Dear Mr King,
If your long term aim is to get out of private business, then that as such would be wise.
You seem devoid of knowledge of the basics or the reponsibilities of running a private business. Certainly your communication skills (viz-aviz your partner) are the pits.
I've heard of the papreless office - but the paperless business, never!
No you cannot sell the machinery without your partner's permission!
The business trades on goodwill - from whom and for what?
What does your business bank manager say about your plan - oh don't tell me, you haven't discussed it with him!
You do not mention compensation to your partner regarding buying him out - businesses don't come free nor run themselves.
As the business does not need the machinery, why did you buy it and what are the future business plans, if any?
I just hope you are not trading while insolvent - i.e. have creditors whom the business cannot pay.
Good luck in all honest and fair dealing - you need it.
SIQ.