'Other' Constructional and Allied Systems Info & Downloads
Database of Metal Constructions Systems
Alongside his Other Systems Newsletter (OSN) Tony Knowles has produced a database of all known Metal Constructional Systems and their most important parameters. By his kind permission, his database is now also available on this website. You can search this database using a number of different parameters as shown below. Note that more than one parameter can be selected at the same time.
Note that the bug which prevented results being displayed when a date range was selected has now been fixed.
Select Type of System
Select Country
Select a Date Range
Select Materials
Shows all orders/combinations of materials.
N.B. Where there are several materials these are in order of importance
Select N&B Thread Size
Shows each thread size separately and also at the bottom it shows available combinations for searching
Select Boss type
Select Boss Thread
Shows all Boss threads in the database.
Select Gear Diametrical Pitch
Select Hole Pitch
Select Strip Hole Size
Select Axle Rod Diameter
1314 Systems Found - will be displayed up to 40 systems per page.
[100] [ART] [BAY] [BOY] [CAM] [CON] [COS] [DER] [EIF] [ERE] [FAL] [GIO] [IDÃ] [JOL] [KOM] [KON] [LE ] [MAK] [MEC] [MEC] [MET] [MET] [MIN] [MUS] [NEV] [PIO] [QUI] [SEL] [STA] [TAK] [TEK] [TRI] [WAL]
SYSTEM NAME : SEL'KHOZTEKHNIKA
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Russia
Russia
Dates
1970s to 1980s
1970s to 1980s
Material
Metal
Metal
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
push fit (probably)
push fit (probably)
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
38
38
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
10.0
10.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.3
4.3
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0
4.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Parts include range of unusual size Flanged Plates, large & small Tractor Tyres & Hubs, Clockwork Motor.
SYSTEM NAME : SERVO KITS
Maker
System Type
Not enough data to classify
Not enough data to classify
Country
United Kingdom (some significant doubt)
United Kingdom (some significant doubt)
Dates
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Name only.
SYSTEM NAME : SEYMOUR AIRPLANE FACTORY
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Aerospace
Aerospace
Country
USA
USA
Dates
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Photo shows METALCRAFT 810 models, & instructions for same, headed Seymour Airplane Factory. Also a promo set for Voigt with 900 series parts.
SYSTEM NAME : SICO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
Keim & Co.
Keim & Co.
System Type
Non-Meccano type (some significant doubt)
Non-Meccano type (some significant doubt)
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1932
1932
Material
Metal / Wood
Metal / Wood
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Coloured wooden Blocks held in metal Frames. Same maker as KEIM.
SYSTEM NAME : SIEMENS
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Electrical/science
Electrical/science
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1933
1933
Material
Steel / Wood
Steel / Wood
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
78 (approximately)
78 (approximately)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
50.0 (see comment *1)
50.0 (see comment *1)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Electrical parts to make Bell, Motor, etc, mounted on wooden Base Board. *1 Not sure what part(s) this applies to.
SYSTEM NAME : SIMPLEX [1]
Maker
System Type
BAUFIX type (some significant doubt)
BAUFIX type (some significant doubt)
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1934
1934
Material
Steel (probably)
Steel (probably)
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
A cheap set made by same firm as BAUFIX and possibly similar.
SYSTEM NAME : SIMPLEX [2]
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
Austria
Austria
Dates
1948
1948
Material
Wood / Metal
Wood / Metal
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
80
80
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Metal
Metal
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Wooden parts with crenellated edges assembled with metal fittings & N&B. The only set known is a No.1: its lid has just the name, BAUKASTEN Nr.1, & a logo (3 arms in a triangle).
SYSTEM NAME : SIMPLEX [3]
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
circa 1915
circa 1915
Material
Steel (probably)
Steel (probably)
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- --
-- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
Data from a small Ebay set. It has tubular Rods which push into & through Hubs with 1 ,2, 3, & 4-hole arms. Looks somewhat like SIMPLICO but different Hubs. Lid has a 2-Wheel Cart & a short Line Shaft
SYSTEM NAME : SIMPLICO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Dates
known in 1914
known in 1914
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Dec 1913 patent has split Rods pushing onto Pins screwed into Hubs (or into hollow Pins). Probably earlier version of TECHNICO. Ad in G&T 10/14 but not thereafter. See also TECHNIKUS [1].
