| Author |
Message |
    
Andy Hathaway
| | Posted on Thursday, April 15, 2004 - 03:45 pm: | 
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I have two six cylinder diesels 6 3/4" bore X 10" stroke working in my boat. Attached are two gears, 1:1 w/ reverse. They are not functioning correctly as they do not stay in reverse or never get fully engaged.
Engines work well. Trans do not. They are known as Joe's Gears. I am looking for someone with some expertise in the gears as well as tuning up the engines. Any info would be gratefully accepted. |
robert
New member
Username: robert
Post Number: 1
Registered: 07-2004
| | Posted on Friday, July 16, 2004 - 12:03 pm: |
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I have a factory manual for the engine. Do you need a copy? Dan Grinstead in Seattle knows Vivians and Joe's Gears I'm sure. There is certainly expertise around Vancouver/Victoria B.C. too, as Vivians were common around here and were in a few B.C. Ferry Corp. vessels into the 1970s and perhaps 80s. Deas Dock in Ladner would be a good place to ask around. |
robert
New member
Username: robert
Post Number: 2
Registered: 07-2004
| | Posted on Friday, July 16, 2004 - 12:36 pm: |
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I assume this is the same engine? |
Michael Kenneth Taylor
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, March 12, 2006 - 02:34 pm: |
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I have a metal plate: 4" X 12 3/4" with 8 mounting holes, and raised lettering: 9 X 12, Vivian-Diesel, Vivian Diesels and Munitions Ltd., No. of Cyls. 6, Vancouver B.C. Canada, Engine No. 2650. I would like to identify the vessel or ?, and the date. All advice is most welcome. Thanks |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 103
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Monday, March 13, 2006 - 06:29 pm: |
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According to the Articles of Incorporation, Vivian Diesels & Munitions Ltd. was incorporated August 18th, 1942. Therefore your engine was probably made after that date. Unfortunately, Canadian Car and Foundry who ended up with all the Vivian Engine Works records, patterns, parts etc. destroyed the lot in about 1976. I've heard a story that some material was saved, but unless the sales ledgers survived somehow and one day surface, I doubt you will ever find out what vessel the engine was on, except by tracing the previous owners and asking them. |
redneckalbertan
New member
Username: redneckalbertan
Post Number: 1
Registered: 06-2006
| | Posted on Thursday, June 29, 2006 - 01:47 am: |
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My Uncle recently came upon an 8 cylinder Vivian Engine. It runs but he is looking for information on firing order of the engine as well as other general information on the engine. I was wondering where a person could start looking for this. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 112
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Thursday, June 29, 2006 - 10:02 am: |
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What size engine is it? Is there a maker's plate still? I have some manuals I could copy for you if you find out which model it is.
Is this gas or diesel? |
eric_schulz
New member
Username: eric_schulz
Post Number: 1
Registered: 01-2007
| | Posted on Friday, January 05, 2007 - 10:57 pm: |
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Readers may be interested to know that Vivian engines were also built under licence in Australia by Commercial Steels & Forge Co P/L, Sydney. This was in 1945. Only the 4 cyl, 6-3/4 x 10, 80hp size was built. How many were built or for how long I do not know.}} |
sailmaster
New member
Username: sailmaster
Post Number: 3
Registered: 11-2006
| | Posted on Saturday, January 06, 2007 - 07:34 am: |
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When I was in the Canadian Navy I was lucky enough to work on a large Vivian diesel. It was a generator on the HMCS Cape Britain. The ship saw action in Normandy and was a floating foundry and machine shop. I and another L/S Engineer were tasked in getting it running back in 1980. It was at least 200 KW or larger and was started with compressed air. You may info at the Canadian Armed Forces Fleet School in Esquimalt, Victoria B.C. They keep allot of old manuals around. The Cape Britain is now a artificial reef near Nanaimo, B.C. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 151
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, January 06, 2007 - 10:08 am: |
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I assume that was the Cape Breton? |
sailmaster
Member
Username: sailmaster
Post Number: 4
Registered: 11-2006
| | Posted on Sunday, January 07, 2007 - 08:21 am: |
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Your right. It was spelled Cape Breton, but I wrote the e-mail in word and pasted it and I guess it spell checked it to Britain. Do you know the ship? Are you Canadain? I figured if you new the spelling for Cape Breton Island then you probably are. I am but live in Grenada on my sailbot currently. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 152
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, January 07, 2007 - 04:09 pm: |
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I knew of the ship. I am Canadian. Wish I was in Grenada in a sailboat!
