This is one of two rotary type engines built by the Hendee Manufacturing Company of Springfield, Massachusetts, manufacturers of the Indian Motorcycle. Although George Hendee led the business, his fellow former bicycle racer Oscar Hedstrom was the principal engineer, and responsible for the company's brief entry into aviation. Several features of the French Gnome "Omega" engine were incorporated into its design, particularly the inlet valves which are similar to the Monosaupape Engine.
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
1911
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Hendee Manufacturing Co. (Springfield, Massachusetts)
Physical Description
Type: Rotary, 7 cylinders, air-cooled
Power rating: 37.3 kW (50 hp) at 1,100 rpm
Displacement: 8.41 L (513 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 111 mm (4.375 in.) x 124 mm (4.875 in.)
Weight: 84 kg (185 lb)
Dimensions
3-D: 34.5 × 91.4cm (13 9/16 × 36 in.)
Support: 61 × 48.3 × 45.7cm (24 × 19 × 18 in.)
Materials
Metal
Inventory Number
A19240002000
Credit Line
Gift of Earle Ovington
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.