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This is an Elf Twin, Model 20, Series 3B engine manufactured by Dan Calkin in Portland Oregon. The displacement is 0.196 cubic inches. This Serial Number 821 is an early version of the Series 3B; it was shipped to Huffman's Model Shop in St. Joseph, Missouri on November 19, 1946. The provenance of this engine is well known as I purchased it new from Huffman's in early 1947; I have the original box and papers. In 1947, an engine of this sort was bought for one reason - to fly! And fly it I did, in several free flight models. Today this engine is a valuable collector's piece and although I would enjoy flying it again, I probably won't because of its value. The engine appears "as new" and it is tight with great compression. I was an Elf engine fan at that time and flew a slant-plug single in several home-made designs - I traded the single for a new Ohlsson 60 - not a very bright move based on today's prices! No, this twin isn't for sale, but other engines are offered for sale below.
McCOY 60 RED HEAD - 1947
The Dick McCoy designed engines, manufactured by Duro-Matic Products from 1945 to 1956, then taken over by Testors, were popular and competitive race engines of .607 cu. in. displacement used in race cars and speed control-line. The first engines, the "MCCR" and "MCCA", along with the aircraft "Super 60", came out in 1945. The "Red Head" follow-on appeared in 1946-47 and was distinguished by its red head and black anodized crankcase. The McCoy engines had serial numbers up through the "Series 20" engines of 1949 and then s/n's were dropped. The advertisement shown below for the engine type being offered here appeared in the November 1946 issue of Air Trails. Also shown is a cut-a-way of the "Red Head" that was in the same issue.
This engine has been refurbished and reanodized; the engine restorer remarked that the piston head is "pristine" and barely appears to have been run. This early example of the famous McCoy engines has serial number -4708. Note that the exhaust stack has been "shaved" which was commonly done to the engines used in speed U-control because of the tightly fitted cowlings used. Note that this 1947 version does not have the "60" marking below the vertical "McCOY". The McCoy "Series 20" ignition do not have the black case and were somewhat improved because of an enlarged sideport - the so called "White Case" have become popular flight engines for SAM competition (Society of Antique Modelers).
This very nice collector's engine, the "Black Case Red Head", manufactered from late 1946 to some point in 1948, is complete and in display or running condition. M.E.C.A. members may expect all standard conditions to apply. The price of this engine is $400.00.
Sadly, Damon L. "Dick" McCoy passed away on December 30, 2005 at the age of 98 1/2. He made unique contributions to model engines that are legendary.
A little McCoy history: The California-based company, Duro-Matic, was originally in the business of making welding torches but made war products during WWII. Follwing the war, Charley Miller joined Duro-Matic and their first product was the McCoy race car, without engine. The Hornet was the popular race car engine and Dick McCoy designed the McCoy 60 to use in the racer in competition with the Hornet - the first McCoy 60 was produced at a rate of 250 per day. The original red head/black case was modified with a larger bypass (Series 20) to keep up with the power of the Doolings which proved to be the race track favorite. Duro-Matic was the first engine maker to test run every engine that it made. Charley Miller, the general manager, lived in an apartment house with model greats Duke Fox, Lud Kading, Bill Atwood and Johnny Davis. Miller got a few of the new glow plugs from Ray Arden at the 1946 Wichita Nationals and found that the McCoys ran stronger on glow. It was at this time that he decided to build a .35 glow engine. Miller worked with Testor's to get Testor props which would fit the McCoy - a joint venture with Testor which resulted in several control-line planes, starting with the Freshman and up to the Senior. Duro-Matic production was reduced during the Korean War, eliminating the kits. By 1955, Miller sold his Duro-Matic firm to the Testor Corp., resulting in the popular and low-priced Testor's McCoy glow line of engines. Charley Miller became president of Testor' Corp. by 1963 with its wide-range of hobby products.
McCOY 29 RED HEAD - 1947
The McCoy 29 "Red Head" of .299 cu. in. displacement, designed by Dick McCoy and manufactured by Duro-Matic Products, was first marketed in 1947 as an ignition engine and was aimed at speed control-line and race cars. The advertisement below appeared in the August 1947 Air Trails.
The "Red Head 29" was a small version of the "Red Head 60"; it differed in that it had "29" below the name on the bypass. This ignition engine has been refurbished and has been reanodized. It is very tight, clean, complete and has good compression. Would make a good collector's item or a terrific runner. The engine has serial number 12664 on the lug. M.E.C.A. members can expect M.E.C.A. sale conditions. The price of this excellent condition BCRH speed engine is $240.00.