Eric, that is interesting info. Are any engines still running there, or any stocks of spares still in existence somewhere? |
eric_schulz
Member
Username: eric_schulz
Post Number: 6
Registered: 01-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, January 07, 2007 - 08:33 pm: |
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*Are any engines still running there, or any stocks of spares still in existence somewhere?*
That's more than I can say, but the chances are pretty slim on either question as this is over 60 years ago. My interest is not in shipping, just engines, Especially researching Australian engine history.}} |
nzvivian
New member
Username: nzvivian
Post Number: 1
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 05, 2007 - 07:01 pm: |
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Good morning, I have some questions regarding a 3 cylinder Vivian inboard diesel. I don't know very much about it, other than it is the 52hp model. I would very much like to get a workshop manual or other information on the unit. Any help would be really appreciated. Please email me with any questions, information or otherwise. Or post it here, for the edification of all.
Cheers,
Dave |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 166
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 05, 2007 - 10:56 pm: |
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Hello Dave, NZ is New Zealand I assume? Do you know what the bore and stroke of the engine are? So far, your's is the first three cylinder is existence I have heard of. I know 2, 3 and 4 cylinder engines were made, but have not heard of a 2 or 3 cylinder surviving till now. I can probably help with a manual if we know the size. Is there a maker's plate on the engine and is it running or not? |
nzvivian
New member
Username: nzvivian
Post Number: 2
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 05, 2007 - 11:37 pm: |
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Yes, Christchurch New Zealand. Thank you for your prompt response. I am writting on behalf of one of the men I work with, so I will pass on these questions. We will reply when we get more details.
The engine is not running, but was powering the irrigator on his farm until the 1970s - until a flood took out the pump house. Assuming, incorrectly it turns out, that the engine had taken water on and 'hydraulic'd', the insurance company paid for an electric motor replacement. With a new manifold made (after the original corroded) and installed, the unit has since sat in the workshop. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 167
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, June 06, 2007 - 01:49 am: |
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OK, will await your further info. If the manifold corroded and split, we can assume this was a marine engine, not a stationary I think. Hope the owner has it full of straight anti-freeze, in the water jackets that is? |
nzvivian
New member
Username: nzvivian
Post Number: 3
Registered: 06-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 12, 2007 - 05:16 pm: |
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Let us begin...
The injector pump has a plate on it stating:
American Bosch
APE 3B-100P-400 5603 27499
The side plate on the govenor drive:
550-243
Govenor no:
A1 795115
Tappet Cover no (perhaps a part number?):
5-1104
and the bore is 5 1/2". We have a set of rings for it!
Any help would really be appreciated. Thanks |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 168
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, June 12, 2007 - 10:54 pm: |
|
That's the first time I've heard of a bore less than 6" in a Vivian. The injection side of it is all off-the-shelf Bosch kit IIRC, so you should have no trouble getting parts there. There should be a plate measuring about 3" x 4" similar to this one on the engine.
 |
fred gagen
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2007 - 04:02 am: |
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Looking for info on likely engine as fitted to 50ft.Admiralty Motor Fishing Vessel...Year 1950.
It was hand-cranked but no other details.
Info needed for research.
Thanks in anticipation. |
Gordon Dunlop
Visitor
| | Posted on Wednesday, August 01, 2007 - 12:13 pm: |
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Hi, I have available a 160 hp vivian engine that has been in storage for a few years. It was running when it was taken out of service as a eletric power generator for a small community that was hooked up to a larger grid.
Is there any interest in this specimen?
If so please e-mail me: gdunlop@northwestel.net |
David Bartle
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, September 09, 2007 - 03:57 am: |
|
I worked on the Vesuvius Queen (originally the Lloyd-Jones) and the Saltspring Queen, both of which had 8 cylinder Vivian diesel (9 x 12) main engines and (6 x 9) two cylinder auxiliary diesels, Made in Vancouver BC. Both types were air start. I might have a photocopy of one of the manuals in my notes.
