The 1911 GE Kidney fan was GE's second attempt at an oscillating fan. Due to its use of pot-metal (cast zinc), this fan was likely much less expensive to manufacture than GE's first oscillator. Unfortunately the use of this material combined with design decisions made this fan a very poor long-term survivor. Nearly any Kidney fan that is available today is either lacking the kidney gearbox or the gearbox is in very poor condition.

Despite its materials, a properly restored Kidney fan is a true pleasure to own. The six-blade variant shown here is quiet, reliable, and very simple to use. Simply switch the lever from "OUT" to "IN" and the oscillation action begins. Tilt is adjusted by pulling the spring loaded plunger arm on the right side of the fan and moving the fan to your desired position.  

This particular fan was not an easy restoration and rarely is. It required a full motor re-wind as well as a gearbox rebuild. The results, however, are well worth the effort. This fan will last another 100 years easily.