Comparison of the “Before and After” Illustrations Shows Strikingly the Resemblance to a Motorcycle
The boy who cannot own a motorcycle but who has a bicycle, may remodel it to resemble a power-driven machine by fitting it up with equipment, much of which can be made in the home workshop. The illustration shows how an ordinary bicycle was improved by several practical fittings. The lower end of the mudguard of the rear wheel was extended to form a clip, for the homemade stand A. Brackets were made of strap iron to support the bundle carrier B, the basket of which was made of wood. The tank C, 3 by 3 by 21 in., with two compartments and doors, contains batteries and tools. It is fastened to the frame by means of two bolted straps. The bracket D was made of strap iron, to support the electric headlight E. The handlebars were extended, as shown at F, and the horn G was provided. The seat post was lengthened by welding a piece to it, and reversed, as at H. A tail light, J, and a pump, K, held by straps, were provided, and the front mudguard was fitted with a leather piece, L, shaped as shown in the front view.—P. P. Avery, Garfield, N. J.
Toy Submarine Made of Shade Roller
This Submarine’s “Engine” is Wound by Means of the Propeller
The submarine shown really goes, and was made of a bit of tin, some lead, a few brads, and an old window-shade roller, with a good spring. The spring is the submarine engine. Saw off the roller 3 in. beyond the inner end of the spring, and shape it like the bow of a submarine. Flatten a piece of lead, and fasten it to the bottom of the boat for a keel. Experiment until the keel is of the right weight, and in the proper place, permitting the boat to move evenly, just below the surface of the water. For the propeller, cut a 2-in. tin disk as shown, and bend the blades into shape. In the center make a hole to admit the end of the spring, to which it is then soldered. Wind up the “engine” by turning the propeller. The shade-roller spring can also be used for other toy craft.—E. P. Sullivan, Arlington, Massachusetts.
¶Rub powdered graphite on rubber and asbestos gaskets so that they may be removed easily when desired.
Simple Machine for Transmitting Writing
A Message Written on the Pad with a Pencil is Transmitted to the Other Pad at a Considerable Distance Away