The Engine Collectors Journal, in the June 1985 issue, in a submission by Art Swift, mentions that the moving point design for the McCoy 29 was done by Art in 1945 while he worked for Austincraft - the design was to be used on the Atwood Super Champion. Later in 1946, Duro-Matic elected to buy this moving point design from Austincraft for use on the McCoy 29.
VIVELL MOTORS 35 ENGINES
The Vivell line of model engines was sold by Earl Vivell of San Francisco and were produced by Jim Brown (in Oakland, I believe) . The first model Vivell engine, the .347 cubic-inch, was a revision to the 1941 Comet 35; coming out in 1944, this early model was soon replaced by the 1945 Vivell "35" which is offered here and pictured above on the Vivell brochure cover. This complete brochure, with specs and spare parts list, can be viewed as a PDF file by clicking Here. This leaflet came from the personal file of Earl Vivell.
This late production "2nd model" from 1945 features a baffled piston and a cast timer housing. The cylinder is oven brazed and was originally finished with a baked varnish which flakes off easily when run. This spark ignition engine is very clean and has the original "hang tank." This engine has had a professional rework with the cast iron piston (two oil grooves) being chrome plated and lapped to a honed cylinder. The V-2 spark plug is new. I have recently run this ignition engine on the bench using gas and oil and it is a strong runner. The "35" polished head has a concave bottom. There is an additional hole in the intake and I have no idea what it was used for. This engine is ready for flight duty, or if intended for display and collection purpose only, the cylinder can be resprayed black for appearance to fix than grungy look. The name, "VIVELL 35," is on the bypass and is pictured below. These engines did not have serial numbers.
A good running example of the early Vivell line of engines, this 1945, 2nd Model "35" is available for $175.00, including plug.
3rd MODEL VIVELL "35"
Using standard reference guides of Anderson's Blue Book, Mike Clanford's A Pictorial A to Z...., and Tim Dannels' American Model Engine Encylopedia, there seems to be some disagreement as to what constitutes the 3rd, 4th and 5th models of the "35" through 1946 and which earns the title of "Super 35". The engine shown below, and offered for sale, falls into the 3rd model category with some variations. The main identifying features of this engine are the enlarged bypass and a large rectangular exhaust. The case is the newer version with no knockout mark on the small web under the shaft, same as used on the "Super 35", but this engine also used a "hang tank" - the crankcase cover on the back does not have the groove and tapped hole for the streamlined tank. I believe the streamlined, back cover mounted tank is the defining modification for the "Super 35" version (I have one for comparison). Another anomaly is the angular cut of the venturi - a crankcase that appeared on the late model "Super 35", or 5th model. One reference also makes note of an additional fin not found on this engine. This engine has been professionally restored - the piston (2 oil grooves) has been chromed and lapped and the cylinder honed - and has been test run. The engine does not come with the "hang tank". One interesting feature: the enlarged exhaust port was cut about .083 inches lower than the 2nd model but the connecting rod and piston are the same - as a result, at top dead center, the piston bottom opens the exhaust port to the crankcase, offering sub-induction.
This engine would make a good flyer or the cylinder could be painted for a collection display. The engine is equipped with a new sparkplug. The price of this Vivell "35" 3rd Model is $105.00.
O&R COMPACT III INDUSTRIAL ENGINE FOR BOATS
This is a rare version of the O&R Compact. industrial engine which is specially modified for model boats. Manufactured in the 1960s, this engine is brand new as sold by Octura Models of Niles, Illinois. Octura has been a provider of model speed boat accessories for many years.
Octura advertisement from the July/August 1963 issue of "American Modeler" magazine. Note that the motor mount and universal joint are priced separately. This version in the ad is air cooled and is only rated at 3/4 h.p.
This (below) is the "Model C" Compact ("C" is without tank) and is the version III which means 1 H.P. at 6300 rpm. I believe the engine is about 21cc displacement. The engine serial number on the mounting lug is "B093282" and the opposite lug is stamped "MODEL C." The engine has been modified by Octura for water cooling and is equipped with a special water jacket with inlet and outlet tubes. There is no muffler as the engine was to be used for speed racing - a fitting on the exhaust pipe would fit some sort of exhaust outlet. In addition, the engine is mounted on a cast aluminum mount specially cast for the engine by Octura and carries the Octura name. I talked to the owner of Octura many years ago about this engine and he told me that at the time they also offered a hopped-up version for race enthusiasts - this engine is standard "III". The engine's markings show it was made by Ohlsson & Rice Inc. Note that the original warning tag is around spark plug cautioning the owner to put oil in the fuel and to read the instructions.
February 1969 "Model Airplane News". Photo of boat with Compact engine in an article on the Citizen-Ship RC radios.
