Object Details
Manufacturer
Continental, Inc.
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, 4 cylinders, Horizontally opposed, Air-cooled
Power rating: 37.3 kW (50 hp) at 1,900 rpm
Displacement: 2.8 L (171 cu in)
Bore and Stroke: 98 mm (3.9 in.) x 92 mm (3.6 in.)
Weight: 72.6 kg (160 lb)
Summary
Once the largest independent manufacturer of automotive engines, Detroit’s Continental Motors Corporation purchased the rights to a single-sleeve valve engine design in 1925, believing this technology might replace poppet valves in aircraft engines. However, after considerable testing with U.S. Navy support, the company only became successful in aviation after reverting to poppet valves.
Continental’s future success began in 1931 when it began production of four cylinder horizontally opposed engines. For example, the Continental A-40 made the classic Piper Cub possible. Today the opposed engine design has replaced all other types of piston engines for various reasons, including fewer cylinders for equal power and smooth running. And Continental is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of general aviation engines.
The A-50 powered the Luscombe 8 high wing, side-by-side seating, monoplane. Built about 1939, this rare artifact trained mechanics and pilots for its owner, Victor ("Speed") G. Johnson, an early aviator.
Credit Line
Donated by Lee Embree
Date
Circa 1939
Inventory Number
A19870040000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Materials
HAZMAT: Cadmium Plating
Steel
Aluminum
Coating
Copper Alloy
Rubber
Dimensions
Storage (Stand): 3 ft. 4 1/4 in. × 3 ft. 2 1/2 in. × 3 ft. 8 1/2 in., 295lb. (102.2 × 97.8 × 113cm, 133.8kg)
3-D (Engine): 82.5 × 80 × 68.6cm (2 ft. 8 1/2 in. × 2 ft. 7 1/2 in. × 2 ft. 3 in.)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19870040000