Vintage Horticultural and Garden Machinery Club | andyfrost | Activity https://vhgmc.co.uk/members/andyfrost/activity/ Activity feed for andyfrost. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:35:32 +0100 https://buddypress.org/?v= en-US 30 hourly 2 e970d02bae604dec35e2bdf849ec5118 andyfrost replied to the topic Oxford Allen / Villiers Scythe - Help Please! in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/oxford-allen-villiers-scythe-help-please/#post-44589 Sun, 08 Feb 2026 20:42:01 +0000 Fuel , I would only advise E5, You say you have a spark and that you have ultrasonically cleaned carb , and done a good flush of the tank , on that basis , it should start and run. I’m assuming you have reasonable compression , as exhaust valves have a habit of sticking if left for a period of time.

Andy.

]]> 64264020775e1654bc4d2f4bb43e44c8 andyfrost replied to the topic Oxford Allen / Villiers Scythe - Help Please! in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/oxford-allen-villiers-scythe-help-please/#post-44582 Sun, 08 Feb 2026 12:14:34 +0000 You appear to have one fitted with the MK 20 Villiers fourstroke , when up and running a very reliable engine

]]> 5cedb5c77fb3cd76808de858b977e968 andyfrost replied to the topic December 2026 magazine in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/december-2026-magazine/#post-44517 Wed, 17 Dec 2025 21:23:38 +0000 Mine arrived today , ROBERT you are doing a sterling job.

Andy.

]]> d314bbc43eb96875a0f8c6e311834757 andyfrost replied to the topic December 2026 magazine in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/december-2026-magazine/#post-44485 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:47:04 +0000 Many thanks Charlie.

Andy

]]> 8d084157a630352c3635dab0ba16f129 andyfrost replied to the topic December 2026 magazine in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/december-2026-magazine/#post-44483 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 10:18:31 +0000 Charlie , I’ve just paid my renewal , on the page it says “renewal due 2014” , but as far as I’m aware I’ve paid every year since then , and my insurance etc has all come through fine.

Andy.

]]> a48f22c77e0a83055eb576149d354389 andyfrost replied to the topic October 2025 magazine in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/october-2025-magazine/#post-44258 Sat, 25 Oct 2025 12:44:37 +0100 Mine too , a really nice tribute to Geoff.

Andy.

]]> eae64d30a6294c71f8918c4eaafec0ef andyfrost replied to the topic can anyone identify this tiller? in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/can-anyone-identify-this-tiller/#post-44148 Mon, 22 Sep 2025 09:45:40 +0100 Grahame , sorry was unaware of your sizes , I’ve used the more common sizes on Hondas Briggs etc. , and they work really well.

Andy.

]]> 93a345729c00843f865a7debc5f3ca36 andyfrost replied to the topic can anyone identify this tiller? in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/can-anyone-identify-this-tiller/#post-44146 Sun, 21 Sep 2025 14:08:31 +0100 Grahame , crankshaft converters are readily avaiable online.

Andy.

]]> cafb45b8a6ecb4c8b967976c3ebef4e2 andyfrost replied to the topic Fitting modern engine to Howard Clifford 700 in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/fitting-modern-engine-to-howard-clifford-700/#post-44126 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 15:16:09 +0100 E5 petrol at a mixture od 20/1 ratio , with a good quality MINERAL twostroke oil is what I run mine on.

Andy.

]]> e3e91dfbe12842c48c224b79bdda0536 andyfrost started the topic Weeley in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/weeley-4/ Sun, 14 Sep 2025 18:43:12 +0100 Back home and settled after another wonderful weekend at Weeley , as ever a HUGE thanks to Chris , our wam and welcoming host , and of course not forgetting Dave and Robert for all their hard work.
Roll on next year.

Andy.

]]> a4ce7d06d0ff6beda2baa6945e9cdd6b andyfrost replied to the topic Magneto HT connection in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/magneto-ht-connection/#post-44098 Fri, 05 Sep 2025 07:12:02 +0100 From memory there were two different ignition units on the 120 , Miller and Lucas.

Andy.

