I have a Fairmont Type QM 6 hp engine that belonged to my late father. I’d like to get it running again, but I know very little about it. I am hoping that you can help me. I would like to know what gasoline to use (leaded, unleaded, and what octane?), what oil to mix (regular motor oil, 2-cycle oil?) and the ratio. I believe he used a ratio of 25:1. Also, could you tell me what voltage battery to use on the coil? I would like to find some literature and/or manuals, if they exist. I appreciate any help you can offer.

Gene A. Trevail
Catskill, New York
owlsridge@hotmail.com

Gene, in the April 1989 issue of GEM, regular contributor Andrew Mackey noted that his Fairmont manual called for a high 12:1 ratio. Engines of that era used standard 30w or 40w engine oil and leaded fuel. You shouldn’t have any issues running unleaded for display purposes. The coil is most likely rated for 6 volts. Perhaps a reader can confirm? – 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

RELATED ARTICLES

Fairbanks Morse Z

Help one Gas Engine Magazine reader track down the history of this mysterious, 1-1/2hp engine.

Witte Cover

Check out this mysterious item with a Witte logo from an estate sale! Maybe you can identify it.

Origin of Curious Gear System

Familiar with gear systems? Check out this reader’s letter about a mysterious gear system from Bellville, Illinois, and dated 1892.