What kind of tiller is this?

[stanz]

First, I apologize if you have seen this post before, this is the second forum I've placed my query.

I picked up a tiller project today, at my local recycling center. I have no idea what brand it is, I can't find any nameplate or markings. Even the engine is unmarked, except for the Carter carb.

The one weird thing is the belt drive is in the front, most tillers I've seen have it behind the engine.

I have attached a few photos to help, any ideas would be appreciated!

 

[oldnslo]

Old Troy bilt would be my first guess.

 

[GolfAddict]

Old Troy bilt would be my first guess.

I agree. Looks like an old Horse model to me.

 

[stanz]

All the Troy Built tillers I've seen have the belts behind the engine. This one has them in front with a cast cover.

I got a picture of the engine decal, it's barely visible but definitely a Clinton 4 stroke.

 

[stanz]

It's a Roto-ette model 2 by Rototiller Company of Troy, NY. A precursor of Troy Bilt. It was built 11/1952, I found the ID information behind the attachment plate. I found a Troy Bilt forum on yahoo so I'm posting more over there.

 

[Kyle_in_Tex]

It's a Roto-ette model 2 by Rototiller Company of Troy, NY. A precursor of Troy Bilt. It was built 11/1952, I found the ID information behind the attachment plate. I found a Troy Bilt forum on yahoo so I'm posting more over there.

That thing is older than me! Is is running?

 

[stanz]

That thing is older than me! Is is running?

Yeah, it's a bit older than me as well. I'm waiting for a governor spring before I attempt to fire it up.

 

[Desert Panther]

status? whatever happened with that 1952 Clinton engine?

 

[stanz]

It's about where it was back then. My priorities changed a bit, my brother-in-law had a Bolens with a tiller that was partially torn apart. All I had to do was assemble the tractor, get the engine running, and find parts to attach the tiller. I got her running and tilled three gardens with it.

The Rotto-Ette will have to wait until spring.

 

[2deeskip]

My Father sold those Rototillers in the 50's. They came by railroad freight in wooden crates & were assembled by us for the customer. I recently aquired a complete unit, with the original clinton engine, that was sold by my dad. I plan to restore it.

Skip

 

[stanz]

Skip,

Wow, that's great. Post pics when you get around to the restoration please. If you were closer I'd talk to you about those worn out Case tractors. I sold a pair two years ago and I'm still kicking myself in my nether regions.

 

[2deeskip]

My "worn out" case tractors are just future projects, if I live long enough & I'm not known for selling things. The 446 I bought new in the early 70's, been rebuilt once & waiting for another, the 224 is still being used as a backup mower & the other 2 are for parts.
I showed the Rototiller as is, because it is complete, at a local show & it generated a lot of interest. It may be a while till I get to it. Got a Simplicity & Twister torn down right now.

Skip