This photo of the "White Heat X" is from the "American Modeler Annual" of 1964. Several O&R Compact powered boats ran in the U.S. Boat Championships in Illinois. The similar "White Heat V" had a record breaking run in the 1/16 mile straightaway run in IMBPA "F" Class using a stock O&R Compact.
I believe that the O&R Compact series was sold well into the 1970s as manufactured by Harry Rice under various names with the last carrying the manufacturer's name of Advanced Engineering Products Inc. The engine in the Model A, B and C forms, each with three different horsepowers, was used in many different applications, including leaf blowers, chain saws, water pumps, foggers, bicycle motor, weed trimmer, hedge trimmer, snow blower, air compressor, capstan winch, drill and tools, generators, and even an outboard motor. I have a nice AC/DC generator and water pump combination for boat use powered by the O&R Compact. I've known several modelers that powered RC airplanes with the engine. There is even a special interest group on MSN called "Ohlsson & Rice Cheminol Resource" dedicated to the Compact engine.
Commentary on the O&R "Compact" written in 1966 by model airplane engine guru, Joe Wagner, in The Engine Collectors' Journal. Wagner's article covers the history of the Ohlsson & Rice engines, the company's ups and downs, and the break up of Harry Rice and Irwin Ohlsson. Wagners writes, "A few years ago, Harry Rice got back into the miniature engine business again - but not with a powerplant for model airplanes. The now well known O&R 'Compact' engine, designed and built for all sorts of light, portable outdoor power applications, was the beginning of a real comeback in the 2-cycle engine business for one of the oldest companies engaged in this line. The engine has proved to be so versatile and reliable - almost like the old "23" was in modeling - that now a whole family of O&R 'Compact' engines are available. And, to complete the circle, many modelers nowadays, especially R/C boat enthusiasts, have converted these latest Ohlsson and Rice engines into model power units."
BROWN JUNIOR D IGNITION ENGINE
William Lykens Brown of Philadelphia began developing model gas engines in 1930 while in high school. Bill's friend, Maxwell Bassett, used Bill's experimental engines in models of his design - winning several contests in 1932 - 1933 flying against rubber-powered models. The NAA set up separate events for gas models in 1934 and Bill Brown began production of his engine at that time - first through a friend, Walter Hurleman, and then with his own company, the Junior Motors Corporation. The first engines off the new line were the Brown "B" of .60 cubic inch. These engines are considered to be the first mass-produced model engines.
This Brown Jr. motor ad for a "gasoline engine" appeared in the February 1934 "Universal Model Airplane News" - this is one of the earliest advertisements for the Brown Junior engine. No other engines were advertised in this issue.
Bill Brown's Brown Junior engine launched the gas model hobby and assured it's historical significance. The majority of gas model designs between 1934 and 1942 showed the Brown Junior as the engine of choice. In the next couple of years after 1934, many new gas model engines were placed on the market by competitors, primarily the Baby Cyclone, Bunch Gwin Aero and Mighty Midget and the Ohlsson .56. The Brown Junior enjoyed the greatest sales in the 1936 to 1939 period but fell victim to newer engines as Brown failed to upgrade the .60 and did not develop a Class B engine to compete with the very popular Ohlsson .23 - his attempt, the "Brownie", Brown E, was non-competitive..
This engine is the Brown D, manufactured by Junior Motors from 1938 through 1942. The configuration of this engine, along with the placement of the serial number, 15032D, on top of the lug, suggests that it was built in 1939 which was the peak year for production of the "D" engine (16,600 built) although the "bump" timer arm presumably didn't come out until a year or two later. The "D" is equipped with piston rings.
This version of the Brown Junior has been used for the Brown Junior event in SAM contests. The engine is clean and has good compression. The tank bowl appears to be a new replica. The sparkplug comes with the engine and it is a replica Hurleman. This engine is ready to go flying or occupy a space in your collection - maybe both. The price is $SORRY SOLD$.
If you would like to see, or print out, a 1941 brochure page for the Brown "D", then Click Here for a PDF file. Note on this brochure that the 3-view of the engine still shows the intake choke although not used on the '41 model - the photo of the engine is correct.
40th ANNIVERSARY BROWN JR. COMMEMORATIVE
Herb Wahl was noted for constructing limited edition, commemorative replica engines in the 1970s and 80s. This boxed, Brown Jr. commemorative engine represents Bill Brown's first model engine and is a very significant addition to any model airplane collection. Mr. Brown, who signed the certificate shown below, is now deceased.
The following text is from Herb Wahl's information provided with the commemorative Brown Jr. engine.