]]> 49c69dcbc5ad2c528e8c74058c1e7661 andyfrost replied to the topic What model of Shay? in the forum Grass Cutting Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/what-model-of-shay/#post-44094 Fri, 05 Sep 2025 06:08:10 +0100 You’ve got a real rarity there , I’ve never seen one before.

Andy.

]]> 47e9e04b8a1479f02e146c1d37303a05 andyfrost replied to the topic Magneto HT connection in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/magneto-ht-connection/#post-44093 Fri, 05 Sep 2025 06:06:10 +0100 Charlie , I’m fairly certain it’s soldered directly to the coil.

Andy.

]]> c1207d7f04d149ae9eaa39b3477a8b07 andyfrost replied to the topic BMB in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/bmb/#post-44027 Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:27:08 +0100 You can make your own from a suitable leather fashion belt , I did this with Father-in-laws Plowmate , glued it together with an industrial glue , a little bit of trial and error getting length right , but can assure you it will work well.

Andy.

]]> d15f83c7e3c908d20f2bda6729ae9a4f andyfrost replied to the topic Tiller box advice in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/tiller-box-advice/#post-44024 Tue, 26 Aug 2025 09:40:34 +0100 I’ve never worked on BCS boxes , all I can say is that ANY wear or play in rotor boxes will result in worn seals , so it’s vital to replace both seals and bearings……..this advice is based on 50yrs of working on Howard rotavators.

Andy.

]]> 66c4d8be053e60bf0e222dfbc59dbde4 andyfrost replied to the topic Geoff Ravenhall in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/geoff-ravenhall/#post-44011 Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:45:10 +0100 Very sad news indeed , I feel Weeley will be a very sombre weekend , above all our thoughts at this time are with those closest to Geoff.

Andy.

]]> 91509293a0c2536c180824028343cedf andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/page/2/#post-43969 Thu, 31 Jul 2025 14:08:48 +0100 Grahame , with all due respect , when you replaced your sheared B&S key did you just hand tighten the flywheel back on , or apply the correct spec of torque , I suspect the latter. Looking at the photo of your 2A key , it seems obvious to me that it is the result of damage caused by running with an incorrectly tightened flywheel.I’m certain that…[Read more]

]]> 3e1ac2addeff800bbfa283e223ae00e0 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/page/2/#post-43955 Thu, 24 Jul 2025 13:17:19 +0100 David , you’re correct, by Grahames admission the flywheel nut was only “hand tight” if it had been run like that it would not have lasted , the key would have shattered , resulting in untold damage very quickly indeed. JAP2A keys were never meant to shear , a steel key on a steel shaft in in steel housing is so obviously a recipe for disaster if…[Read more]

]]> d25a7fd92eb9659d39c516451657bd45 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/page/2/#post-43951 Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:55:17 +0100 I’ll have to wait for an accurate close-up of the key before passing judgement. No felt seal present is a further indicator that your engine has been apart before and been tampered with.

Andy.

]]> 212df4389a7b285e1196ce6ca9483faf andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/page/2/#post-43947 Tue, 22 Jul 2025 15:11:11 +0100 Grahame , one more question , and it may sound off topic , when you removed the flywheel , was the large thick felt seal present around the stator plate.

Andy.

]]> 9c4b094b79ac3d3fb9a572977229d262 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/page/2/#post-43946 Tue, 22 Jul 2025 14:31:30 +0100 H7 h6 or js6 , forgive my ignorance , but what exactly does that mean.

Andy.

]]> 82e3f57951e06b7453e534196d1bf470 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/#post-43941 Mon, 21 Jul 2025 22:35:01 +0100 Grahame , it would concern me when you said the pulley came of by hand , I can’t help but think all’s not right somewhere and would lead to flywheel/key/ crankshaft failure.All the 2As I’ve worked on the pulley tightens right up , and requires the impact gun to undo.
The points gap is usually stamped into the points inspection cover , I would…[Read more]

]]> 3e084e9523cfc345a4da82c0f3843a35 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/#post-43937 Mon, 21 Jul 2025 16:53:01 +0100 David , I’m not at all savvy with PCs , and haven’t yet fathomed how to blow-up photos , but the rollpin in his pics appears to me to be on the opposite end to the threaded part , but of course I could well be mistaken on that. Grahame states that he knocked the rollpin out , which to me would suggest that it went through the crankshaft ,…[Read more]

