New Automaton
A brief timeline of the 'New Automaton' and 'Chain Automaton'
The ‘New Automaton’ 1885-1896 |
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1885: |
The major improvement over the original Automaton was a patented single screw adjustment to set the cutting cylinder against the bottom blade. In addition, the main roller incorporated a ratchet drive gear which allowed the cylinder to continue a few spins after stopping to clear the clippings from the cutting cylinder. Another distinct change was the grass box, now with external brackets and an ornate cup handle with a strap/buckle in the casting. Available in nine cutting widths, 8 to 24in. |
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1886: |
The chain drive model appeared in advertisements in four sizes, 10 to 16in |
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1887: |
Chain drive now advertised in sizes 10 to 24in |
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1890: |
Chain drive now seen in sizes 8 to 24in to match the gear version. |
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1896: |
The final year of production brought a major improvement enabling the cutting height to be adjusted by the operation of a handwheel rather than with a spanner. |
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