OC uni-system.

Got a steak hoagie and beer riding on this, what came first, Minneapolis Moline uni system or the New Idea uni-system. I can't find my book with the info. I said its a MM that went to NI later. John says the other way. Who gets the free hoagie and beer?

My memory says MM came first, then new idea bought MM if I remember correctly.

Yes, New Idea bought the unisystem form Moline in maybe 1965. I was hired at New Idea in August 1965 and the Uni is why they were hiring. Rode that train until it stopped when Avco sold New Idea to Allied. I worked one day for Allied, the day I was recalled from layoff, visited with a few friends that were still there and froze my retirement. Allied had stripped all benefits and cut wages big time. My hourly rate went from $11.43 to $6.00. No thanks.

Calvin--I'm pretty sure the 708 had Perkins engine. The 709 and 803A and maybe a few other models had the AC 426 engine. Either way they both were good engines.

GARY(OH/IN) wrote: Yes, New Idea bought the unisystem form Moline in maybe 1965. I was hired at New Idea in August 1965 and the Uni is why they were hiring. Rode that train until it stopped when Avco sold New Idea to Allied. I worked one day for Allied, the day I was recalled from layoff, visited with a few friends that were still there and froze my retirement. Allied had stripped all benefits and cut wages big time. My hourly rate went from $11.43 to $6.00. No thanks.

Here is a weblink that gives detail about Allied. It's an interesting read. They acquired New Idea in mid 1980s. Gary, you made the right choice.
http://www.company-histories.com/Allied-Products-Corporation-Company-History.html

The Moline units are their own engines. My 800 is a Perkins diesel. The 709 has the Allis Chalmers engine in it.