]]> 7153e18182093154aa1bebf37a586645 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/#post-43934 Mon, 21 Jul 2025 08:32:59 +0100 Grahame , I never said or meant you were complicating your ignition ideas , I admire you for having a go , and I really do hope it works , It appears to me a sound idea , if the situation happens whereby the original components are not available. Whilst parts are still readily available I tend to go down that route.
I have a large ammount of…[Read more]

]]> acc9d5249b33c499fcae3d3555fe5333 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/#post-43924 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 11:29:57 +0100 Grahame , you do seem to have made a most simple task complicated , 2As are one of , if not THE simplest engines to work on , as you have now seen , no awkward taper flywheels , keyed timing. Every 2A that I’ve done have always had a head gasket.
I can’t see from your pics , but did the rollpin actually go through the crankshaft , or just through…[Read more]

]]> 7e2089c24a474e66133d74b0844f931a andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/#post-43899 Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:06:38 +0100 Grahame , the starter pulley(the alloy part) and the steel inner(with the slot) are as such one unit , and upon undoing will come off as a complete unit , it’s then a simple task of drawing the flywheel off its staight shaft , in my experience they are very easy to remove.
Very recently I did a 2A on a Bulldog for a collector friend of mine ,…[Read more]

]]> 1607721a236701699c81b6960be8c049 andyfrost replied to the topic JAP 2a flywheel removal in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/jap-2a-flywheel-removal/#post-43893 Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:30:26 +0100 Grahame , every 2A I’ve ever worked on the flywheel is only held on by the starter pulley , you should see a large slot in the steel embossed inner part , I have a nut welded on a piece of steel that fits snugly into that slot and use an impact gun , it’s normal righthand thread, very often the flywheel will come of with a VERY SLIGHT tap from…[Read more]

]]> bf658aec80f3bf0cae66f7a070a55ca2 andyfrost replied to the topic How does the locking mechanism work on Auto Culto handle bars? in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/how-does-the-locking-mechanism-work-on-auto-culto-handle-bars/#post-43889 Wed, 09 Jul 2025 19:16:57 +0100 A photo of your machine will help , AC made loads of different machines.

Andy.

]]> f619ea9cab601e179d8eacd06db64b8e andyfrost replied to the topic Membership costs in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/membership-costs/#post-43857 Thu, 26 Jun 2025 20:40:01 +0100 Yes , Im all for the increase to keep this wonderful club afloat. I’ve also long thought that there should be a forsale section on here , but for CLUB MEMBERS ONLY , even more so if we have fewer magazines , perhaps we could have a membership vote on this??

Andy.

]]> 1379e1ece57af0db6849b6766063ca68 andyfrost replied to the topic Ex Air ministry Alcon Pumps in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/ex-air-ministry-alcon-pumps/page/2/#post-43851 Thu, 26 Jun 2025 07:15:33 +0100 OK David , but I can assure you the first 2As were fitted with the JAP carb , the Zenith came much later.

Andy.

]]> e81917cbeddea8e6934903a1faa52ee9 andyfrost replied to the topic Ex Air ministry Alcon Pumps in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/ex-air-ministry-alcon-pumps/page/2/#post-43845 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 20:30:31 +0100 David , the groove you refer to was an idea/design that JAP toyed with for a short period , it was also used on 4/3 , 5 models , but was quickly dropped. So in it’s original format that engine would have been fitted with a carb with the JAP logo cast into the fuel bowl , it was a very similar looking carb to the Zenith13. Traces of yellow paint on…[Read more]

]]> ba06b07a32d5ee76ea3f4568aa54c41a andyfrost replied to the topic Ex Air ministry Alcon Pumps in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/ex-air-ministry-alcon-pumps/#post-43838 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 10:17:08 +0100 David/Grahame , it may be worth getting in touch with Panks in Norwich , they used to be Alcon agents , pumps of all types was their speciality. My Father bought a brand new Villiers/Alcon unit from them when I was a youngster.
I know neither of you will agree , but the Alcon type pumps are not meant to be used for pressure applications , my…[Read more]

