Hawker Cygnet

Hi Andy,

Any chance you would like to post your views on how she flies.

Thanks

Ken

ps. seems I was half right on the engine.

😮 My apologies on the mistaken (pilot) identity. And spelling of your name.

John

Hawker Cygnet G-CAMM

I can confirm that the engine fitted is a MOSLER MM CB-35. Essentially, it’s two VW cylinders on a different crankcase.

The first flights were carried out by John Lewis (pictured) and not myself as stated above. I completed the test programme following John’s first flights.

I did fly two up with Rob Millinship in the front, and Rob later flew with Don Cashmore in the front.

The aircraft is currently owned and based at the Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden.

Andy Sephton

Thanks for the info on the engine, I just had it in mind it was a VW conversion.

I have found the pics I took at the PFA rally in the 90’s, I am not sure if its the one Don did or note, no doubt someone will know. I was very impressed at the time on the construction a fantastic job.Hopefully it will post ok as its my first attempt at a pic posting.

A very pretty little aeroplane. I have always wonderd how you get into the front cockpit and could she even be flown two up?

Correct, it is a Mosler MM CB-35.:)

Hi ,I am pretty sure the engine used in Don Cashmore`s Hawker Cygnet is a Mosler not a half V.W engine.

I was fortunate to be present when Don Cashmore’s Cygnet did it’s first hops in the hands of Andy Sefton at Hucknall.

John

I think the engine in the replica at Shuttleworth uses a 1/2 VW conversion, what you basicaly do is cut a VW beetle engine in half to make it a twin cylinder which looks like the Cherub. I dont suppose its a simple as that but drawings are available for the conversion. Nothing pops up on a Google search for drawings, perhaps the lads at old Warden would know.

I have just had a thought (must stop doing that) I will ask at the PFA, now called the LAA as they cleared the aeroplane so they must know.

Beautiful little aeroplane. Built very light in its day and it would be interesting to see if it was possible to lighten it further to the Single Seat Deregulated category today. It falls into the microlight category anyway.
I understand the real challenge is to lay hands on a Bristol Cherub. All those in existance, and I believe there are a few out of the thirty odd built, are jealously guarded.
Ah biplane……

Hi Ken, Have you looked at the aviation section on eBay? Almost on a daily basis there are plans for aircraft listed. Cygnets you may need a sprinkling of luck but it’s worth looking.

Regards

Gavin