This engine was designed by Harold E. Morehouse, whose first engine was built by the Steel Products Engineering Company of Springfield, Ohio in 1923; and developed 14.9 kW (20 hp). It was used for experimental work by the Propeller Branch of the Army’s Engineering Division. This later larger model was sold to the Wright Aeronautical Corporation. Known as the Wright-Morehouse engine, it was introduced in 1925, and designed to conform to the National Aeronautic Association contest requirements for light plane engines. Particular attention was paid to make it simple, rugged, and easy to care for and inspect. It was also designed for a reduction gear, when required. This type of engine powered the prototype Aeronca C-2 .
The manufacturing rights for the WM-80 were eventually sold by Wright to Lincoln Aircraft of Lincoln, Nebraska, and the engine renamed the Lincoln “Rocket.” The engine did not achieve any commercial success.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Circa 1925
United States of America
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Wright Aeronautical
Type: Reciprocating, horizontally-opposed, 2 cylinders, air-cooled
Power rating: 20.9 kW (28 hp) at 2,500 rpm
Displacement: 1.3 L (80 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 95.3 mm (3.75 in.) x 92.1 mm (3.625 in.)
Weight: 38.6 kg (85 lb)
Length 96 cm (37.8 in.), Width 70.5 cm (27.8 in.), Height 88.9 cm (35 in.)
Steel
Paint
Aluminum
Copper Alloy
Rubber
A19320074000
Transferred from the War Department
National Air and Space Museum
Usage conditions apply
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