Object Details
Manufacturer
Heath-Henderson
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, In-line, 4 cylinders, air cooled
Power rating: 22.4 kW (30 hp) at 3,000 rpm
Displacement: 1.4 L (83 cu in)
Bore and Stroke: 70 mm (2.8 in.) x 89 mm (3.5 in.)
Weight: 54 kg (119 lb)
Summary
The Heath Airplane Company's Model B-4 was an in-line, four-cylinder, air-cooled Henderson motorcycle engine converted for use in aircraft by modifying the lubrication system and the valves. The B-4 mainly powered the small and economical Heath Parasol monoplane, which Heath sold in kit form for homebuilders in the 1920s and '30s.
The low-cost, reliable Henderson motorcycle engine was well-suited for the Heath airplane design because it helped make sport flying affordable for many people. Service was simple and economical because parts were cheap and easy to obtain throughout the country.
Credit Line
Gift of Eugene E. Stegall
Date
1930
Inventory Number
A19730133000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Dimensions
Length 64.1 cm (25.25 in.), Width 36.8 cm (14.5 in.), Height 61 cm (24.0 in.)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Location
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
Hangar
Boeing Aviation Hangar
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19730133000