SYSTEM NAME : SIMPLIFIED MECHANICS
Maker
Meccano
Meccano
System Type
MECCANO
MECCANO
Country
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Dates
circa 1907
circa 1907
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
5/32W
5/32W
Boss Type
key fixing
key fixing
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
38
38
No. of Parts in System
37
37
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7
12.7
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: square
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
MME under another name, so Strips have square ends & turned over edges, and Wheels held with special Clips.
SYSTEM NAME : SKIPPER TOY
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
USA
USA
Dates
known in 1938
known in 1938
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
8-32
8-32
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
20
20
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7 (see comment *1)
12.7 (see comment *1)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.3
4.3
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
---
---
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: round (slotted)
Nuts: square
Bolts: round (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Parts probably as MODERN-MORECRAFT [b] despite date, but clarification needed. *1 12.7x, also 1/3" & others.
SYSTEM NAME : SKY-SCRAPER
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Country
USA
USA
Dates
after World War Two (some significant doubt)
after World War Two (some significant doubt)
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
6-32
6-32
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
20
20
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7
12.7
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.5
3.5
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: round (slotted)
(see comment *1)
Nuts: square
Bolts: round (slotted)
(see comment *1)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Steel finish
Steel with a Steel finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
8.0
8.0
Bolt diameter (mm)
6.1
6.1
Comments
3/8" wide Strips, rubber Wheels, & 5 Plates including 2 flanged & 2 with 2 holes deep flanges. *1 Also hex, same Across flats.
SYSTEM NAME : SMART ENGINEER, The
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
USA
USA
Dates
after World War One (some significant doubt)
after World War One (some significant doubt)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
31
31
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
10.3
10.3
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
2.9
2.9
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
WALTHER'S INGEMIEUR, known from a No.8 set.
SYSTEM NAME : SNAPSTICKS
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Dates
known in 1948
known in 1948
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
6
6
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
---
---
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
---
---
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
10.1
10.1
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
9.5 (approximately)
9.5 (approximately)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- --
-- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
A small set was advertised, probably with KLIPTIKO parts. Relevant data from KLIPTIKO.
SYSTEM NAME : SOLID
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
15
15
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
15.0
15.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.0
4.0
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: tapered cheese (slotted)
Nuts: square
Bolts: tapered cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Black metallic finish
Steel with a Black metallic finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7
7
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Blackened parts with 10mm wide Strips. Details from smallest (Knirps) set - 3x5h Flanged Plate, Strips, Brackets, Wheel Disc, Pulley Disc. 2 larger sets, Kadett & Primus, but no details.
SYSTEM NAME : SOLIDO [1]
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type (some significant doubt)
Non-Meccano type (some significant doubt)
Country
France (probably)
France (probably)
Dates
Material
Steel (probably)
Steel (probably)
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Lid label shows boy with various small Car & Military Vehicles. Parts, which may not be original, are dull grey Strips with rectangular slotted holes (except round at ends) & wire 'Ladders'.
SYSTEM NAME : SOLIDO [2]
Maker
System Type
Aerospace
Aerospace
Country
France
France
Dates
1935 to 1958
1935 to 1958
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
3x.60
3x.60
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Lid seen has label with name in same form as SDO1. Parts to make various (probably smallish) Aircraft models. SOLIDO produced other series of sets including Cars, Military during 1932-58..
SYSTEM NAME : SONNEBERGER
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Former East Germany
Former East Germany
Dates
1948 to known in 1971
1948 to known in 1971
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
M3
M3
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
17 (see comment *1)
17 (see comment *1)
No. of Parts in System
64 (see comment *2)
64 (see comment *2)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
10.0
10.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2 (see comment *3)
4.2 (see comment *3)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.1
4.1
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0
4.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: fillister (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: fillister (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Steel finish
(see comment *4)
Steel with a Steel finish
(see comment *4)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7.0(see comment *5)
7.0(see comment *5)
Bolt diameter (mm)
8.0(see comment *6)
8.0(see comment *6)
Comments
Also in MCS as VEB INJECTA, the maker from '56. Parts include 18 holes Strip, Double Strip, Angle Girder. *1 Mod 1.5. *2 including 15 in Gears set. *3 & 5.4. *4 Nut brown metallic steel. Later Pionier sets with coloured anodised parts & *5*6*7 Nickel plated steel 6.9 6.9.