Lloyd-Jones ran from the westside of the Okanagan lake to Kelowna BC prior to the floating bridge. It was cut up and moved to the gulf islands (BC) and re-assembled , renamed and put into service running between Crofton and Vesuvius for BCFerries. The Saltspring queen was previously named the Bowen Queen and ran originally across the Fraser river between Delta and Richmond prior to the George Massy tunnel. It was renamed the Saltspring Queen and did service between Fulford Harbour on Salt Spring Island and Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island. I think I also have some photos of the engines too.
I'll check and post if I can find them. |
Capt. M. Schmidt-Bremer
Visitor
| | Posted on Friday, November 16, 2007 - 12:01 pm: |
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In Maputo, Mocambique, I found the tug XEFINA resting in the small craft harbour. During the years I served in the port I collected with a few other parts the makers plate (brass) of the main engine "9x12, VIVAN-DIESEL, VIVIAN DIESELS AND MUNITIONS LTD., No. Cyls. 6, VancouverB.C Canada, Engine No. 2772". The plate served as cover of the cooling system. My interest lies in the construction year and the first service area of this small tug. The wreck sank in 2000 alongside the quay. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 184
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Friday, November 16, 2007 - 04:52 pm: |
|
Interesting to hear of an engine as far off as Mozambique. We cannot be certain of the year of manufacture as all records were reportedly destroyed by Canadian Car & Foundry in about 1976. (They were the successor company) Based on serial numbers I have been able to date accurately, 2772 was likely built between 1939 and 1942. Do you have any photos of the tug, or know of its previous names, if any? Thank you for posting. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 185
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Friday, November 16, 2007 - 04:57 pm: |
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Dave (NZVivian), sorry if you were waiting for a reply. I'm not even sure if workshop manuals were printed for these engines, or if the factory anticipated doing overhauls themselves. I can probably help with a copy of an operating manual for a larger engine. Most materials would the same or similar I suppose. |
L Taub
Visitor
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 05:28 pm: |
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I have 2 vivian engines with dc generators that has been unused for a few years. They are running and our mechanic that passed away last march was an expert in Vivian engines the 3 cylinders is a 25 KW DC output in perfect running condition and the 4 cylinder is 40 KW DC also in perfect runing condition. We overhauled both of them and also we have a 9 by 12 8 cylinder 450 HP marine engine that is installed in my ship.I changed my mind and decided to take out the generators off my boat and install 220/380 volts AC electricity onboard, so we are just know dismantelling and taking out the 2 generators off the ship. We went thru the three engines in 2003 and our project was to refurbish the ship to original condition that is why we overhauled the three engines and never used the generators since overhauled, and most important is that they are in absolutly original messurement condition like if never used.
Is there any interest in this two marine generators I am willing to sell them ?
I am in Tigre Argentina my email: taubluis@yahoo.com
If so please e-mail me: taubluis@yahoo.com |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 186
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, November 24, 2007 - 11:07 pm: |
|
Would you mind telling us more about your ship and where she was built?
How have you found the 9x12 engine to operate? How many hours does it have and what did you late mechanic think of the engines?
It is doubtful there is much market for the engines unless a buyer has such an engine and wants spares or wants a large slow running diesel for economy reasons.
How is the fuel consumption on the 9x12 engines.
Thanks for posting about this, always interesting to hear about surviving engines. |
Tony P
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, January 20, 2008 - 06:40 am: |
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Does anyone know about any Vivian advertisments around the start of WW II ? I have a picture of my grandad's fish boat in burrard Inlet with the Vancover sun tower in the background.
The Vivian engine in the boat had been rebuilt and the boat is traveling ar full speed. I was told that it was a publicity photo for Vivian engines. |
GeoffScott
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, January 20, 2008 - 03:48 pm: |
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Dave Bartle:
I worked on the Old Ladner Ferry in 1950. It ran between Richmond and Ladner and was replaced by the Tunnel in 1959. This ferry was called M.V Delta Princess and had two Vivian 9X12 240 BHP main engines and two Vivian 6 1/2 X 8 Two Cylinder Aux DC Generators. which were 30 BHP Original engineers were Gunner Axelson ( chief )
George Franson, Bob Cook and Myself Geoff Scott
They were taken over and re-named by the BC Ferry Corp of which I retired from in 1990 off the Queen of Vancouver. Not sure if these vessels are still used ?
