This invention relates to an automatic self-propelled machine for stripping oil from bowling lanes which is characterized by a solvent applicator made of absorbant material that applies the oil-dissolving solvent to the lane surface, means for moving the applicator into engagement with the lane surface at predetermined points in the excursion of the stripper, a cam-actuated solvent supply system automatically operative to wet the applicator during a portion of its forward travel toward the pin deck and return trip to the foul line, a rotating residue pick-up roller for continuously picking up the liquid and solid residues from the surface of the lane during both forward and return excursions of the stripper, and a moving curtain wiper mechanism positioned between the applicator and residue pick-up roller in contact with the absorbant surface of the latter and preferably also with the lane surface effective during both the forward and return runs to remove the residues from the pick-up drum as it dries the lane. The invention also relates to a novel arrangement of drive rollers, support rollers and casters cooperating with one another and with the various mechanisms for applying the solvent and removing same that both guide the unit and insure treatment of the lane all the way from the foul line to the pin deck. In addition, the invention encompasses a control system including lane position sensing mechanisms which govern the movements of the stripper as well as its operating cycle.
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