In April 1931, the Guiberson Diesel Engine Company of Dallas, Texas, displayed publicly for the first time its A-980 Diesel aircraft engine, based on designs of F.A. Thaheld. The 9-cylinder, air-cooled radial was rated at 138 kW (185 shp), test flown in a Waco biplane, and certificated in November 1931. In 1934, the U.S. Navy , interested in Diesel engines for their low specific fuel consumption, ordered the slightly larger A-918 diesel, and two were delivered to the Bureau of Aeronautics for testing where they were rated at 189 kW (253 shp).

In June 1936, the U.S. Navy ordered two more of the improved XR-918-2 engines, which successfully completed a 50-hour development test run at the Naval Aircraft Factory. However, Diesels proved too heavy for their power rating, and weren't used as combat engines. Savings in specific fuel consumption were offset by the increased fuel load required to compensate for the increased power plant weight.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date Circa 1936 Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary Manufacturer Guiberson Diesel Engine Company (Dallas, Texas)
 Physical Description Type: Reciprocating, 9 cylinders, radial, air-cooled Power rating: 179 kW (240 hp) at 2,020 rpm Displacement: 15.0 L (918 cu in.) Bore and Stroke: 120.7 mm (4.75 in.) x 146.1 mm (5.75 in.) Weight: 675 kg (550 lb) Dimensions Diameter 118.7 cm (46.75 in.), Length 90.5 cm (35.625 in.)
 Materials Steel
Aluminum
Magnesium Alloy
Rubber
Plastic
Copper Alloy
Rubberized Fabric
Cadmium Plating
Paint
 Inventory Number A19710889000 Credit Line Transferred from the U.S. Navy Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.