The Menasco Manufacturing Corporation was established in 1926 in Los Angeles. Between 1928 and 1929, the company began developing the first of a series of inverted, inline air-cooled engines that became its design hallmark. The advantages of this design included improved pilot visibility, a high propeller centerline, and streamlined, low-drag installation.
Company President Al Menasco had a personal interest in high performance engines, and 4- and 6-cylinder Menasco engines powered many small racing aircraft to victory in the 1930s. The supercharged Model B6S was type certificated in 1934. A B6S powered the Howard DGA-4 "Mike" aircraft, which raced successfully in the Thompson and Greve Trophy competitions. The engine displayed here powered a British Miles Mohawk owned by Charles Lindbergh and used by him on flights in Europe, India, and Asia in 1937 and 1938.
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 1934
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Menasco Manufacturing Co.
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, 6 cylinders, in-line, inverted, air cooled
Power rating: 149 kW (200 hp) at 2,250 rpm
Displacement: 6 L (496 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 114 mm (4.5 in.) x 130 mm (5.1 in.)
Weight: 180.5 kg (398 lb)
Dimensions
Height 71.9 cm (28.3 in.), Length 151 cm (59.4 in.), Width 30.1 cm (11.9 in.)
Materials
HAZMAT: Possible Cadmium and Magnesium
Aluminum, Steel, Copper, Rubber, Preservative coating, Paint, Textile, Phenolic
Inventory Number
A19560065000
Credit Line
Gift of John Nessen
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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