2704 Sunshine Dr. S. Lakeland, Florida 33801
Here are two pictures of five of my 12 model hot air and steam
engines. All my models have been made from junkyard scrap and parts
from old adding machines, sewing machines and old gas engines.
The single cylinder hot air walking beam engine develops a pound
and a half of pressure and one inch of vacuum. Has two flywheels,
which were sewing machine wheels with three spokes cut out and rims
turned flat. For burner cylinder bottoms I use fuel strainer covers
from Ford fuel pumps; they are thin enough to heat up good and yet
thick enough so as not to warp from heat.
The twin cylinder walking beam engine has a straight shaft with
one heavy flywheel. Cams taken from a car air conditioner
compressor actuate the beam. To get more throw on the displacer
piston, I offset the center beam bearing one inch shorter on the
cam side. This engine does not run over 130 rpms; however, it
develops a lot of power. I have a chain sprocket on the shaft to
run something eventually.
These are not small engines; they all weigh approximately 15 to
25 pounds, and stand 15 to 20 inches tall.
I have made one small flame licker, not shown, that will run
approximately 1000 rpms with a flame from a propane torch. It will
run on alcohol; however, I have to retard the timing and it runs
much slower.
I have a trailer full of gas engines which I manage to take to
our Zolfo Springs Pioneer Days each March. Have two Fairmonts, two
air-cooled Lausons, an Iron Horse, WMB with crank, an LI Briggs, a
1941 ZZ Briggs (all new parts), a ZZ Briggs marine version with
reverse gear, a four cylinder German Borgward engine and am now
building a small tractor using a Crosley engine.
I also have a 1942 VO Case tractor with a flathead Continental
engine which I am in a slow process of rebuilding.
Our next Zolfo Springs Show will be held March 3, 4, 5 and 6,
1983.
