Some time ago I acquired an old Lincoln welder. It's probably nearly as old as I am. And I'm proud to say it's even in worse shape!
I don't have a vintage. But I'm a 49er and it's probably from the early 50s. It appears to have a 6 volt generator and starter as well as a magneto. The engine is a Continental F162.
My wife has just begun taking three courses at our local junior college: Math, Welding, and Engine Building.
While this welder cannot help her with her math it WILL serve as her class projects for both the welding and engine courses since the sheet metal and even some of the structural frame and trailer it's on, have some rust.
I don't have a clue how long it's been since the thing last ran. However, I've dumped some marvel mystery oil into it and have gotten the engine to loosen up enough to turn it over.
I am interested in receiving opinions about how to best proceed with the restoration. I have always preferred to know going into a project what components have given up the ghost and which ones may continue in service.
I believe this is important so as to be able to choose your battles wisely.
To that end, I'd like to get the thing started. Not only for the goose bump factor but also to satisfy myself that the dynamo ain't dead dead dead.
Since I don't have a 6 volt battery I'm wondering if I could just start it with a 12 volt battery and not hook up the generator?
Also, how do you go about testing a magneto? No self destructive testing, please. I get enough of that at my chiropractor's...
Once I determine the magneto and generator are ok I'll feel a lot better about hurling money at the engine, gas tank, radiator, and all the rest.
I would really like to talk about dis mit Ben Dare and Dunn Datt.
Thank you for your consideration.
Vernon