PART TWO – DetailThe Macalister reel mower is unique in its ‘streamlined’ styling.
Their
Invercargill Foundry made the alloy chassis for weight saving.
This was a very
safe lawnmower – note the fully enclosed cutting
reel, belt cover, and the rear mounted catcher.
The
transmission was via V-belt to the reel, and chain drive
to the small diameter landroll. The clutch was for the landroll;
meaning that the engine would be started with reel turning.
![[Linked Image]](https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/images/jack/nz_macalister/macalister_mower_01.jpg)
Advertising information is scarce, but ODK's
Alan M did find
an ad from the
Otago Daily Times dating to late
1949.
![[Linked Image]](https://www.outdoorking-forum.com.au/forum/images/jack/nz_macalister/1949_12_otagodailytimes_28december.jpg)
I did find a later ad, also from the
Otago Daily Times,
dated
November, 1950. Given that this was an ‘introductory’ advertisement,
I have dated the Macalister to
1949-50. Patent information supports that date.
[see Part Three]
TO BE CONTINUED ...