Would be nice to find out more information or hear from you or anyone. sccrt@shaw.ca |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 200
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Monday, January 21, 2008 - 02:38 am: |
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Tony, if you can send your email to Andrew, the site owner and moderator, he can pass it on to me and I may be able to help. |
James Clark
Visitor
| | Posted on Monday, February 25, 2008 - 06:52 pm: |
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Re. Mosambique Tug Wreck, Capt M. Scmidt-Bremer
I found this posting while researching something else. In 1942, General Bridge Company of Trenton, Ontario, Canada started building 64ft., 74 ton harbour tugs for a British Admiralty order equiped with 240hp. Vivian Diesels. By 1945, 240 tugs had been built. A high degree of Prefabrication was used with even the engine room piping and wireing harneses pre assembled on jigs. Since the yard was two miles from Trenton Harbour the completed tugs were taken by rail to Trenton Harbour for launch, then accross lake Ontario and through the Erie Canal to New York for distribution as deck cargo overseas.
The man in charge of this project was Herb Ditchburn. Ditchburn boats were made in the Muskoka Lakes and are now concidered prize collector's items.
This Tug project is now just a footnote in History and is largely forgotten, Since they were shipped worldwide it would not surprise me if "XEFINA" is one of them. |
john a brinkman
Visitor
| | Posted on Thursday, October 16, 2008 - 08:01 pm: |
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hi have 2 vivian gen engines
8cyl,from bethlehem iron marmora
10cyl,from eatons annex toronto
looking for manuals or any lit.
thanks john a brinkman |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 226
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Thursday, October 16, 2008 - 08:23 pm: |
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Welcome. What sizes are your engines, ie: bore and stroke? I have some manuals. |
Clark Leighs
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, November 02, 2008 - 02:57 pm: |
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HI, not a member but read periodically. This is just to let you know that Burrard Yacht Club, North Vancouver, B/.C. has a tanker as part of their breakwater called the Dundurn. It has two 8 cyl Vivian diesels. The ship is still in pretty decent shape. If anyone is interested BYC maintains a website and could be contacted that way. I don't know if any one has any info about the ship and her power, But Jamie, the Mtce. Mgr would know. |
Doug Berry
Visitor
| | Posted on Wednesday, November 12, 2008 - 04:57 pm: |
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Vancouver Vocational Institure had a running Vivian in the classroom when it was down on Pender St. They had service manuals as well. I know they moved the Campus but worth checking into. |
Megan Harvey
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, November 16, 2008 - 03:59 pm: |
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Hi,
Could any of you provide information about this engine? It is currently at the Museum of Transport and Technology in Auckland (NZ), but has been in storage for a few years.
All I know is that it is a Vivian, 3-cylinder marine engine, type A.
  |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 228
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, November 16, 2008 - 05:30 pm: |
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That is an 18hp "Medium Duty" engine. I can send you a catalogue page showing the engine, if you wish. There should be a maker's plate on the cylinder head at the flywheel end of the engine, with the serial number and HP rating. If that is missing, the serial number is also stamped on the machined flat close to the distributor/timer on the upper crankcase. With the enclosed reverse gear, this would be a late 30s or probably 1940s engine with a serial in the 3000 to 3500 range. Production of their gas engines ceased in about 1950. There would have been a WICO magneto on the mounting flange shown in the bottom right area of your first photo. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 229
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, November 16, 2008 - 05:40 pm: |
|
That is an 18hp "Medium Duty" engine. I can send you a catalogue page showing the engine, if you wish. There should be a maker's plate on the cylinder head at the flywheel end of the engine, with the serial number and HP rating. If that is missing, the serial number is also stamped on the machined flat close to the distributor/timer on the upper crankcase. With the enclosed reverse gear, this would be a late 30s or probably 1940s engine with a serial in the 3000 to 3500 range. Production of their gas engines ceased in about 1950. There would have been a WICO magneto on the mounting flange shown in the bottom right area of your first photo. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 236
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Monday, December 08, 2008 - 01:57 am: |
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I have found my Vivian diesel manuals. Those interested in digital copies, please post what type of engine you need manuals for and I will try to get them digitized and posted somewhere. |
David Bartle
Visitor
| | Posted on Friday, January 30, 2009 - 11:00 pm: |
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I have a scanned copy of the Vivian parts catalogue(no photos in manual) for a Vivian 5 1/2 x 8" engine for anyone who requires one. It seems to be for engines from 2 through 8 cylinders of this bore.
