3hp McCormick Deering M?

[Sid Post]

Aumann Auctions Pre-30 Lot Number: 627

Does anyone have any words of wisdom for me on this stationary engine? The paint looks good but, I don't know much about stationary engines either and want to learn. I figure this one is about 1,000lbs so, as big as I want to go. I need something complete that isn't going to be hard for me to "run" and keep in running condition. Looking at various John Deere E-type 1 1/2hp engines but, they all seem to be "loose" and I have no idea why some are cheap and some are expensive with a bunch of bidders other than just being John Deere fanatics with deeper pockets.

With a "loose" engine, I assume compression issues could be fixed at a reasonable expense with maybe just some new rings. It should also be easier to crank to get it started.

If there is a good forum for me to solicit wisdom on Stationary Engines, I would appreciate a pointer to a good stationary engine forum as well. The Auction on this engine closes on November 5th at 6:00PM. I don't know what a realistic final sales price range is so, any pointers there would be helpful too since I have a ~1400 mile round trip to pick it up if I win in addition to the 10% Buyers premium.

I should note that my other "purchase" options for stationary engines have all been really suspect for various reasons with what appeared to be OPTIMISTIC pricing. I'm not bottom fishing for price but, I also won't overpay from someone that has an old rusty engine that thinks it must be a valuable and rare find because they don't see similar options at the local flea market!

TIA,
Sid

 

[Sid Post]

I randomly hear about "great" stationary engines in good running condition "cheap" in the upper MidEast but, I have no good way to make a good "find" or even know something is for sale as I live in Texas.

I am also looking for something COMPLETE since finding parts is going to be close to Mission Impossible for me being in Texas and a newbie to these types of engines. I spent my early youth on a John Deere 730LP so, I have a soft spot for that "sound" and don't have a real need for a full-up tractor so, a stationary engine of reasonable weight seems a bit more practical to take to public events, tractor shows, etc. Who knows, I might end up with some tools to run it with and personally like the corn shellers at WMSTR in Rollag, MN!