throttle but that’s flat out wide open - what am I missing ?

…. it was the timing, too far advanced - I used a 15 thou feeler gauge this time rather than my eyes

More video here

https://photos.app.goo.gl/nvKwtE1LnfNC2UHc8

….. my phone says that is 1950 rpm, it will go a bit faster but the mechanical governor comes in and it starts to run rough as the mixture is messed up - it was only doing 900 rpm before I redid the timing

Nicely done - but still terrifying!

Woodsman wrote:Nicely done - but still terrifying!

Absolutely as it’s running full pelt now - don’t know if you saw, but I have ratchet strapped it down to the bench !

I have generously been given another Allen Scythe with the same Villiers MK25 four-stroke engine, all be it considerably older with the machine number (riveted brass plate on the cowl) giving it a despatch date of 16/03/1953 from the Allen factory - might need a bit more work to get it running ! - but it does turn over at least, we will see. I mainly wanted it for the correct fuel tank, now all i need is the correct screw in cap, the wooden bung is not quite correct !

I think I may have an Allen tank in the shed. Will have a look this afternoon.

Well, it seems the Allen tank fairy has called - I don't remember getting rid.

However, I may be able to help with a cap. What is the thread O/D?

….. this is non standard I fear - it is m33x1.5, a home brew mini keg stopper is that size I have found from internet enquiries - going to see how many holes are in the bottom before I commit to a plan - thanks anyway, regards Andy

I have an Allen Scythe tank somewhere in the shed if you are still in need.

blue cat wrote:I have an Allen Scythe tank somewhere in the shed if you are still in need.

I have sent you a PM blue cat, thanks Andy

Allen scythe tank, with fuel cap, fuel tap and fuel pipe. It still contains the remnants of the last fuel in it, so it doesn't leak either.

Thanks blue cat, I have now realised that there is a difference between a two-stroke and four-stroke tank in the height from the frame, the legs on your pictured tank are shorter than those on the four-stroke like the one that I have, with the incorrect set in screw thread filler hole - height difference probably to do with the carb position ?

I have had a bit of spare time this afternoon so I have started to dismantle the 1953 Allen scythe model TS Villiers MK25 four stroke engine, to see if it’s a viable proposition for restoration -







I can see why there was no spark ! the points aren’t opening, the adjustment screw was loose, as the insulator washer had crumbled - with regard to overall condition someone, has been here before, it is 30 thou over size and I only wiped the oil of the top of the piston, it’s very clean inside - it’s just the outside that’s grotty

Don't forget to put 'keepers' across magnets.

Woodsman wrote:Don't forget to put 'keepers' across magnets.

…. it’s stuck to my 1/8 inch thick steel bench - will that do the job?

perfect