SYSTEM NAME : SPEDICON
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Dates
1945 to 1947 (see comment *1)
1945 to 1947 (see comment *1)
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
4BA
4BA
Boss Type
tapped (see comment *2)
tapped (see comment *2)
Boss Thread
4BA (see comment *3)
4BA (see comment *3)
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
32
32
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Variable
Variable
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.0
4.0
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
6.6
6.6
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
6.4
6.4
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: cheese
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *4)
Nuts: cheese
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
(see comment *4)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Aluminium (Alloy) with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
Aluminium (Alloy) with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
8.1
8.1
Bolt diameter (mm)
8.1
8.1
Comments
Plates bolt to tapped Cubes, & ¼" diameter Rods, with tapped ends & cross-taps, as extra members & axles. *1 Patent application/acceptance dates. *2*3 Multi-tapped from Pulley vee. *4 Both serrated.
SYSTEM NAME : SPIROU CONSTRUIT
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
Temsi
Temsi
System Type
Very like Meccano
Very like Meccano
Country
Belgium
Belgium
Dates
late 1950s (some significant doubt) to 1970s
late 1950s (some significant doubt) to 1970s
Material
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
38
38
No. of Parts in System
84
84
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.7 (see comment *1)
12.7 (see comment *1)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2
4.2
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Also ROBBEDOES AAN Denmark BOUW, bilingual names. The illustrated parts are as those of TEMSI & BOITES Denmark CONSTRUCTION METALLIQUE/METALEN CONSTRUCTIE. *1 May be 12.73 in 25 holes Strip & other parts.
SYSTEM NAME : SPLINTOFIX
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Country
Former East Germany
Former East Germany
Dates
1948 (see comment *1)
1948 (see comment *1)
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
3.5x.6 (see comment *2)
3.5x.6 (see comment *2)
Boss Type
tapped
tapped
Boss Thread
---
---
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
18 (approximately)
18 (approximately)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
18.0
18.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.6 (see comment *3)
3.6 (see comment *3)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
---
---
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
---
---
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: --
Nuts: square
Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Aluminium (Alloy) with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
Aluminium (Alloy) with a Aluminium (Alloy) finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
8.1
8.1
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
Simple system; main parts are square-ended Strips, Wheel Disc, lozenge-shaped Plate, & Corner Bracket held by a Wedge thru flat Clip. *1 Print Ref. *2 Probably not M3.5. *3 3.5 in other parts.
SYSTEM NAME : SPRANGER
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
circa 1933 (see comment *1) to circa 1955 (see comment *2)
circa 1933 (see comment *1) to circa 1955 (see comment *2)
Material
Steel / Wood
Steel / Wood
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
40 (see comment *3)
40 (see comment *3)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.0
12.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.9
3.9
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Wood & nickel or tin plated metal parts. The wooden Pulleys have brass plated steel bosses. *1*2 Saiid to possibly be for the maker, not the system, but patent & manual copyright 1929. *3 Including 16 wooden.
SYSTEM NAME : SPRIO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
Former East Germany
Former East Germany
Dates
known in 1959 to known in 1962
known in 1959 to known in 1962
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Maker: VEB Sprio-Werke, Holzhausen. Only one set known with dedicated parts for a Turm-Drehkran (Tower Crane), including Braced Panels. Some sets have silvery parts, some in a mix of colours.
SYSTEM NAME : S S S
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
as TRIX (inc MCX)
as TRIX (inc MCX)
Country
Netherlands
Netherlands
Dates
1950s
1950s
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
3x
3x
Boss Type
double-tapped
double-tapped
Boss Thread
3x
3x
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
---
---
No. of Parts in System
25
25
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
8.0
8.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.6
3.6
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
3.0
3.0
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: square
Bolts: round (slotted)
Nuts: square
Bolts: round (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Steel finish
(see comment *1)
Steel with a Steel finish
(see comment *1)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
5.0
5.0
Bolt diameter (mm)
5
5
Comments
S S S stands for Sterk, Stabiel, Solide. Some TRIX-like parts but original Angle Girder with 1 row of holes in each flange, Flanged Plate, Bonnet, Axle, Crank Handle, Pulley, double-sided Hook. *1 Nut is plain brass.
SYSTEM NAME : STAAL-BOUW
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Netherlands
Netherlands
Dates
1950s
1950s
Material
Steel (see comment *1)
Steel (see comment *1)
Thread
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
14
14
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
(see comment *2)
(see comment *2)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Data from web photos of one small set with no indication of others. Lid mainly black with slogan & boy making Bridge. *1 Presumably but the parts look aluminium. *2 Less than 12.7mm.
