HCI's plans don't go into detail about a radial's external components. Looking at proven design details used in radials gives one a starting point in the decision making process. There are also some internal design attributes to other engines that will help one appreciate the simplicity of HCI's design. Who knows, maybe some of us who are building our own may incorporate the features shown in these pictures.
Most of us will install HCI's engine in planes that exceed 70 mph. The internal design of your cowling will play a major role in drag minimization. Here's a T-6 With the engine removed. All that's left is the engine mounting ring (see rubbers) and cowl baffling.
Note: This engine mount absorbs vibration soley by the rubber mounts. There is no attempt to achieve "decoupling" as with the mount shown below.
The Taylor Browne "Dynamic Suspension" is very effective at reducing the transmission of vibratory forces. (Picture below this one) Jack says that his engine is balanced well enough and does not need the Taylor Browne type mount. Reportedly his 5 cylinder radial runs smoother than a Coninental A-65. It's just a thought to keep in mind if your engine shakes too much for your liking.
Tom Reilly's museum in Kissimee Florida is always restoring WWII planes. Currently they're working on a Corsair, FW-190 and a B-17.
At any given moment there are radial engines lying about in various stages of assembly. On this field trip I hit the motherload!
One of their mechanics after hearing of my interest in radials gave me a call as they were tearing down a Focke Wulf engine. He also showed me a R-2600 and several other goodies that may be of interest to radial enthusiasts. Talking to another worker allowed me to glean information about good exhaust connection design and other things. Some of these things will be covered on the next page. The big picture below gives a glimpse of the next page.
Note the simple internal oil plumbing and use of a small ball bearing on the cam gears. The bearing was mainly used for locating the gear as the gear rides on a post with a bronze bushing. The cam ring/gear also rides on a bronze bushing.
