My new project

I thought you "HP gearheads" would get a kick out of my next project. I've been looking for a appropriate engine for a 1919 work launch I plan on restoring. I got it without a engine about 4 years ago, have been looking for a engine and just won this one off ebay. The launch did have a 4 cylinder crank start/magneto ignition engine in it when new so this one is perfect.






It's a Universal "Flexifour". The exact year is unknown but thought to be mid to late 20's. Early versions were rated at 20 HP @ 2000 RPM!!!

All I need to dig up is a Bosch or Fairbanks-Morse magneto and a Zenith 61M carb. Not a problem because they are around. Of course then the engine will need some work!!! I'm in no hurry as the boat doesn't float ether!!

Pete,

and I get bored with my 100 hp interceptor..

Pretty cool.. where was the engine located?

and, yeah, would like to see some pics of the launch..

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Thats a nice old piece there Pete.We have something similar in a home made (I guess) farm tractor.I love the old simple stuff.

Munday

The Lake wrote: . . . looking forward to seeing the restore at Green Lake next year Pete. :) And, obviously I'm not a gear head, I thought you were posting a picture of a 1919 anchor. Chuck

Come on Chuck... An anchor would actually sink faster than this motor ever thought about going!

Pete.
Not sure if you Know Art Cozier from Correct Craft or not. But he is a antique motor freak and goes to a lot of ,you might give him a heads up anytime you are looking for parts for these real old motors as he may have solutions.

Chuck,
The launch and engine restore are actually a retirement project so it may take a few years. Of course my retirement may come earlier than expected if I continue to get rubber pay checks. It's been 3 in the last couple of months. Even one of the replacement checks bounced!!!

The Atom will be back at green Lake next year if all goes as planned.

John,
Looks like the rings are eye bolts screwed into the head (it's not the valve cover - remember it's a flat head engine) probably for pulling it out of whatever boat it was in.

Jody,
Sorry I don't know Art but he would be going to the old engine shows whereas I make it to the old boat shows. Thanks for the heads up though.   I just looked to see if he was a ACBS member and didn't find him listed.

Now it's hard to say what I'll find when I open up the engine but it may be as simple as a cylinder hone/rings, valve grind and repour the mains/rod bearings. (they would be poured babbitt back then) Gaskets need to be made unless I get real lucky!! I'll pull the head as soon as I get it so our fab division can lazer cut me a copper head gasket while I'm still working!!!! Seals? Who knows but there's a good chance that CR still makes one that would work.