In the early 1930's, Bill Brown developed a miniature gasoline engine for model airplanes. "Gas Models" powered by Brown engines were decisively superior in competition with the rubber-powered models of the era. As a result, a separate class for gas-powered models was introduced, establishing the heritage of powered model aviation as we know it today. The Brown Junior engine can justly claim to be the "original" model aircraft engine.Initial production of Brown Jr. engines was by Walter Hurleman. Then the Junior Motors Corporation was formed and the engine was offered for general sale. During the latter 1930's, over 50,000 engines were made. Basically, the Brown Jr. remained unaltered through its many years of production. The original production model with its lapped steel piston became known as the Model B, in 1937 the Model C, and in 1938 the Model D with aluminum pistons and piston rings were offered. Variations in fuel tanks from metal to the plastic bowl occurred on all models, as well as needle valve placement, etc. Ignition timers were of three types, the earlier "underslung", the later cast upright timer, and the late production engines with the Hurleman type of timer.
Some facts about the 40th Anniversary Brown Junior - it combines what I feel to be the best of Brown and Hurleman techniques. All dimensions, porting, stroke, bore, etc. are faithful to the Brown design. The piston/cylinder fit is similar to the technique used by Hurleman. The timer, too, is an adaption of the splendid Hurleman timer, although such a device would not suit today's "production" requirements - each time requires 57 different operations to construct! More modern approaches appear in the investment castings; the crankshaft, which besides being balanced differently, is machined and ground from already-hardened and drawn 4100 series steel (4100 ETD 150) - a slow but precise process; pistons are fine grained cast iron, with construction in the Hurleman manner; cylinder and piston machining, grinding and honing is controlled to 1/10,000 inch, although a final hand lap is used in fitting. Many other parts have special design features, and all have many hours of my labor in them.
Your 40th Anniversary Brown Jr. Engine is one of a limited edition commemortive engine series. It has been carefully test run and is left "set" exactly as taken off my bench. Should you wish to run it, check settings as tagged, open needle valve slightly, choke for 2 or 3 flips, then keep flipping - as it clears it should start right off. I hope you are pleaased with your engine. Parts and service are available. Best regards, (signed) Herb Wahl.
This excellent, boxed engine, Serial Number 199, with all original papers and enclosures from Herb Wahl, is available for $SORRY SOLD$. Papers include the certificate, the above description, a 1975/76 parts list, and a personal note to "Roy" along with an optional needle valve tension spring. This is a replica engine that is already over thirty years old! Antique squared?
OHLSSON & RICE CUSTOM .60 - 1941
The "queen" of the Ohlsson & Rice .60 cubic inch engines, the Custom model came out in March 1940. This was a quality engine extending the lineage of the O&R 23 design philosophy. With a .604 cubic inch displacement, the Custom model featured a ball thrust bearing and a roller bearing crankshaft support. A sporty bronze eagle (called the "Foo Bird" by Harry Rice) headlined the case. The fuel tank top was cast integral with a flared venturi inlet. Obviously an expensive engine to manufacture, the Custom model was last made through 1941; after WW2, the cheaper O&R 60 Special replaced the Custom - the Special dropped the roller bearing, cast tank and venturi and the classy eagle logo. The "Special" actually was announced at the beginning of 1942 but production would have been sharply curtailed as we entered WW2. The ad below is from the January 1942 issue of Air Trails; it would have been written prior to Pearl Harbor.
This engine being offered is the last of the short-term breed. It is the 1941 version with a larger prop shaft measuring 5/16". The engine is serial number 5532.
This engine is in absolutely original condition with the original fuel bowl and correct needle valve. Although certainly run (evidence of a red prop on drive washer), the engine appears virtually as new as you can tell from the photos. It has terrific compression. No O&R collection is complete without this beauty.
There has been no attempt to "doll" this engine - it is original with no polishing or paint. The price of this collector-quality O&R Custom 60 engine, serial number 5532, is $SORRY SOLD.
THE OHLSSON COMMEMORATIVE ENGINE
Herb Wahl was noted for constructing limited edition, commemorative replica engines in the 1970s and 80s. This boxed, Ohlsson Gold Seal represents Irwin Ohlsson's first model engine and is a very significant addition to any model airplane collection. Mr. Ohlsson, who signed the certificate shown below, is now deceased.
The following text is from Herb Wahl's information provided with the commemorative engine.
This is your Ohlsson Commemorative Engine. It was made by Herb Wahl with the approval, authorization, and advice of Mr. Irwin Ohlsson. Every part has been created for this engine - no original dies, fixtures or parts were used. It has been crafted as a composite version of the Ohlsson Gold Seal Engines, and is most like the 1938 model. To suit the small production methods required, it has a few physical differences (for example, the piston construction method), but is functionally like the original Gold Seals. Some of its specifications are:Displacement - .56 cubic inches
Cylinder - Completely from bar stock, 24 kt. gold plate finish for performance and durability, with appearance a side benefit.
