Old Engines with Rob Hall at the Octagon Barn Fall Family Days 2023

I joined Rob Hall, KC8SDL, at the Fall Family Days at the Thumb Octagon Barn Agricultural Museum in Gagetown, Michigan. We discussed his throttle-governed Z engines and how to run them, and we go on a short tour of the festival as well.

Rob's engines are:
Fairbanks-Morse 6HP Model Z from 1925
Fairbanks-Morse 3HP Model Z, from 1916
Fairbanks-Morse 1.5HP Model Z, from 1920

The 6HP was bought in 2015 from the Caro Engine Club and had freeze damage. However with the help of Dale Thompson and Bob Whitney it was repaired and brought back to life.

Rob purchased the 1.5 HP Model Z in Crowne Point, Indiana. This engine needed an ignition system, with Dale's help he retrofitted a single cylinder Wisconsin magneto, and installed new piston rings.

Rob traded for the 3HP Model Z which also needed an ignition system and exhaust. The fuel pump needs to be rebuilt which is why it was not run this year.

Rob regularly exhibits his engines at festivals and shows throughout the year in Michigan, if you happen to see him, stop and say hi!