Vivian Engine Works Ltd. was bought out by Can-Car or Canadian Car (Pacific) Limited, Vancouver, B.C.
The parts catalogue (No.231S23) is for engines #3597 and #3598 effective March 1, 1949 |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 251
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, January 31, 2009 - 12:55 am: |
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I have been scanning too: the 9x12 Marine Diesel manual is scanned and available. John, I emailed you about it, but no reply. |
David Bartle
Visitor
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 - 07:39 pm: |
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I have a scan of the 6 3/4 x 10 manual if anyone requires it.
 |
David Bartle
Visitor
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 - 07:46 pm: |
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Also have the 9 x 12 scan too. |
david_bartle
New member
Username: david_bartle
Post Number: 1
Registered: 02-2009
| | Posted on Sunday, March 01, 2009 - 10:24 pm: |
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Saltspring Queen Vivian 2 cylinder air start engines 5 x 8 attached to the 120 volt DC generators
 |
andlar
New member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 1
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 - 05:44 am: |
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Hi I have a steel tugboat located in Sweden built in Trenton, Ontario, Canada 1945 with a running 6 cylinder Vivian 9"x12" desel engine.
I am intressted in history of the yard and also the Vivian company.
I whould like to by an instruction manual in god conndition for this engine.
And if there is someone that know any parts avalible for this engine in Europe or elswer, pleas let me know.
Best regard.
Anders Larsson |
alcleary
Member
Username: alcleary
Post Number: 15
Registered: 12-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 - 09:14 pm: |
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Hi Anders:
I live 15 minutes from Trenton Ontario and know that they did build boats in the 1940's for the war effort. If you could give me as much information as you can about the boat, like the length, serial number and a photo, I will try to research as much as I can. I have a few marine books but there is also a local "Collections and Archives for Marine History" that will help with the search. Hope this will help,
Al Cleary |
reggie
Visitor
| | Posted on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - 03:09 am: |
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hey anders...the new owner of the Ehkoli has many parts for the 9x12 vivian
reg
 
he's in B.C....I will check back |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 257
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - 04:41 am: |
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Did you get my email Andlar? |
andlar
New member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 2
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - 11:22 am: |
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Yes I got your emaile Mr Rober. |
andlar
New member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 3
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - 11:26 am: |
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Hi reggi do you know the address to the Ehkoli?
Best regard
Andlar |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 258
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - 11:31 am: |
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http://www.tc.gc.ca/shipregistry/menu.asp |
gerard_vanzetta
New member
Username: gerard_vanzetta
Post Number: 1
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - 08:53 pm: |
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would like to see old manuals for "500"series 10 cyl.Vivian engines.12" X 12" bore&stroke.The only "true" square engines I ever scraped in new poured main berrings on. |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 262
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, March 14, 2009 - 09:53 pm: |
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Hello Gerard, I don't have anything on those engines myself. Sorry. |
reggie
Visitor
| | Posted on Sunday, March 15, 2009 - 02:03 am: |
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hey anders...he lives aboard and I don't know the adress of the marina ...bbut I will be seeing him next week and will bring his attention to this thread
what parts are you looking for, I think he has more than a couple of everything :}
...reg |
gerard_vanzetta
New member
Username: gerard_vanzetta
Post Number: 2
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, March 21, 2009 - 09:19 pm: |
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still looking for info. on 10 cyl. 500Hp.12x12 Vivians.I think they were the last "500",s made. They were on the Alexander MaKenzie, a Canada Coast Guard ship,out of Prince Rupert B.C..Built in 1955,@ Yarrows,Victoria,B.C. |
andlar
Member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 4
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 02:58 am: |
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Hi Reggie,I am intressted in all kinde off parts. At the time I am checking rocker arms and might need some parts. I am also intressted in all sorts off tecnical info on the engine and the ship yard where the boat was built. |
john a brinkman
Visitor
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 - 09:36 pm: |
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hi gerry i have a square diesel 9x12 10 cyl.
vivian 705 778 7246 tot siens |
reggie
Visitor
| | Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 02:27 am: |
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Anders...Isaw him today, he said the ship wa built by mercers vancouver 1941
he has the same manual as above and the ship came with a very capable engineer, so ask your technical questions and I will pass them along.