Piston - Fine grained cast iron
Con Rod - Forged Aluminum
Crankshaft - ETD 150 high strength steel
Caastings - Investment cast aluminum
Spark Plug - Especially made Ohlsson plugI have test run each engine and left it set as taken from my bench. Following test run, the engine has been cleaned and re-oiled, but probably still has a little fuel in the tank. For use, break in carefully. Se enclosed instructions.
The magnitude of this Ohlsson Commemorative project required me to search for "help" for some of its parts and functions. I turned to Old Timer and Engine Collector friends who pitched in with some key processes. Their help was critical to the project's success, and some of these fine friends are: VIC DIDELOT, MARK FECHNER, DICK CLYMER, KARL SPIELMAKER, STEVE DITTA, BOB HOPPER and JOE W. WAGNER. My and Mr. Ohlsson's thanks are extended to them. We all hope you appreciate out work.
The certificate card which accompanies each engine is for that serial number only. Each card has been hand signed by Mr. Ohlsson - some 800 of them. When the 800 engines are completed by me, no more Ohlsson Commemoratives will ever be made. However, do not be afraid to tun and fly the engine. Their performance seems to be excellent and I will somehow maintain parts and repairs for them. Do not let the 24 Kt. gold finish "scare" you either. It is extremely functional, thermally superior and durable.
You might like to know that at Mr. Ohlsson's suggestion, I am setting aside a few dollars from each engine to b e given to the AMA building fund, so the honor I've had in designing and creating this limited edition engine can be shared by all of you in Mr. Ohlsson's donation to the AMA.
Thank you for your interest and patience. I hope the Ohlsson Commemorative Engine will always be a reminder to you of the grand engines Mr. Ohlsson developed in the early years of model aviation. Best regards, (signed) Herb Wahl.
This excellent engine, with all original papers and enclosures from Herb Wahl, is available for $SORRY SOLD$. Papers include the certificate, the above description, a 1982 parts list, and operating suggestions. A replica engine that is already twenty-five years old!
O.S. 29 Twin Stack First Model - 1949
This rare engine appears in all respects to be "as new" with no signs of having been run. Although dormant for 50+ years, this beauty is ready to fire up. A collectible engine with interesting provenance. The engine is serial number 18031, but I have no idea where O.S. serial numbers started. There are several scratch marks (or nicks) in the anodizing on the fuel tank. This very desirable engine is available for $365.00.
The OS 29 engine is built in Japan and distributed in the United States by Atwood Distributing Co. It is a .29 displacement sport type with power output and general performance similar to the current .29 engines produced in the United States.
Most American engines used for stunt and sport flying operate best at approximately 10,000 rpm running on the ground. The OS .29 is ported for higher rpm and delivers equivalent power at a "working" rpm of 12,000. This engine should be well suited to stunt flying and general sport applications due to its ability to feed fuel evenly. Team racing fans should be interested in the 18,500 rpm combined with easy starting, either hot or cold.
The instruction manual supplied with the engine recommended four different fuel mixtures, giving formulas for each, and special glow plugs. However, the engine test was conducted using popular American fuels with Ohlsson and Champion glow plugs and showed very good results. Modelers wishing to operate gas-powered models in areas where prepared fuels are hard to obtain should be interested to know that one fuel recommended by the manufacturer is made of one part castor oil with three parts alcohol. A special glow plug is recommended with this mixture, but equivalent results should be obtained by using an Ohlsson AA plug or one of the glow plugs designed for half-A engines.
The general appearance of the OS .29 is typical of foreign items imported in this country: very neat workmanship and attention to fine details. The beam motor mounts are quite generous and are slightly above the center of the shaft. A long crankshaft and main bearing move the propeller out a good distance ahead of the needle valve, protecting the fingers during adjustments. The carburetor is of the front rotary type with a very large bell mouth venturi. Generous cooling surface is provided by a large cylinder head and large fins on the upper part of the cylinder.
Material and workmanship inside this engine indicate good resistance to wear. The steel crankshaft is hardened and ground to close tolerance. Double intake and exhaust ports are cut in each side of the steel cylinder, and fins are machined integral. The piston is made of cast iron with a safety plug fitted into the top that will melt if the engine overheats. The base of the engine is designed to be very compact and give a high base compression.
Performance was very good during the first part of the test, but continued running showed an increase of 1,000 rpm and reached a constant in about five hours. Starting was easy at all times with the engine either hot or cold. The needle valve adjustment was very good at all speeds and the rengine ran smooth throughout the full range. At 10,000 rpm the power output was only slightly less that that of the best American engines but came up to a most favorable comparison at 12,000 rpm. This is probably due to the exhaust port opening sooner on the OS .29.
