Many engines sought to replace the ubiquitous Curtiss OX-5, many of which remained following World War I. Kinner 5-cylinder radials were rugged, durable, reliable, and economical, but not considered elegant at any time during this company’s existence, and apparently never cowled. First introduced in 1927, they were used in military biplane aircraft as well as Kinner’s own monoplane.

The Kinner R-5, Series 2 engine was certificated in December 1935. A principal R-5 design change from previous Kinner engines was a greatly increased cooling area resulting from longer and more closely spaced fins on the cylinder heads.

This military version of the engine, the R-540-1, powered the Ryan PT-22 and PT-22A primary trainer aircraft. Other R-540 series engine models powered aircraft such as the Stearman PT-9 and Verville PT-10 as well as the Sikorsky H-4 helicopter. The firm rapidly declined from 1945.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date Circa 1942 Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary Manufacturer Kinner Motors Incorporated
 Physical Description Type: Reciprocating, 5 cylinders, radial, air cooled Power rating: 119 kW (160 hp) at 1,850 rpm Displacement: 8.85 L (540 cu in.) Bore and Stroke: 127 mm (5.0 in.) x 140 mm (5.5 in.) Weight: 160 kg (353 lb) Dimensions Diameter 114.3 cm (45 in.), Length 102.9 cm (40.5 in.)
 Materials Aluminum
Steel
Paint
Copper Alloy
Natural Fabric
Rubber
Cadmium Plating
Adhesive
Paper
Ink
 Inventory Number A19680480000 Credit Line Exchange with Kenneth L. Stoltzfus Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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