The Log Loader No. 164 would take unloaded logs from one side raise them up by a chain mechanism and load them into a waiting car on the other side. Used with No. 3451 Operating Flat Car or similar, this accessory was a self-contained continuous operation. Available from 1946 until 1950, this loader came with a RED painted BLACK Bakelite roof and a premium is paid today for roofs with few paint chips.
This log loader came with its own controller and twelve logs. Five of these logs were available for separate sale and were housed in a No. 164-64 box. The No. 97C controller that is illustrated to the right was pre-wired into the loader. It is identical to the controller that is used on the No. 97 Coal Elevator. This controller has a knob to turn on the chain mechanism that would raise the logs and an "UNLOAD" button to unload them into a car. For night operation there are two L430 lamps (No. 27-3) located under the roof that light when the loader is operating.
This accessory was a pre-war carry over into the post war period. The post war productions are distinguished by two round half-inch diameter openings on the bottom where the log hooks turn 180 degrees. These openings were placed here undoubtedly to allow removal of debris that may impede the proper operation of the log chain lifts. There are no variations during the post war period.
Three different instruction sheets were issued during the post war period. All are numbered 164-65 and the first two issues were dated 1-46 and 11-46. These were printed with DARK BLUE ink on BLUE paper. The final issue dated 7-49 used BLACK ink on WHITE paper.
Produced in the modern era, this accessory is reputed to be less noisy than this original post-war version.
Dimensions: 10-3/4 inches long, 11-1/4 inches wide, and 9 inches high.
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