 |
|
Curtiss HS 2L - Falcon Propellers |
Markings: S.E. 5090 LH N8508 8'4" x 8' 8.5" |
Comments: This very commonly found propeller was actually only half of a 4-blade
combination that was used on the Curtiss HS 2 L flying boat during WW1 and several years beyond. Two propellers were stacked
on top of each other (note the additional hole on the bolt hole circle used
for an alignment pin) to make the 4 blade pusher propeller that was used on the
Liberty 375 HP engine. The tips are covered in fabric in addition to the
copper sheathing, although in this propeller the fabric is unpainted and difficult
to see in the photo. Several manufacturers, including Falcon, Matthews
Brothers, Hartzell, Lang, Unit Construction, Paragon and probably others were
involved in their production, and many varieties seem to turn up today.
Variations in the pitch are reflected in the last two digits of the drawing number,
SE5090, SE5050, etc. An excellent example of this propeller and the aircraft it powered can be seen at
the Canadian Aviation Museum in Ottawa. Wood: Mahogany Length: 8' 4" |
c. 1918 |
Note: This propeller has moderate delaminaing along the glue joints, as seen
in the pictures above and to the right. |