]]> 2aca6e732ff0f2a410cf384c14ce3cf1 andyfrost replied to the topic Parts for Howard Clifford 700 in the forum General talk and discussion https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/parts-for-howard-clifford-700/#post-43807 Tue, 10 Jun 2025 09:26:17 +0100 The person Grahame refers to does not have a clue about 700s , his speciality is the 300 series and a few Gem parts , if you want my advice it would be to steer well clear. I run and use a pair of 700s , and they are by some considerable ditance my favourite machine to use , machine parts , along with most engine spares are long obsolete , over…[Read more]

]]> 348a94da0db23aedbacda400d89b232e andyfrost replied to the topic Correcting fixed ignition timing in the forum Groundcare Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/correcting-fixed-ignition-timing/#post-43786 Wed, 04 Jun 2025 08:42:58 +0100 Ah , I read in your previous post that you said it had sheared the steel key , if it were a MK12 , which was the most common Villiers fitted to Alcon and like type pumps , it would have taper lock timing , if it were an F15 or F17 , then yes it would have keyed ignition timing.

Andy.

]]> 5a2ca99792f48807a6268596da67154e andyfrost replied to the topic Correcting fixed ignition timing in the forum Groundcare Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/correcting-fixed-ignition-timing/#post-43784 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 15:27:42 +0100 Grahame , if you don’t mind me asking , which model Villiers was the one with your sheared key problem , I’m guessing F series ???.

Andy.

]]> 52f013664abcdc64eeee098e4b962e18 andyfrost replied to the topic Cylinder Mower replacement blades, in the forum Garden implements https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/cylinder-mower-replacement-blades/#post-43761 Fri, 23 May 2025 16:36:09 +0100 David , there are a couple of firms that bought alot of old Ransomes stuff , and not a million miles from you. Try Stennets of Swilland , and and another chap by the name of Denison , not certain where he’s from , I think Saxmundham/Wickham Market area.

Andy.

]]> c6d1ce1c175948a89845cece228efb1b andyfrost replied to the topic Cylinder Mower replacement blades, in the forum Garden implements https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/cylinder-mower-replacement-blades/#post-43754 Thu, 22 May 2025 05:23:30 +0100 David , the man was corredt , the firm I worked for were Ransomes main agents , amongst many others , cutting out worn/damaged spirals and welding in new , and the final grind was a common occurence. As to whether they’re still available I don’t know.

Andy.

]]> 26b965e6347f7e20d811a9ef018f6484 andyfrost replied to the topic Howard Rotavator 200 Spares in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/howard-rotavator-200-spares/#post-43749 Tue, 20 May 2025 14:22:44 +0100 That sounds like a good result , the new diaphragm should cure the issues you mention , above all , be sure to run it on E5 fuel , E10 will ruin the diaphragm in very little time.
The reduction box I mentioned on your engine “MAY” be OK , I see from the pics that it has a fairly large pulley on it , so depending on what the box ratio is it could…[Read more]

]]> 46124bd8d3f59370567fe0fc8842277b andyfrost replied to the topic Howard Rotavator 200 Spares in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/howard-rotavator-200-spares/#post-43742 Mon, 19 May 2025 15:01:40 +0100 The later type wheels will not fit , hence I suggested the cambelt approach, Those little Briggs engines are very reliable and easy to work on , first thing is sort the spark out , and move on to the carb , give it a thorough clean ,along with the tank, and most importantly fit a new GENUINE diaphragm. Any problems , then report back.

Andy.

]]> a1f6e08d3ca1262e9a6cbfe0ee88511b andyfrost replied to the topic Landmaster/Garden master rotavators in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/landmaster-garden-master-rotavators/#post-43737 Thu, 15 May 2025 10:14:42 +0100 Measure , the housing diameter , shaft diameter and the depth of your exsisting seal and your local seal stockist should be able to offer a match.

Andy.

]]> c489b7289efcfda51b53dff5942c4709 andyfrost replied to the topic Fuel Taps in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/fuel-taps/#post-43735 Tue, 13 May 2025 06:12:57 +0100 John , all I will add is , whatever method you use is to aviod E10 fuel at all costs , the modern corks will just not last with it , also stating the obvious is to never let them run dry.

Andy.