SYSTEM NAME : STABA [1]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Former East Germany
Former East Germany
Dates
1948 to known in 1966
1948 to known in 1966
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M3
M3
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
M3
M3
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
34 (see comment *1)
34 (see comment *1)
No. of Parts in System
60 (see comment *2)
60 (see comment *2)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.0
12.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.1
3.1
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
3.1
3.1
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
3.0 (mean) (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
3.0 (mean) (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: tapered cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: tapered cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
(see comment *3)
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
(see comment *3)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
5.5
5.5
Bolt diameter (mm)
5.4
5.4
Comments
3-20h Strips, often used curved; Gears with & without boss, & Worm (wire in manual but solid in late sets). Maker: Ehrlich; Horseljau; Teuteberg. *1 Mod.75. *2 approx, +20 for Telefon sets. *3 Late may be bright zinc plated steel.
SYSTEM NAME : STABA [2]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type
Non-Meccano type
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1949 to 1954
1949 to 1954
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
single-tapped
single-tapped
Boss Thread
M4
M4
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
(see comment *1)
(see comment *1)
No. of Parts in System
81
81
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Variable (see comment *2)
Variable (see comment *2)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.1 (see comment *3)
4.1 (see comment *3)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.1
4.1
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
4.0 (see comment *4)
4.0 (see comment *4)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
(see comment *5)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: round (slotted)
(see comment *5)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
Steel with a Nickel plated finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7.1
7.1
Bolt diameter (mm)
6.8(see comment *6)
6.8(see comment *6)
Comments
Strips are outline of wire, so slotted full length,& lids have one with STABA superimposed on it. *1 Bevel only. *2 Probably 15mm in Flanged Plate. *3 Typical, up to 4.3. *4 M4 threaded ends. *5*6 Also Bolts Diameter, 8.1; slotted cheesehead, 7.0.
SYSTEM NAME : STABIL
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
Walther
Walther
System Type
STABIL type
STABIL type
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1911 (see comment *1) to 1972
1911 (see comment *1) to 1972
Material
Steel / Wood
Steel / Wood
Thread
5/32W
5/32W
Boss Type
Boss Thread
5/32W
5/32W
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
14 (see comment *2)
14 (see comment *2)
No. of Parts in System
204 (see comment *3)
204 (see comment *3)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.5
12.5
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2 (mean)
4.2 (mean)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
4.1 (see comment *4)
4.1 (see comment *4)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
3.8 (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
3.8 (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Brass finish
Steel with a Brass finish
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7.5
7.5
Bolt diameter (mm)
6.2
6.2
Comments
A few wooden parts. *1 Or possibly 1910. *2 Mod 1.8. Also normal gears, DP 42 (Mod .6). Early on the large teeth 'outline', later Bakelite. *3 Including 50 special parts. *4 Many 3.95-4.00.
SYSTEM NAME : STABIL-ELECTRIC
Maker
System Type
Electrical/science
Electrical/science
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1933
1933
Material
Steel / Plastic
Steel / Plastic
Thread
5/32W
5/32W
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.5
12.5
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.0
4.0
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
2 sets advertised in 1933 but probably never on sale. If they were, probably as ELECTRIC sets 1 & 2.
SYSTEM NAME : STABILA
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
Walther
Walther
System Type
STABIL type
STABIL type
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1933 to World War Two
1933 to World War Two
Material
Steel (see comment *1)
Steel (see comment *1)
Thread
5/32W
5/32W
Boss Type
no boss
no boss
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
43
43
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
12.5
12.5
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2 (see comment *2)
4.2 (see comment *2)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Metal frameworks, including STABIL & some special parts, woven with wool. *1 And Wool. *2 Plus some small holes.
SYSTEM NAME : STABILO
Maker
System Type
Not enough data to classify
Not enough data to classify
Country
Dates
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Name only.
SYSTEM NAME : STABILUS
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Hole pitch <12.7mm
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
known in 2003 to in production in 2010 and continuing
known in 2003 to in production in 2010 and continuing
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
10 (approximately)
10 (approximately)
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
10.0
10.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.1
4.1
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
10 small sets to make simplicity models including a Xmas Tree (compare with BRAL model) from Eitech looking (but not compatible) parts.
