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Sturmey Archer CS gearbox 3 speed counter shaft 1913-1930
This transmission dated 1921.
Used on many vintage, motorcycles including Norton & Triumph Model H.
Most of the design elements of the Sturmey Archer CS gearbox remained the same over the many years that it was produced. However, the basic changes included:
- An update to the cover around 1916
- A change to the clutch / drive-side of the main shaft. Earlier ones had a tapered fit with a keyway. Later ones (probably around 1927 when there was a change to gear pitch) had a splined shaft fitment.
- As mentioned, the gear pitch was altered. Probably to be able to take more power from models such as the Norton CS1 or International. This change was made in 1927.
The number on the case is on the 50000 – 70000 range. So, this Sturmey Archer CS gearbox is from 1921. It doesn’t matter much if you have a 1919 Triumph Model H or a 1925 Norton, the gearboxes were basically the same.
This gearbox has matching numbers. The outer cover is stamped on the inside, with the same number on the outside of the main case. They have been together since they were made in 1921. Some of these CS gearboxes have different stamps on the outer covers as they got damaged and were replaced.
It comes with the clutch worm as shown in the images.
This gearbox has a tapered fit for the clutch.
If you would like to see more information on how to date a Sturmey Archer gearbox, go to my page on dating information and numbers.
Condition of the Sturmey Archer CS gearbox
The gearbox has been passed to me as a reconditioned one. However, I always prefer to just state that the gearbox is in good overall condition and that there are no visible chips to the teeth, there are no welds to the inner or outer cases and that it turns freely without any nasty sounds.
If you look at the inner images, you will see that the bearings appear to have been replaced. It’s all very clean and with a light coating of oil.
Look on the outside where the mainshaft bearing is located and you will see three small screws. I presume this was someone’s method of holding the bearing in position.
There is a hairline crack on the underside. I have shown it on the images. However, it really is a hairline crack. If you look closely at the inside of the main case, there is no evidence of it.
The threads for the drive sprocket are fine. But the sprocket has seen better days. Some of the teeth are chipped. You could probably use it as it is, but it’s better replaced.
The thread for the clutch looks OK and the keyway is fine.
Please take a good look at the images provided. I have done my best to represent the condition. If you prefer to come and view it before buying, you are welcome. I will remove the outer cover and you can inspect it.
If you have a vintage Norton, Triumph or one of the many other motorcycles that used a Sturmey Archer CS gearbox, it’s probably a good idea to hold a spare on the shelf.
Other Sturmey Archer transmissions.
At the moment, I happen to have a Norton upright gearbox that has been dis-assembled. I also have most of a Norton Dolls Head gearbox. Both of these are Sturmey Archer boxes. Norton purchased the design and manufacturing rights from Sturmey Archer. You will need to look for these boxes in the Norton section, or just go to gearboxes for sale.
I have a few Sturmey Archer gearboxes. They tend to sell very quickly. If you don’t see what you need, let me know.
Buyer notes
Shipping is charged ON TOP of the price for the item. There are too many variables to include shipping in the checkout, so please contact me before you buy and I will give you a shipping price.
1921 Sturmey Archer CS gearbox 3 speed counter shaft
I usually ship to most destinations.
International shipping available. Let me know where you are and I will send you a price for shipping with tracking
Combined shipping available.
Viewing: Please come and check it over before you buy. It is at PE28, near St Ives in Cambridgeshire.
Collection: If you don’t want it shipped, I have plenty of space. If you can’t collect for a while, it’s not a problem. However, I will need to be paid very soon after the sale. Thanks.
Payment: Good old fashioned money on collection is preferred. I can accept payment through PayPal or by bank transfer as well. I can accept EUROS. Please ask.
Import Taxes: Please note that IMPORT DUTIES are not something I can control. If you are buying from outside the UK, there is a chance that you will have to pay import taxes. Import taxes vary from country to country. If there are charges to pay, it is the buyer’s responsibility to research the cost and pay the duties. The price that you see on my advert is for the item and not the item plus whatever taxes might be due.
If you aren’t a member yet, it might be worth joining the Vintage Motorcycle club.
