At 17.35 the Mors was wheeled out into the evening sunlight. A gallon of petrol was poured into the massive tank and Mr Ward pumped frantically on the fuel air pressure pump whilst W.Way primed the Zenith carburettor. The Patron of this foolish undertaking then mounted the beast, Mr D.Flintstone armed himself with two fire extinguishers and all others present gathered for the push start. Within 10 yards the engine burst into earsplitting life and the machine leapt forward.....
As yet no radiator has been added, so the excitement was short lived. However the engine was run long enough to ascertain that at least two of the forward gears work, the clutch works, the brakes slow the vehicle and the engine runs on all eight cylinders and has a good 60psi oil pressure.
Congratulations must be made to all those involved so far - an amazing effort!
5 comments:
Exceptional usage of my architypal OX-5 if I do say so myself. Not originally designed for such low level flying. Suggest you fashion some wings and a prop and dispense with those heavy chains.
GHC
Glen,
I do seem to remember that you fitted an OX5 in a Motor Bicycle? I thought I heared over supper the other evening that you may be considering an Airship?
An OX5 would go rather well in that would it not?
Come along check your history, the motorcycle was a mere 40hp V8 not the fire breathing 90hp OX-5. Surprised the beer count included a half pint didn't think true english pubs served them, must fly over deepest darkest Sussex in my Jenny sometime.
GHC
Did I hear the word AIRSHIP?
I can confirm Oli Way has signed up for my next Airship Pilots course.
You never know - once the dust has settled after the Peking adventure, I wouldn't be surprised to see an Airship hangar go up at Bigenor!
Further reading about V8 motors in Airships HERE and HERE. ( Curtiss & JAP )
Robin.
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