Farm Motors: Practical Hints for Handy-men

A classic book of American mechanical know-how.

The complete guide, originally published in 1908 presents the origins and mechanical principals of farm motors. Beginning with a brief and fascinating introduction to "the animal as a motor," authors Davidson and Chase explain how the consumption of energy (in the form of food) results in the production of carbon dioxide and other products of combustion. Such products of combustion, in turn result in mechanical energy. Using the mechanics of the horse as a springboard, Farm Motors goes on to present an accessible and fully illustrated tutorial on energy and its sources, the law of transformation of energy, prime movers (such as heat engines) versus electrical motors, and much more. Also included are clear explanations of the mechanics of the most popular types of farm motors - including waterwheels, tidal machines, and windmills; steam engines; internal-combustion engines; traction engines; and current electricity - along with information on their construction.Farm Motors is a fascinating slice of Americana as well as an important snapshot of the legacy of an industry that continues to sustain the American farmer. (4 1/2 X 7 1/4, 240 pages, b&w photos, illustrations, diagrams, charts)