I have a Fairbanks-Morse Model Z engine that is direct-connected to a single-cylinder, hopper-cooled air compressor. It looks to be factory equipment as the engine is balanced to run the compressor and it is all bolted to a 1-piece, cast iron base.
The tag on the front of the engine says that it is 1-1/2 HP at 500 RPM and the serial number is 613124. The bore and stroke of the engine is 3-1/2 by 5 inches, and it has a Type R magneto that is gear driven. I have never seen anything like this before and any information would be greatly appreciated. Aaron Sears, 16607 Raven Rock Rd., Sabillasville, MD 21780; (301) 416-8193.
Editor’s note: According to C.H. Wendel in his book Fairbanks Morse – 100 Years of Engine Technology: “As might have been expected, Fairbanks Morse had developed their own air compressors prior to 1921. A logical next step was to direct-couple the compressor to a Fairbanks Morse engine. With the need for air starting of large oil and diesel engines, the company was prepared to furnish an air supply unit like this with every installation. To insure rigidity, the entire unit was mounted on a heavy cast iron base.”
