The Old Lawnmower Club
Collection, Preservation and Display of Old Lawn Mowers

Silens Messor block chain

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cartera

I would be grateful for advice on replacing the block chain on an 8" Silens Messor. The exising chain differs in pitch to the spokes on the wheel and is a very poor fit. Measured with digital callipers, the distance between the spokes appears to be 26.7mm, and the distance between the chain links is slightly larger at 27.2mm. Perhaps the chain has stretched a lot over the years, it's certainly very worn. I note that there's a link on the website to R M Fowler Ltd, and that they are offering a 1" pitch block chain. Has anyone tried this chain on a Silens Messor? Is it a good fit? Is it expensive? Are there any other sources?

 

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Mowing Wurzel Tue, 04/11/2025

Good Day Cartera,

The 8"  10"   & 12"  Silens Messor,  use the 7/16"   wide  28 link block chain.

(the 14" & 16"   is wider at 11/16"   but still 28 links)

Looking at the photos, the width is correct at 7/16" 

I see your predicament, a common problem with block chain when worn.  

Rebushing is an option or as you say, new laminated chains (i.e. the blocks are pressings sandwiched together, not cast as original) are available,  but premiums may be apprehensive.

The best solution if you cannot live with it is to see if anybody has a  28 link 7/16" wide chain they can spare or a donor machine.   You can still pick up Silens Messor's for £10-20.

Sad I know using one for parts.

Lots of Silens Messor's I have, the chain is a poor fit and the rear roller adjustment is at max, and chain still saggy!