Back in lockdown and I've just been looking at the model range '36 to '39. I'm rather bewildered by the range of 350s during this period. Side valve and OHV are clear, but what about:
350 OHV deluxe M19
350 OHV empire star B24 or R5
350 OHV silver star B24
350 OHV silver star B24 2 port
350 B26 and B26 2 port
and there were sport models as well. Were there really so many models and can someone tell me in simple terms what were the differences?
Cheers
The 1937 M19 was made in low numbers - less than 200. Similar low numbers made for 1938.
The Catalogue description may assist.
Compare the description with the B26 from the same year, which was made in larger numbers.
And the 1937 Empire Star.
Many thanks.
Ok, I'm now starting to get my head round this. Hand change and foot change gears, varying gear ratios, High and low level exhausts, how could they manage all this and to what end? I suspect that developments were coming thick and fast, and models were being superseded even before they'd really got into production. Hence the numbers.
Very interesting to see the extras; pillion seat and speedo!
Can you explain the difference between single and twin port engines?
Val Page is to blame! New range of single cylinder engines designed by him and produced 37 to 39 which replaced all the previous single cylinder models.
M denotes heavyweight design of engines in capacities from 350 to 600cc (M19,20,21,22,23,24)
B denotes lightweight design of engines, 250 and 350cc (B20,21,22,23,24,25,26)
In each range the model numbers differentiate things like sv and ohv in each capacity and model spec (plodder, sports or competition). Then thinks like hand or foot change, single or twin port were alternative options.
The R5 you mention is residual production from the 36 model range.
Brilliant designer Val Page, arguably the best and taught Edward Turner everything he knew!
Many thanks again. The 30's were an exciting time in terms of motorvehicle development.
Its good to learn, even when you're getting on a bit. The trouble is I now want one. So if anyone is looking for a new home for a 350/500cc OHV from the 30's, please bear me in mind.