governor

[andy41372]

Ive had this lying around the garage for some time decided I needced to find out more about it and maybe get it to someone else that could use it anty ideas on its use and or value??


 

[Maine Fordson]

Well, just like it says, it's a governor for a Fordson. This was an aftermarket accessory for the Model F (a farm tractor manufactured between 1918 and 1928).

For folks who were using their tractor for belt work (i.e., running auxiliary equipment by using the belt pulley on the side of the tractor), such an accessory was indispensable, as it eliminated the need to constantly adjust the throttle as engine loads changed. Example: When sawing lumber, there's a need for a lot more throttle as the saw blade begins its cut into the log. Once the board is sawn all the way through and the log carriage is returning back to the starting point in preparation for making the next "slice," the tractor engine doesn't need to supply anywhere near as much power; in fact, it could run almost at an idle. Now, on a standard tractor (i.e., equipped just the way it came from the factory), someone would have to stand beside the throttle lever and adjust it every time a cut was made. With a governor installed, however, the engine speed remained constant, freeing up that person to do something else like catch the boards or shovel sawdust.

Another advantage of having a governor was that it helped to prevent the engine being oversped (i.e., running so fast that it damaged itself). The Fordson F was designed to run at 1000 RPM.

Now, we know what it is, so what about its value? Well, like many of the antique and vintage items you see at flea markets and yard sales, or even sites like CraigsList, it's worth whatever someone is willing to pay. And that's assuming that the item is complete (has all of its parts and pieces with it). I see two pieces in your picture, but no connecting levers, springs, rods, or wires, so I don’t have a high confidence factor that all of the necessary components are present. There are quite a few guys who visit this site who know a lot more than me about Fordsons, though, so maybe one of them will chime in and tell us more.

If you have any additional questions, e-mail is open.

– Maine Fordson
 

[andy41372]

thanks for the info and yes what you see is what I got I'm going to list it on e-bay just to see but if there is someone sho really needs it I would be willing to trade or possibly give it to them as I really do not need it I have 1 fordson and it is no where neer that old everything else I have is green, red and grey or just red again thanks for the info


ANDY