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Engine, Kinner R-540-1M (R-55), Radial 5

Air and Space Museum

Object Details

Manufacturer

Kinner Motors Incorporated

Physical Description

Type: Reciprocating, 5 cylinders, radial, air cooled
Power rating: 119 kW (160 hp) at 1,850 rpm
Displacement: 8.85 L (540 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 127 mm (5.0 in.) x 140 mm (5.5 in.)
Weight: 160 kg (353 lb)

Summary

Many engines sought to replace the ubiquitous Curtiss OX-5, many of which remained following World War I. Kinner 5-cylinder radials were rugged, durable, reliable, and economical, but not considered elegant at any time during this company’s existence, and apparently never cowled. First introduced in 1927, they were used in military biplane aircraft as well as Kinner’s own monoplane.
The Kinner R-5, Series 2 engine was certificated in December 1935. A principal R-5 design change from previous Kinner engines was a greatly increased cooling area resulting from longer and more closely spaced fins on the cylinder heads.
This military version of the engine, the R-540-1, powered the Ryan PT-22 and PT-22A primary trainer aircraft. Other R-540 series engine models powered aircraft such as the Stearman PT-9 and Verville PT-10 as well as the Sikorsky H-4 helicopter. The firm rapidly declined from 1945.

Credit Line

Exchange with Kenneth L. Stoltzfus

Date

Circa 1942

Inventory Number

A19680480000

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply

Type

PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary

Materials

Aluminum
Steel
Paint
Copper Alloy
Natural Fabric
Rubber
Cadmium Plating
Adhesive
Paper
Ink

Dimensions

Diameter 114.3 cm (45 in.), Length 102.9 cm (40.5 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

Metadata Usage

Not determined

Link to Original Record

http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/nv919b61779-e71b-4713-8fcc-1616b9daf348

Record ID

nasm_A19680480000

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