_Will Start Construction at Once on New Three Story Factory to Handle
Work_
[From _Aviation_, March 2, 1929, vol. 26, no. 10]
DETROIT, MICH.--Indications that the Diesel type airplane engine,
recently developed by Capt. L. M. Woolson, chief aeronautical engineer
of the Packard Motor Car Co., will become a commercial reality and
possibly a revolutionary factor in airplane engine design, is seen here
in the announcement of the concern that it will begin construction
immediately of a $650,000 plant to produce the engines in large quantity
for the commercial market.
The new plant, according to the announcement by Hugh J. Ferry, treasurer
of the Packard firm, will be completed and in operation within five
weeks. Between 600 and 700 men will be employed and, according to
expectations, production will be carried on at the rate of about 500
Diesel engines per month by July.
The Packard Diesel was announced first in October, following experiments
covering several years. The original engine was placed in a
Stinson-Detroiter, which was flown successfully by Captain Woolson and
Walter Lees, Packard pilot. Since that time Captain Woolson has built
four of the engines, all of 200 hp. capacity, developing 1 hp. for every
2 lb. of weight.
The Diesel, installed on the Stinson-Detroiter, it was said, now has had
200 hr. flying time, and gives not the slightest indication that it will
need an overhauling for some time. The other three engines have been
tested on the block in the company's research plant.
It is claimed by the builders that the Packard Diesel will produce a
saving of about 20 per cent. in fuel consumption as compared with
engines using gasoline. It is claimed further that the Diesel will
prove far more reliable in construction than any airplane engine yet
developed. Evidence of this, it was pointed out, is seen in the
performance of the initial Diesel.