Among the most successful early engines marketed in America were those designed and built by aviation pioneer and inventor Glenn Curtiss in his factory in Hammondsport, New York. Introduced in 1911 and variously known as a Model H or K, this engine was an enlarged and improved version of earlier Curtiss in-line power plants. Each cylinder in the engine had a single push rod and rocker arm, which operated the inlet and exhaust valves.

The Model K engine powered aircraft such as the Curtiss Models D and E.

Display Status

This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Boeing Aviation Hangar

Object Details

Date

1912

Country of Origin

United States of America

Type

PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary

Manufacturer

Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company

Designer

Glenn H. Curtiss

Physical Description

Type: Reciprocating, in-line, 4 cylinders, water cooled
Power rating: 30 kW (40 hp) at 1,500 rpm
Displacement: 4.1 L (251 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 102 mm (4 in.) x 127 mm (5 in.)
Weight: 79.5 kg (175 lb)

Dimensions

Length 50.8 cm (20.0 in.), Width 30.5 cm (12.0 in.), Height 77.5 cm (30.5 in.)

Inventory Number

A19660008000

Credit Line

Found in the collection.

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonian’s Terms of Use.