Baker Direct Stroke Connecting Rod ?

[billcobb]

I bought this hunk of cast steel at an estate auction for $5 thinking it was the connecting rod for a Baker Direct Stroke windmill motor. However, it has an offset crank pin location. My Baker Direct Stroke motor's connecting rod is a little smaller and straight (with no offset). Am I on the right track or is this from an old steam engine or basket weaving machine ? All ideas, including paperweight options are encouraged...

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[windybob]

Well, that's interesting....

[Wayne]

You mention steam engines could it have been the outside part of the eccentric that worked the steam valve?

[billcobb]

Yes, that's a possibility. But, an eccentric flange for a steam engine slide valve actuator is usually 2 pieces( bearing race is capped and the neck is a bolt on. too, so the valve timing and cutoff distance can be adjusted. Also, the steam parts never used a ball bearing race like what I see in this part. It compares very well to my Baker Heller-Aller Model 8 Direct Stroke part (including the ball bearing race) except for the offset. This thing is also quite a bit larger, so maybe for a giant Baker version ?

[windybob]

If you have the "black book" it will say what sizes it was made in. Also, if it's malleable cast it certainly could have been run over or damaged. I think they always called it "semi-steel". I have pipe wrenches made from that stuff with bent handles.....lol (darn cheaters)

[billcobb]

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Actually its a 'green book'. This is looking pretty close as far as I can tell. 8 footer con rod is strait, 10 footer has a dog leg offset.

[windybob]

Well, despite what it says, I'm not convinced of it's "superiority" over all competitors. lol

So I guess your part is identified? I have not seen that picture before.