Specifications |
|
| Type: | 8-cylinder, liquid-cooled, “V” piston |
| Displacement: | 503 cu. in |
| Weight: | 390 lbs. |
| Power Output: | 90 hp @ 1,400 rpm |
| Year: | 1917 |
| NEAM Id: | 17 |
| Location: | Connector between Military and Civil Hangars |
Gift of George S. Pranaitis
An outstanding American engine of the World War I era, the OX-5 powered the Curtiss JN-4 “Jenny” trainer. It is a liquid-cooled V-8 and was the first US-designed engine to enter mass production with approximately 12,600 units built. Its service continued through succeeding years as surplus aircraft were purchased by barnstormers and private owners. It also helped foster the private aviation industry by powering the WACO Travel Air and other new aircraft into the early 1930's.
Its separate cylinder type of construction gave it a higher power-to-weight ratio compared to then state-of-the-art automotive engines.
This license-built example was manufactured in 1917 by Willys-Morrow in Elmira, NY.
Please contact Nick Hurley, Museum Curator, by email if you have any information or comments on the Curtiss OX-5.
