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Clarendon Classic Machinery Rally: Classic Restos - Series 53

By Shannons - Published on 02 October 2023

Fletch is in Clarendon, NSW, for the Classic Rally organised by the Sydney Antique Machinery Club Inc. The event has gathered a fantastic collection of tractors, trucks and other machinery that is sure to delight anyone interested in piston-powered technology. Fletch provides a glimpse of what on offer.

First up is a collection of stationary engines that are all in working order. The collection includes an Australian-built 3hp open crank model from 1922 that was used to power corn mills, water pumps and shearing shed machinery, and a 1927 3.5hp Hercules from the US, which is set up to create a vacuum pump for milking sheds.

Next is a massive 1972 Foden 2-stroke diesel engine extracted from a New Zealand Navy Tugboat. This engine has never been used and is virtually brand new, providing an impressive sound.

Then there’s something completely different: Jim's custom-built truck, which has two 8V '71 GM engines from monstrous mine trucks paired together and generating 635hp.

The event showcases machinery of all shapes and sizes. Victa is a well-known lawnmower brand in Australia, and Colin, an avid collector, has over 70 Victa mowers in his collection. He proudly displays a vast collection of models at this year's show, including an early 1957 Victor that belonged to his grandfather and the latest 70th-anniversary model.

Tractors are also a highlight of the event, and collector Ben has an impressive restored/modified collection that includes a 1954 David Brown 30C Model, which he purchased for just $300. After discovering the engine was seized, he replaced it with a 350 Chev and twin turbo. While it looks like the original with a few modifications to fit the engine and twin-turbo, it is beautifully presented. Ben has similarly restored and modified two others, a 1968 Howard 2000, which now boasts a 1200cc modified motorbike engine and a 350 holy carburettor, and a smaller 1966 Howard 2000 that began with a 12hp Briggs and Stratton engine and now has a CH Mack Turbo and hand-built exhaust manifold.

Finally, the event wouldn't be complete without a Tractor Pull, which showcases the brute power of tractors and attracts both young and old.

Comments

Drag photos here
  • carnut_73

    carnut_73

    I may be American (United States) by birth and residence, but I still have an admiration and respect for Australia and New Zealand. And hopefully, I'll be able to fly down there before I die.

  • Blinkie1

    Blinkie1

    Agree with what your saying there carnut_73.

    • carnut_73

      carnut_73

      I don't generally use the word "Jap" to describe the Japanese. Contrary to what it sounds like, I have no dislike against the Japanese people.

  • carnut_73

    carnut_73

    I call it a damn shame that Holden is no longer producing cars in Australia. Competition from other car companies and countries can be a good thing, what's not a good thing is when you sit back and do nothing to improve your product while the competition continues to improve on the product, leaving you with the same basic product you had back in 1971. You may change the appearance of a car, but the mechanics of the car hasn't improved. While the Japs do the same basic thing, only better.

  • carnut_73

    carnut_73

    G'day Fletch. Another awesome show! It looks like a ripper event. Quite a collection of Holdens and GM vehicles. :)

  • Blinkie1

    Blinkie1

    Leave that Jacket out of it, next you be laying claim there PonyRider!

  • PonyRider

    PonyRider

    Hey Fletch, a very cool episode, thank you again.
    I might be a Ford man but I'm also an unbiased Aussie,
    and there were some sweet Holden rides at Taranaki Holden Club's display.
    .
    I saw 'your' Test Pattern jacket Blinkie, (couldn't miss it)
    I doubt that Fletch would part with it now though mate ! (lol)
    .
    Fletch, was that your car in the closing scene ?
    .
    Seriously, the Kiwi's passion for classic cars never fails to amaze me.

  • Blinkie1

    Blinkie1

    Fletch you thief! now I know who's got and been wearing my blazer then, way cool!!! That was one awesome show there Fletch mate. We must of just missed each other bro did see you but not close enough to speak. I think you must just about be a Naki boy buy now though mate. That FB was real nice though so were the rest of them on display both inside and outside.

    Cheers and thanks mate once again.
    Blinkie1