Like other early manufacturers, engineer Charles L. Lawrance first designed racing car engines before founding the Lawrance Aero Engine Corporation in New York City in 1917.
Although designed by Lawrance, Excelsior Auto Cycle Motor Mfg. & Supply of Chicago, Illinois manufactured the Model A-3 engine. An interesting feature of this engine was that both pistons worked on the same crank. During World War I, it was used in the non-flying Breeze Penquin training aircraft. The purpose of that aircraft was to instruct student pilots in the use of aircraft controls while running on the ground. Beginning in January 1918, 301 Breeze Penguins were procured.
Lawrance later had a very successful career with the Wright Aeronautical Corporation, particularly in its development of the famous Whirlwind series of radial engines.
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 1916
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Excelsior Auto Cycle Motor Mfg. & Supply (Lawrance)
Designer
Lawrance Aero Engine Corp
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, in-line, 2 cylinders, air-cooled
Horsepower: 20.9 kW (28 hp) at 1,400 rpm
Displacement: Not available
Bore and Stroke: Not available
Weight: Not available
Dimensions
Depth 105.4 cm (41.5 in.), Length 119.4 cm (47 in.), Width 85.1 cm (33.5 in.)
Materials
Steel, Aluminum, Paint, Copper, Phenolic, Textile, Rubber
Inventory Number
A19560078000
Credit Line
Gift of William D. Parker
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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