This engine is produced by a company that is twenty years old and put sixteen different models on the market, over thirty thousand engines having been produced. They also make an .09 and .19 engine which is expected to be available in this country. All screws and threads are interchangeable with U.S. parts except the propeller nut. This is an odd thread and care should be exercised when changing propellers on the flying field, since replacement can be obtained only through parts service.
End of article.
This is the first model O.S. .29 twin stack glo engine; it was purchased in Japan over 50 years ago! The purchaser of this engine lived in China with his parents who were steamship representatives. He purchased some kits and engines on a trip to Japan although these items were never used.
Another view of the same model version engine that is being offered for sale is pictured below.
The O.S. 29 first model twin stack being offered is pictured above; the O.S. website, www.osengines.com, in their history section, pictures this engine and also lists and pictures the second version of this engine as the "1950 New 29", the last of the 29 series until the O.S. MAX came out in 1954 - there is a similar third model which was imported to the U.S. by Bill Atwood and is described below in an article. This third model has a different crankcase casting with the addition of a thin horizontal web and with "ATWOOD MODEL" cast in the crankcase on the lh side just above the web. The picture shown below for comparison purposes is the "1950 New 29" taken from the O.S. website (note that this later version can be easily detected because of the fins below the exhaust stack - the first model being offered has no fins in that location).
O.S. was started in 1936 by Shigeo Ogawa. Shigeo Ogawa constructed his first rubber-powered model in 1931. He finished technical school education in Osaka in 1935 and went to work as a furniture designer. With a few machine tools in a warehouse, Shigeo built model steam engines and locomotives; he devised a small pressure gage which he sold in model shops in Japan. He saw photos of the Brown Junior in 1937 and decided to build his own, not very successfully but it did run with a flywheel - he provided a water jacket and ran it in a boat. He made his first production engine in 1937-38, the Pixie, then a .44 displacement called the Buick. During WWII he served in Malaya and Thailand. Following the war, he returned and worked on a .60 front rotor. The U.S. servicemen in Japan got numerous engines from the U.S. and these engines inspired Shigeo to produce his own, quality engine, the O.S. series.
The OS "29", an article from the January 1953 issue of Air Trails magazine. (Note that this is the Third Version Model which has "Atwood Model" cast into the crankcase and was imported into the U.S. by Atwood.)
APEX SKYLARK
The Apex Skylark engine was manufactured as either a kit or complete engine beginning around 1936; the Apex Motors company was located in Berkeley, California. The prime target markets for the Skylark were machinists and students taking shop class. The kit included some finished parts including the cylinder assembly, piston pin, piston ring, spark plug, timer spring, ignition parts and the gas lines - a complete set of assembly and working drawings were provided. All materials and castings necessary to complete the engine were provided, including bolts, nuts and gaskets.
The engine has a 7/8" bore and a 7/8" stroke, making it around a .60 cubic-inch displacement. A portion of a Skylark brochure is shown below; for the complete 2-page brochure, Click Here. Note that the cylinder head cooling fins on the brochure Skylark have been machined while most engines were made with the "as cast" fins - Skylarks pictured in reference books have the "as cast" fins. Apex also made a .120 which had machined fins similar in appearance to a Forster 99.
The engine pictured above does not show a fuel tank, which is the case for the engine being offered. The engine could be run in either direction. This engine is in like new condition, complete with spark plug. Production of this engine apparently ceased with World War II - I can find no advertising copy in magazines - perhaps ads were carried in craft publications aimed at small engines. This is a rare model engine which would make a valuable addition to a collection and would be fun to run. Price for this unusual example is $400.00. Detailed photos shown below.
ROCKET VICTOR .453 - 1945
The 1945 Rocket Victor Model was a development of the 1940 May "Silver King" manufactured in Detroit by George May. World War II brought an end to the May "Rockets" and by 1945, the engine was made by Corporate Products, Inc,. still in Detroit. Production (and the company) apparently ceased by 1947 and the product was sold off by Little Mike Marx Toy Co. for as little as $4.50. The demise of Rocket Motors has been linked to General Motors! When GM was about to launch the Olds 88 "Rocket" their marketing people discovered the Rocket model engine - not wanting brand name competition, GM bought the Rocket Motor operation and crushed all the dies.