I asked him "what parts do you have" pistons liners con rods crank shaft injectors pumps rockers valves berings etc
...reg |
andlar
Member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 5
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 11:08 am: |
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Mr Brinkman can you tell some more about youre engine and is it just an engine or is it in a boat?
Where is it located, do you have any spare parts? |
john a brinkman
Visitor
| | Posted on Thursday, March 26, 2009 - 04:34 pm: |
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hi its just an engine was stationary gen. engine
in eatons toronto its complet and now in my
shop no spare parts have 8 cyl.vivian also
thanks john
ps trent river ontario |
corey
New member
Username: corey
Post Number: 1
Registered: 04-2009
| | Posted on Sunday, April 26, 2009 - 04:23 pm: |
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HI
I have a Vivian 5HP that I am hoping someone can help with information. It is 2 cylinder, with one being a air commpressor. Serial number is 2387. I've read all of the information here on this site and haven't been able to find much information on the small ones. I believe it was probably used to make air for the starter. It appears to be original and complete. Any tips to steer me in the right direction for dating, parts, manuals, etc. would be greatly appreciated.
Thank-you
Corey
PS-This is a great site!
 |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 267
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, April 26, 2009 - 09:27 pm: |
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Corey, there are no operating manuals available, nor have I ever seen or heard of one. From the serial number, I'd estimate this unit was made 1940-46. I have another starting compressor unit logged serial number 2398. The viewing ports on the crankcase cover of your engine I have not seen before. I assume someone added those; a good idea. Do you have any history on the engine? |
corey
New member
Username: corey
Post Number: 2
Registered: 04-2009
| | Posted on Monday, April 27, 2009 - 03:23 pm: |
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Hi Robert
Thanks for your response. I purchased the engine in Cambell River BC quite a few years ago. I've been involved with other aspects of old engines. I haven't seen any other small Vivians. There must be some acompaning the larger Vivians discussed earlier. I am sure you noticed the barrel on the compressor had a pretty serious repair done to it. It still seems to function OK. If there was ever the possibility of finding a replacement I would certainly be very interested.
Thanks for your help and any other information you have on the Vivians would be interesting.
Corey |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 268
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Monday, April 27, 2009 - 09:39 pm: |
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Corey, I have a 'register' of Vivian gas and diesel engines I have heard of, or seen reference to with about 40 engines in it and as many again that are just nameplates. The gas engines were almost always saltwater cooled and as such tended to end up blown apart and discarded. No replacement heads or cylinders were available, or at least they became unavailable decades before Easthope parts did, and so fewer engines have survived until now. Of course Easthope parts are still available in some cases from Joe H. here on this forum. Is that frost or rust damage to the compressor cylinder? Quite a few of these compressor units seem to have survived; probably people thought they would be useful and so kept them when the engines they were used with were scrapped. As both cylinders were cooled as a unit, the corrosion problems are usually about the same from what I've seen. You could probably grind that brazing(?) down and improve the look if you wanted to. Is there any cracking in the front cylinder or heads? |
redneckalbertan
New member
Username: redneckalbertan
Post Number: 2
Registered: 06-2006
| | Posted on Monday, April 27, 2009 - 10:28 pm: |
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Robert, in your last post you mentioned that, "...gas engines were almost always saltwater cooled and as such tended to end up blown apart..."
