Restoring a 5hp Fairbanks-Morse Z

Reader Contribution by Staff
Published on March 13, 2019
article image
by Gas Engine Magazine Staff

 

1938 Fairbanks-Morse 5hp Z Style B

Manufacturer: Fairbanks, Morse & Co., Beloit, WI
Year: 1938
Serial No.: 807471
Horsepower: 5hp @ 600rpm
Bore & stroke: 4-3/4in x 6in
Flywheels: 21-1/16in x 2-3/8in
Ignition: Spark plug with Fairbanks-Morse RV 1 high-tension magneto
Fuel: Gasoline
Governing: Throttle
Cooling: Hopper


restored and polished copper name place for engine

I would like to share this restoration of a 1938 5hp Fairbanks-Morse Z Style B engine. The engine was originally purchased from Mark Wiggins in Oregon and restored by Bill Fisch of Cottonwood, California, and Richard Jackson of Shingletown, California. The whole project excluding the truck took approximately six weeks. It was a fantastic day when we fired up this beautiful engine.

Left view of restored green engine

Restoring this engine was a new experience for me. I have mechanical abilities, but I’d never taken a Fairbanks down to the last cotter pin. I owe a lot to Mark and Bill, and to Gas Engine Magazine for photos, information, and referrals.

Engine in starting conditions., rusted and faded paint

Richard Jackson
Shingletown, California


Thanks for sharing, Richard. The last photo shows what you started with. Nice job! – Editor


Please send your questions and comments for Flywheel Forum to Gas Engine Magazine, 1503 SW 42nd St., Topeka, KS 66609-1265 or email editor@gasenginemagazine.com

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