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Aeronca (Aeronautical Corporation of America) built the first widely accepted light planes in the U.S., the Collegian. These were originally powered by an engine based on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle engine, the Harlequin. To overcome limitations of that engine, Aeronca designed its own engine, the E-107, and that engine proved inadequately powered for a larger aircraft.

Certificated in April 1931, the Aeronca E-113 was an outgrowth of the Wright-Morehouse engine and was designed again for light aircraft. Considered highly reliable, it was the most powerful two-cylinder engine of its time. The E-113 first powered the Aeronca C-1 Cadet aircraft in 1931. It was also used in the Aeronca C-2 and C-3 aircraft. The C-3 was widely used for student instruction in the 1930s.

Display Status

This object is on display in Allan and Shelley Holt Innovations Gallery at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

Allan and Shelley Holt Innovations Gallery

Object Details

Date

Circa early 1930s

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary

Manufacturer

Aeronca

Physical Description

Type: Reciprocating, 2 cylinders, horizontally-opposed, liquid cooled
Power rating: 27 kW (36 hp) at 2,400 rpm
Displacement: 1.86 L (113.5 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 108 mm (4.25 in.) x 102 mm (4 in.)
Weight: 51.3 kg (113 lb)

Dimensions

Overall (Engine on stand): 2 ft. 10 1/2 in. × 2 ft., 113lb., 139.7cm (87.6 × 61cm, 51.3kg, 4 ft. 7 in.)

Materials

Aluminum, Steel, Paint, Brass, Rubber, Copper, Phenolic

Inventory Number

A19610069000

Credit Line

Gift of the Aeronca Manufacturing Corporation

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Open Access (CCO)
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