The question that I have for you is; what does being cooled with salt water have to do with the engines ending up wrecked? Is it that it is hard to retrofit a conventional closed circuit water cooling system or does it have to do with the salt in the water?? |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 269
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, April 28, 2009 - 01:11 am: |
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Well, these engines like many other salt or raw water cooled engines, accumulate salt in the porous structure of the cast iron where it gradually corrodes and forms concretions that 'grow' and split the water jackets apart, and even crack the inner wall of the cylinder sometimes. This process is accelerated when the water jackets are allowed to dry out. I can't explain why, but that is well known from the experience of thousands of people and engines. Retrofitting a closed cooling system, (fresh water or coolant) will delay the process, but once the engine has been cooled with salt water for any length of time, the salts are deposited and removing them is a very difficult process that may never be done entirely. George's process detailed on this site of heating the salt-affected parts to 800 degrees or so for a prolonged period seems to eliminate or convert the salts that are embedded in the porous structure of the cast iron, but I'm not aware of any other method that can do this, except possibly the very protracted electrolytic baths used by museum conservators. These can take years of treatment with careful and continuous monitering to neutralized the salts. This salt issue is the bane of the existence of marine engine collectors and restorers, the evidence is everywhere to see on this site! There are more engines on the coasts, but in poorer condition than what you find on the lakes and rivers inland. |
redneckalbertan
New member
Username: redneckalbertan
Post Number: 3
Registered: 06-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, April 28, 2009 - 06:39 pm: |
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Robert, Thanks for your quick responce to the question. I didn't know that salt could have an effect like that on steel. |
corey
New member
Username: corey
Post Number: 3
Registered: 04-2009
| | Posted on Thursday, April 30, 2009 - 01:23 pm: |
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Hi Robert
The 40 engines on your register, are they mostly large ones? What part of the world do most of them reside in? The damage on the compressor cylinder appears to be frost damage. Other than that, the entire unit does not show signs of much wear or any other cracks breaks or welds. I've considered wrapping a thin piece of something around the cylinder head, but so far it doesn't bother me that much. Appreciate your sharing of information.
Corey |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 271
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Friday, May 01, 2009 - 11:53 pm: |
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Corey, they are mostly smaller gas engines and most residie in BC, with a few in neighboring states of the USA. As you can see from this thread though, Vivians, especially the diesels did get exported all over the world during and after WWII. There is an article in Raincoast Chronicles No9 on Will Vivian and his company which remains the best source published. There is also an article on Peck Easthope in Raincoast Chronicles No5, for those interested in Easthopes. Keep your engine full of straight anti-freeze and change it every 6 months or a year is the best advice short of a full rebuild with one of the above treatments. If you can pull a plug in the cylinder head and thread in hose fitting a put a piece of clear hose about a foot long on it. Then fill the jackets until the hose is mostly full. You can then see at a glance if fluid is being lost. This is what Mystic Seaport Museum does, so I read here once. |
gsanford
New member
Username: gsanford
Post Number: 1
Registered: 05-2009
| | Posted on Friday, May 29, 2009 - 02:44 pm: |
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robert,i have a vivian 7.5x10 four cylinder ,it is very good condition ,it was used to generate power as a backup for a small community. before that it was in a tug on a large lake in the central cariboo in bc.it looks to be used very little.it was maintained by a friends father untill his death a couple of years ago.and has not been started in many years .i will be starting it up soon and was needing some information. i hope you can help please contact me @780-865-6504 thank you. |
kylec
New member
Username: kylec
Post Number: 1
Registered: 09-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, September 12, 2009 - 06:10 pm: |
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Hello all, I am restoring a Vivian gas engine, 5 hp single cylinder, much like the one Corey posted the picture of above.
Trying to figure out how much oil to put in it.
There is no dipstick or site gauge at all that I can see.
I have run the engine by setting the oil level just over the top of the con-rod bolts with the piston at BDC.
The result was oil spraying all over the place out of some galleries on the engine and around the back of the crankshaft towards the transmission.
We are suspecting that maybe the engine is only oiled from the external cups.
Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.
Below are two pictures of the engine in question.
Serial Number is 1095
Please post here or reply via email to kgcameron 'at' hotmail.com
Thanks in advance,
Kyle Cameron
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robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 293
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, September 12, 2009 - 07:52 pm: |
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Thanks for posting. You've got one of the earlier engines there. I assume the tag is "Vivian Gas Engine Works", rather than "Vivian Engine Works"?
You've got the earlier 2 bolt exhaust manifold. Later ones had four bolts. The engine dates to around 1927-29 as far as I can determine.