]]> f13d2b9c0200660bd450b9450778c545 andyfrost replied to the topic Howard Rotavator 200 Spares in the forum Pedestrian operated machines https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/howard-rotavator-200-spares/#post-43733 Tue, 13 May 2025 06:08:46 +0100 I run and use a couple of 200s , they’re great little machines , albeit mine are the later version with the heavy duty chunkier tyres , yours is the early version , and tyres were a problem. My only suggestion is , as others have done is to glue heavy duty cambelt material to your existing wheels , original new ones are not available.
One thing I…[Read more]

]]> 42a78cc709f0017b2b7b2f9f421ff462 andyfrost replied to the topic Fuel Taps in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/fuel-taps/#post-43723 Fri, 09 May 2025 16:08:24 +0100 Yes , all conventional Ewarts taps fitted to Villiers.

Andy.

]]> d545cc8e5fc136b870e3e1d93bf1fc86 andyfrost replied to the topic Fitting modern engine to Howard Clifford 700 in the forum Help and information https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/fitting-modern-engine-to-howard-clifford-700/#post-43721 Wed, 07 May 2025 15:46:55 +0100 700s are my great passion , personally I much prefer to keep them original , the weight distribution was nigh on perfect. I’ve never fitted a replacement engine , but a number of people have…. I just love the sound, power and ease of starting of the 28B engine. I have amassed a number of engine spares over the years which should keep my two…[Read more]

]]> 2cdc5ff7a7c140536277a0514dccb15f andyfrost replied to the topic Atco jap mower engine in the forum Grass Cutting Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/atco-jap-mower-engine/#post-43718 Sun, 04 May 2025 21:05:07 +0100 It is a 350cc JAP , I have the same engine in an Emery rotavator , as posted earlier it should have an Amal carb(with choke incorporated in the slide) , not exactly a common engine by any means.Magneto should be Wico series A.

Andy.

]]> 35fe6e175e7d20eafd496f521dfdce25 andyfrost replied to the topic Bernard W317 no spark in the forum Groundcare Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/bernard-w317-no-spark/#post-43713 Sat, 03 May 2025 08:28:13 +0100 Grahame , firstly I respect your enthusiasm , and ideas. The mag tester I have access to does not rotate the mag , it tests whether the coil/condenser is functioning as it should , obviously if
either fail , they are replaced. After coming away from the test and all is good , then there is simply no need to rotary test. All larger dealers had…[Read more]

]]> 74bfa7c31557c332ab938b67037a696e andyfrost replied to the topic Bernard W317 no spark in the forum Groundcare Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/bernard-w317-no-spark/#post-43709 Fri, 02 May 2025 16:12:37 +0100 Regarding the testing with a multimeter or a proper purpose built tester , with the purpose built tester you eliminate all the “probablies” or “maybes” , and get a concrete definate answer. It’s down to personal choice , mine based on lifetimes experience(well over 50yrs) is trusting 100% the purpose built tester.

Andy.

]]> f778989a3bace500d9befa16515d8858 andyfrost replied to the topic Ransomes engine carb improvement in the forum Grass Cutting Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/ransomes-engine-carb-improvement/page/2/#post-43708 Fri, 02 May 2025 14:23:18 +0100 David , to be fair that isn’t the fault of the machine , if you start it up in gear these things will happen. My Father-in-law had an MG6 , with hydraulics , I fully rebuilt the engine for him , and it started extremely easy , and ran like a clock. The SA engine you have are first class , and if all is right will start and run lovely.

Andy.

]]> e4971522b2db0f77f8d07e4a24efede7 andyfrost replied to the topic Ransomes engine carb improvement in the forum Grass Cutting Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/ransomes-engine-carb-improvement/#post-43696 Thu, 01 May 2025 11:46:54 +0100 Grahame , there is no throttle linkage , the SA engine is ungoverned , just has a simple and reliable slide type carb.

Andy.

]]> 260ca9dde4dbfbce4500412c41effea1 andyfrost replied to the topic Ransomes engine carb improvement in the forum Grass Cutting Machinery https://vhgmc.co.uk/forums/topic/ransomes-engine-carb-improvement/#post-43692 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:54:06 +0100 David , have tou tried Neil Jarret , if it’s the same float as in an MG2 , he may have one.

Andy.

]]>