Jerry E. Howell Model Project Plans & Kits
Outpost Enterprises, LTD - 695 Godfrey Road - Hollansburg - Ohio 45332 - USA

(World Wide Supplier of Quality Model Project Plans & Kits Since 1992)

Back

Sideshaft Vacuum Engine

These are also known by some as "Fire Eaters" or "Flame Suckers" but technically, they are "Atmospheric" engines.

My unique valve mechanism operates from an oscillating side shaft. The engine is shown powered by one of my Mini Propane Burners (a seperate plans set) at the front of the engine. You can run yours with an alcohol lamp if you like. A belt driven fan provides some air cooling, it also adds considerable interest to the engine. There is no ignition or carburetor to cause problems. The engine can operate from 200 RPM up to 3,000 RPM or more! As hot-air engines - not stirling cycle - they are unusual in that they make a popping sound not unlike an internal combustion engine.

I built this engine 25 years ago. It is easy to build, but it is small and has some small parts in it. For a larger more refined "atmospheric" engine, see the "4-in-1" Vacuum Engine below.

The plans set consists of 4 sheets of drawings and 1 sheet of construction and assembly notes.

Specifications:

Flywheel Diameter: 2-3/8" Cylinder Bore: .610" Piston Stroke: 7/8" Overall Length: 4-1/2"

Sideshaft Vacuum Engine Plans Set - $16.00
(Use the Project Plans Order Form to place an order. Otherwise, see the "How To Order" page)

---

Graphite & Bearings Kit

(1) Graphite rod to make piston
(2) 3/16" ID x 3/8" OD x 1/8" thick precision ball bearings

Sideshaft Engine Graphite & Bearings Kit $15.00
(Use the Kits & Parts Order Form to place an order. Otherwise, see the "How To Order" page)

Back

© Copyright 1998 - 2007 Jerry E. Howell - All rights reserved