Thread: Wadkin MM Thicknesser Pictures. Ci 1928 .

Originally Posted by auscab

...I assume its close to 1928 Build .
I checked the Test number 3316 and its before Marks first date for 8081 at 1937.

IMG_9603a.jpg

Unfortunately Wadkin used three different test number series in the early days. I was enquiring about a machine with Test No. 1041 and got this:

Originally Posted by AMS

...After they started they used test numbers up 9000+. This sequence went on until circa 1930. The machine with number 1041 in this sequence was MB 357 in 1923.

They then started again at test number 1000 in 1931 and used this new sequence until 1938 when they appear to have just stopped. The machine with test number 1041 in this new sequences was AZA 159 in 1931.

At the same time they restarted with the second sequence at 1000 they also started a new sequence beginning back at number 1 in 1931 and continued this third sequence until they finally closed down in 2009. It is this third and final sequence that included RBV 231 as test number 1041 in 1932.

So it would seem that any machine prior to 1938 could be numbered in one of three sequences. That explains why there are Wadkin Ltd tags in amongst the Wadkin & Co. tags - different sequences.

Cheers, Vann.

The MM appears in both early wadkin catalogs l have .. don't know if that helps Rob and Vann ...
IMG_20211101_212854.jpg

IMG_20211101_212907.jpg

Melbourne Matty..

I've now had a closer look at the photos. My eyes lit up when I spotted it still has a flat belt shifter for the big 2-speed pulley out the back.

MM 120a.jpg

But looking around the back, there's nothing!

MM 120b.jpg

And nothing shows in the catalogue cut either.

MM 120c.jpg

So the lever must be for changing feed speed gears in the "oil bath" gearbox mentioned in the catalogue text .


And on a totally different tangent, but speaking of the catalogue text, I like the way Wadkin made their telegram codes so obvious.

MM 120d.jpg

This machine is an MM, so the code is Medum.

Similarly the code for a standard PK is Patok, while for one with all the bells and whistles (table extensions both sides) is Pimuk, The code for an RB buzzer is Ramob, In contrast my recently acquire Thos. White SO cut-off saw is TBTHW - not an 'S' or an 'O' to be seen.

Cheers, Vann.

Ah right that's what it is .

MM 120a.jpg

I saw it but didn't go close in . I thought something next to the lever was broken off.

That lever just engages the feed, it only has one speed