Photo Index - Palmer D. Weeks (Barton) - Universal Four Head Planer

Machinery Photo Index

Manufactured/Badged by:
Palmer D. Weeks (Barton)
Portland, OR

Machine Specifications
Machine Class:	Wood Working Machinery
Machine Type:	Planer, Wood
Machine Size:	13" x 2"
Submitted By:	Reuben Deumling

Machine Specifications
Description/Model:	Universal Four Head Planer
Date of Manufacturer:	early 1950s
Serial Number:
Last Updated	6/6/2012 12:10:04 AM

Comments:

This is the first and so far only known surviving example of a Barton Universal four head planer. It belongs to Johnny Prevot. It was marketed as being capable of "finishing 2x4's and 2x6's on all four sides in one operation. Recommended for small mills and lumber yards desiring to plane rough lumber. Maximum width 13"---Thickness 2" with 1/8" cut." The product literature I've found for this machine shows the motor mounted on a separate stand and one serpentine belt powering all four heads. According to Johnny this arrangement is not the last word either.
The machine is based on the standard 13" planer but features a different table with integrated bottom cutter head and the ability to mount two side heads on the outfeed end. A 5hp motor was specified in the product literature.

Photo 1:

Comments: infeed and gears
Source: owner

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Photo 2:

Comments: belts and pulleys in non-standard configuration
Source: owner

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Photo 3:

Comments: outfeed end with two side heads
Source: owner

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Photo 4:

Comments: side heads and twisted belt drive
Source: owner

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Photo 5:

Comments: gears powering feed rollers
Source: owner

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Photo 6:

Comments: view showing bed with adjustable guides and infeed roller
Source: owner

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