SYSTEM NAME : STABO
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
circa 1970 (some significant doubt)
circa 1970 (some significant doubt)
Material
Aluminium (Alloy) / Plastic
Aluminium (Alloy) / Plastic
Thread
----
----
Boss Type
not tapped
not tapped
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
16
16
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
---
---
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
---
---
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
5.0 (see comment *1)
5.0 (see comment *1)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: --
Bolts: --Bolts: --
Nuts: --
Bolts: --Bolts: --
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
-- -- --
-- -- --
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
---
---
Bolt diameter (mm)
---
---
Comments
5mm Tubes push into plastic Connectors, some with flexible necked sockets to allow Tubes to be angled..2 plastic Pulleys, with rubber Tyre for one..
SYSTEM NAME : STAFA
Maker
System Type
Non-Meccano type (some significant doubt)
Non-Meccano type (some significant doubt)
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
late 1940s
late 1940s
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
May have preceded STABA [2], see Baukästen p264.
SYSTEM NAME : STAHL(O)-KLEMM
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Mainly Rods/Tubes
Country
Austria
Austria
Dates
known in 1968 to 1969 (see comment *1)
known in 1968 to 1969 (see comment *1)
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
M4
M4
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
28
28
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
4.2
4.2
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: hexagonal (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: hexagonal (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
7
7
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
8mm Rods & flat Strips joined with Clamps. STAHLO-KLEMM after 1968. *1 Said to be 1960s to early 1970s.
SYSTEM NAME : STAHL-BAUKASTEN [1]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Country
Former East Germany
Former East Germany
Dates
Material
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Set made by a Crane company. Lid not seen; manual cover has 2 boys building a Gantry Crane with conventional parts, & manual at drawing board in background.
SYSTEM NAME : STAHL-BAUKASTEN [2]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
after World War Two
after World War Two
Material
Aluminium (Alloy)
Aluminium (Alloy)
Thread
M3
M3
Boss Type
not tapped
not tapped
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
22
22
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
10.0
10.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.3
3.3
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
--- (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Simple system with Crane, Pylon & Tower on blue lid. Main parts are Strips, a 10 holes Angle Girder, & a 6x10h Flanged Plate.
SYSTEM NAME : STAHL-BAUKASTEN [3]
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
MÄRKLIN type
MÄRKLIN type
Country
Former East Germany
Former East Germany
Dates
Material
Steel (probably)
Steel (probably)
Thread
Boss Type
tapped
tapped
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Nuts: hexagonal
Bolts: cheese (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel with a Bright plated finish
(probably)
Steel with a Bright plated finish
(probably)
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
The 3 sets seen have a green, blue, or yellow box, all with plain label with just name on it. Parts look like MÄRKLIN with larger Wheels black, but smaller bright. parts including Strips, Angle Girder, 2 Flanged Plates, Flanged Disc Pulley(s), 2 Gear Rings.
SYSTEM NAME : STAHL-BAUMEISTER
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Hole pitch >12.7mm
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
circa 1950
circa 1950
Material
Steel
Steel
Thread
Boss Type
not tapped
not tapped
Boss Thread
----
----
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
--
--
No. of Parts in System
20
20
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
20.0
20.0
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
3.1 (see comment *1)
3.1 (see comment *1)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
3.0 (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
3.0 (Screwed Rods or Bolts are used as axles.)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts: cheese
Bolts: hexagonal (slotted)
Nuts: cheese
Bolts: hexagonal (slotted)
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Steel
Steel
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
Probably only one set. Greyish treated parts: Strips, Double Angle Strip, Brackets, Pulley Disc. *1 Elongated holes 3.1x7.3mm.
SYSTEM NAME : STAHLBAUKASTEN
Manuals/Photos and/or an MCS document for this system are available here
Maker
System Type
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Meccano principle but sig. differences
Country
Germany
Germany
Dates
1948
1948
Material
Steel / Plastic
Steel / Plastic
Thread
Boss Type
Boss Thread
Diametrical Pitch of Gears
No. of Parts in System
Hole Pitch (Spacing) (mm)
Diameter of holes in Strips(mm)
Diameter of the Bore in Bosses(mm)
Diameter of Axle Rods(mm)
Types of Nuts and Bolts
Nuts:
Bolts:
Nuts:
Bolts:
Material/Finish of Nuts and Bolts
Size of the Nuts across Flats (mm)
`
`
Bolt diameter (mm)
Comments
From Ebay. Lid has Bridge with 2 arches supporting cross-braced box girder. Black Strips, Brackets, probably for Bridge on lid. But also red Wheels in the box.