I have engines 1006 and 1151. The closest numbers to yours I have recorded.
Are there any markings stamped in the end of the gear lever on either side? The breather on the carb is not original as you probably know.
Your restoration looks very nice. I'm assuming this was a fresh water cooled engine?
The timing gears are lubricated by the oiler, but the main bearings are splash fed from the crankcase oil. You should be able to see the cast-in 'cups' in the top of the main bearing caps. The splash must fill these.
If your rear main bearing is very worn, there will be oil lost into the pan below the gear. The gears also had a reputation for leaking and spraying oil, which is why they were enclosed later. Some owners would fabricate a sheet metal guard to catch the splash.
You rearmost bearing has been converted a grease cup which was frequently done by owners.
The pipe on top of the head is the water discharge if sea water cooling is being used. How are you cooling the engine now?
Thanks for posting, great photos! |
ehkoli_1941_9_x_12
New member
Username: ehkoli_1941_9_x_12
Post Number: 1
Registered: 11-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 12:08 am: |
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hey all... thought I'd post a few pics of my spares, but first my new owner, Mitch... lots of crates    and vivian diesel parts      
many parts are new,some used and factory rebuilds
...reg |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 301
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 01:55 am: |
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Welcome Ehkoli! Tell those of us who haven't heard of her a bit about the boat and her history, would you? Someone did well out of Crown Assets there obviously! |
ehkoli_1941_9_x_12
New member
Username: ehkoli_1941_9_x_12
Post Number: 2
Registered: 11-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 02:47 am: |
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thanks for the welcome robert
wAs comissioned by the RCN in 1939 launched 1941 did hydrographic work for the navy and canadian hydrographic service
in 1944 worked with the usnavy looking up inlets for possible german uboat hiding sites
had a refit a nd docking in 1984 that was fit for a kings yacht and in 1993 was sold into private hands
the site ehkoli.org has more
those navy parts are really something and not only for the ehkoli but parts for the dundern sp
are in the collection ...those pics of crates are just a sample really,guick guess says fifty of those red pumps
next time he runs the engine plan is to video the operation , when he does I will get it posted
 
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andlar
Member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 6
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 03:21 pm: |
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Hi Robert and the new Ekholi, I am sorry to say that I have so litle time, but I am around. A pictures on the Canadian built T/B HERO from 1945 with a Vivian engien, located in the south west of
Sweden in the town called Halmstad.
Best regards,
Anders Larsson.  |
robert
Senior Member
Username: robert
Post Number: 302
Registered: 07-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 03:59 pm: |
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Thanks for those photos - what a treasure trove! I know where there is a NOS camshaft for a 6 cylinder Vivian if anyone ever needs one.
Andlar, great photos! Do you know the size of engine in the this tug, or anything about her history or owners? Now a pleasure craft I assume?
Thanks! |
andlar
Member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 7
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 04:50 pm: |
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It is the Great Vivian "9X12" six cylinder 240 hp engine,
the ship is mostly original and is registarted in Sweden 1947 Under the name HERO, today it is T/B HERO.
The ship is not used comercially but is still registrated as a tug in use.
Best regards,
Anders Larsson. |
andlar
Member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 8
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 04:55 pm: |
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The ship is built in Trenton, Ontario in Canada in 1945 for the US navy, and came to Sweden 1947.
I do not know what kind of operations she hade befor that.
Regards, Anders. |
andlar
Member
Username: andlar
Post Number: 9
Registered: 03-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, November 28, 2009 - 06:48 pm: |
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For thouse who is intrested of some more older pictures on tugboat HERO can log in to a Swedisch
websight:
www.tugboatlars.se/Tugboatlars.htm
and click: Bogserbåtar-Tugboats
after that click: I bokstavsordning
and scroll down to: Hero(2)(-av Falkenberg.av Hälle)
There you will when scrolling see original pictuere from 1947 and others.
Regards, Anders |
ehkoli_1941_9_x_12
New member
Username: ehkoli_1941_9_x_12
Post Number: 3
Registered: 11-2009
| | Posted on Tuesday, December 01, 2009 - 06:17 pm: |
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he all...just stopped in to leave a link to the new web page http://www.ehkoli.com/parts.html
..reg |