The engine offered here has several features which distinguish it from many of the Rocket Victors of 1945. The back cover has the tank mounting rim that was used for the streamline tank on the 1940 "Silver King" - my guess is that this casting was never changed and that most of the production engines had the rim machined off and at some point is was decided tht it was not necessary to remove it. Note that the line drawing above does not show this rim but it is very apparent in several of the photos below. Of more consequence, some of the Victors had a small set screw in the bottom of the case extension to retain the main bearing - this engine has that setscrew.
The Rocket Victor is a beautiful engine which exudes that styling of the 1940s. The engine case can be polished to a brilliant shine; I have not polished this engine - it is in the basic "as sold" bright condition. The engine is tight with excellent compression and I can't tell if it has been used. The tank bowl is original. One more Rocket model came out in 1946, the Rocket "4610" with an enclosed timer and a hex-shaped venturi and separate tank - the last of the line.
A marvelous metal sculpture that runs. Look at that nice timer arm casting - wonder how many of those survived flying? The Rocket Victor utilized many steel stamping for internal parts and these parts were heavily case hardened, making them quite strong. The wrist pin arrangement is rather unique as the brass piston baffle is held in place by the wrist pin carrier nut. The engine has a reputation of being very strong if not over-revved. Some reproduction parts are currently available.
The Rocket was heavily advertised in the immediate post-war era as one of the first engines to hit the market and had a price tag of $22.50, less coil and condenser. Photos in ads do not show the back cover rim. Ads stated: "The quick starting and thrilling performance of the new, improved Rocket Victor Motor are due to the patented Rotor Intake Valve in connection with special tested parts. Every Rocket Motor is bench tested at the factory and the most exacting care is taken in the manufacturing operations." The advertised displacement was .460 cu. in. This collector engine is available for $SORRY SOLD$.
A JEWEL IN PERFORMANCE . . .McCOY 35
The Testor's McCoy "35" glow engine made its debut in 1957, two years following Testor's buying the Duro-Matic company. This engine was aimed at the control line stunt market. The two-page ad from the March 1957 American Modeler is pictured below.
The ad copy reads:
Here . . . after months of engineering development, through flight-testing . . . is a new triumph in model airplane engines. It is the sensational McCoy "35" Red Head . . . beyond any question "absolute tops" in appearance, in packaging, in easy starting, in stunt performance, in unequalled value at just $10.00. This fabulous "35" features a much higher base compression ration to provide maximum power (more than any other "35") with minimum fuel consumption . . . has new lighter weight cast Mechaniote pistone and new port timing system (utilizing a larger by-pass) which eliminate vibration throughout the complete power curve from 9,000 to 15,000 rpm . . . draws fuel in any stunt pattern. And look at that beautiful plastic box . . . complete with a base compartment for instructions, guarantee card, etc. Never before has an engine been given such a jewel-like setting . . . such smartly modern packaging to reflect its unquestionable superiority at first sight. Don't wait another day. You'll discover a wonderful new world of flying when you power your plane with a McCoy "35"!
That's some engine. This 50-year-old engine, new in box, can be yours for SORRY SOLD which includes the "jewel box." The jewel box latch has been broken off and the "compartment" with papers is missing.
THIMBLE DROME SPORTSMAN 15 and SPACE HOPPER .049
The first of the larger L.M. Cox Thimble Drome engines was the 1959 Sportsman 15. This .142 cu. in. engine has a crankcase machined from an extruded bar and has beam mounts. It has no colored parts and uses plain bearings. This engine is NIB as shown below and is priced at $295.00. Instructions, tool etc. are located in the package.
The Cox 15 was used by Sterling to power their ready-to-fly, plastic Mustang. Their 3-page ad in the July 1960 American Modeler states that it is "Powered with the new L.M. Cox .15 engine with self-starter." The same issue has a multi-page write up about the Sterling "Molded" Mustang by the exceptional artist and model writer, Cal Smith. The beginning of the article on this 36", Cox .15 powered U-control model is reproduced below.
Cal Smith starts the article: "Important innovations in the model airplane field come few and far between, so lets cheer Sterling's new ready-to-fly Mustang. Your reporter feels that this plastic model is a milestone as important as the first gas engine, Jim Walker's U-control, the glow-plug and exam-free radio control. This plastic Mustand is different, make no mistake."
The 1959 Space Hopper 049 is a smaller version of the Sportsman 15 with a similar design. The engine has a displacement of .049 cu. in. The NIB, L.M. Cox thimble Drome Space Hopper 049, pictured below, is priced at $295.00. Instructions, tool etc. are located in the package.
Note. The first engine that Cox completely manufactured was the L.M.Cox Thimble Drome Space Bug .049 in 1952.
