Author |
Message |
john_deere_bill
New member Username: john_deere_bill
Post Number: 1 Registered: 06-2010
| Posted on Sunday, June 06, 2010 - 06:24 pm: |
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I have just come into ownership of a "barn find" Vivian engine. I don't know much about them other than they were an early engine built on the west coast during the early part of the 20th century. Its ident plate says 5hp serial number 1855. Is there anyone out there that might know how old it is or any other info on it. Haven't tried to start it yet but the old timer I got it from says it was running when he stored it about 20 yrs. ago |
miro
Senior Member Username: miro
Post Number: 467 Registered: 11-2001
| Posted on Tuesday, June 08, 2010 - 10:43 am: |
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There are a few members in BC that have an interest in the Vivian engines. Might take a couple of days for them to see your query. In the meantime, can you send pictures ( barn crud and all) If you have trouble re-sizing the picture files, there is a utility on the OME web site at the bottom of the topics listing to help you. Alternatively, send them by email to any one of the top 10 guys and they'll get 'em done. miro |
axtion_jim
Advanced Member Username: axtion_jim
Post Number: 38 Registered: 01-2006
| Posted on Tuesday, June 08, 2010 - 07:46 pm: |
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Hi Bill, The vivian engine is part of the Cullen Detroit engine group or family. That was Mr. Cullens pride and joy. I beleive there is still a vivian on display in the Surrey location. They were a nice looking engine, lots of brass etc.Nice piece of B.C. History. great find looking forward to seeing some photo`s. Jim |
joe_h
Advanced Member Username: joe_h
Post Number: 36 Registered: 05-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 09, 2010 - 01:55 am: |
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I think Robert in Victoria has history of the Vivian engines. There is no connection with Cullen Detroit Diesel other than Bobby Cullen worked for Bill Vivian on his way up the success ladder. Bill Vivian, who started the Vivian engine company, as a young man worked for the Easthope engine company. The Vivian engine you mention at the Surrey location was a momental birthday gift to Bobby Cullen from his sons who now run the place. By the way, Cullen Detroit Diesel is now owned by Roger Penzke and that display Vivian engine still exists....given to me by Bobby Cullen. |
axtion_jim
Advanced Member Username: axtion_jim
Post Number: 39 Registered: 01-2006
| Posted on Wednesday, June 09, 2010 - 02:55 pm: |
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Ah Joe you lucky dog, I had my eye on the engine for a long time and then one day it was gone. I was told it was out back and someone was to do some work to it. And about the Cullen thing I,m only quoting what I was told by the guy`s up front that work their. |