Specifications |
|
| Type: | 4-cylinder, water-cooled, inline, piston |
| Displacement: | 240 cu. in. |
| Weight: | ~170 lbs. |
| Power Output: | 28-42 hp |
| Year: | c. 1910 |
| NEAM Id: | 222 |
| Location: | Civil Hangar |
The Wright Brothers contracted a Dayton Ohio foundry, the Buckeye Iron and Brass Works, to cast an aluminum crankcase for their planned engine. While the engine design was somewhat crude, even for its time, this marked the first time alninum was used in aircraft engine construction. This material became essential in aircraft design and development owing to its stength and light weight. The engine had no fuel pump, carburetor or spark plugs, or even a throttle. Gasoline was gravity fed from a tank mounted below the upper wing. Initial spark was generated with a coil and four batteries not carried on the airplane. A flywheel driven magneto provided current while the engine was running. Source: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
This engine is believed to be the oldest surviving Wright Brothers aero engine in running condition. It was restored by brothers Brian E. Bailey and Stuart E. Bailey and was run on December 17, 2003 on the 100th anniversary of the Wright Brothers first airplane flight.
Please contact Nick Hurley, Museum Curator, by email if you have any information or comments on the Wright Brothers Engine #17.