FOX 09 ROCKET - First Fox .09
This is the first Fox .09 engine, coming out in 1959. With a displacement of .099 cu. in., the engine has a die cast crankcase with an integral fuel tank. The head is finless. It has a lapped piston with a ball and socket connecting rod joint and has no bushing in the crankcase. NIB with a parts envelope, guarantee certificate and instructions. Although the engine is a "Rocket," there is no use of the term on the box or in the paperwork accompanying the engine - only that is has, "Missile Age Styling." An excellent collector's example priced at $SORRY SOLD.
The February 1960 issue of American Modeler magazine has a writeup description of this engine under the title of "Duke's .09 Engine Designed for Rugged Use By Sports Flyers." You can access a PDF file of this page by Clicking Here.
K&B/ALLYN TORPEDO GREEN HEADS - GLOW
The K&B/Allyn Torpedo 09 was the smallest K&B green head produced. The engine came on the market in 1956. The 1956 engine had no web in the exhaust port, but a center web was added in 1958 and these engines had serial numbers ranging from 09500 to 27500. The NIB K&B/Allyn 09 being offered here is serial number 15716. The boxed engine (Stock Number #500) is complete with the instruction sheet and parts list, guarantee card, break-in warning slip and a K&B/Allyn decal. The cardboard tube prop spacer is included but I forgot to put it back on for the photo - the engine has been checked and is in like-new condition.
The price of this K&B/Allyn Torpedo 09 is $sorry sold.
In May 1955, the K&B Manufacturing Co. entered into a merger with the Allyn Sales Company; the new name was K&B/Allyn with manufacturing in Los Angeles on Duarte Street. The K&B/Allyn operation existed until May 1960 at which time the "Allyn" portion of the name was dropped and the plant moved to Downey as K&B Manufacturing became a subsidiary of Aurora Plastics. The original "Torpedo" name was obtained from Bill Atwood's Phantom Motors by Lud Kading and John Brodbeck around 1946. Engines with boxes marked "K&B/Allyn" are from the 1955 to 1960 era.
K&B/ALLYN TORPEDO 35 GREEN HEAD
The first K&B/Allyn Torpedo 35 green head was introduced in July 1954, and during the K&B/Allyn period, the "35" appeared in several versions including an R/C version with exhaust baffle in 1958 and a "combat" version marked with a "C" on the case. The 1954 version had serial numbers from 00100 to 40000. The NIB engine being offered here is serial number 31487. The engine is in "as new" condition and comes with the instructions and parts list, decals, break-in slip and guarantee card. The designation of "K&B/Allyn," as on the box, existed between 1955 and 1960, dating this engine along with its serial number. The price of this Stock #507 "35" is $105.00.
O&R MIDJET .049 - 1954/55
Harry Rice designed the new O&R 049 Midjet, a glow engine with a displacement of .0495 cu. in.; the engine was introduced in 1954/55. It features a large die cast fuel tank which also serves as a radial mounting. The early production engines had natural finish on the head and fins and the "O&R Foo Bird" copper eagle was on the front of the cylinder, the first time the "Foo Bird" had been used since the 1940 Ohlsson 60 Custom. The O&R 049 Mite was introduced in 1956 with a shorter shaft case compared to the Midjet and had a black oxide cylinder. Cheminol (O&R) suspended production of model engines in mid-1958. The company continued to make the O&R Compact 1 h.p. engine for industrial purposes well into the 1960s and 70s. Irwin Ohlsson continued in business as Ohlsson Manufacturing Co. producing glow plugs. Of interest is a 1958 glow plug advertisement by Ohlsson Manufacturing which states that they are "Not connected with Ohlsson & Rice."
The O&R 049 Midjet offered here is an early model and appears to be new. It comes with the original instructions/parts list, Warranty card and "Foo Bird" decals. The engine has the copper eagle "Foo Bird" on the cylinder. These items are pictured bleow. This Harry Rice engine was introduced into a very competitive market as the .049s became popular. This is a fine example of one of the last of the O&Rs and may be purchased for $137.50.
The Ohlsson & Rice Mfg. Co. was an outgrowth of the original Ohlsson company and the O&R engines became America's most popular engines for many years; Harry Rice and Irwin Ohlsson split up around 1952 and Harry bought the Cheminol Corp. to market the O&R fuel product. Rice also bought the interest in the Ohlsson & Rice, Inc. company. Rice is credited as being the designer of the O&R engines. By 1955 most of the O&R engine line was being produced again by Harry Rice's Cheminol. There was no longer a Mr. "O" in O&R.
Engines may be ordered by contacting CollectAir through theFeedback Link at left, top margin, or calling (805) 560-1323 or cell (408) 828-2810 (preferred). Payment by cash, check or credit card. Mail to CollectAir, 1324 De La Vina St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Credit card ordering info is given on the Products page.