Brings to mind the old Scott Squirrell motorcycle. This water cooled two stroke twin would happily fire up rotating the wrong way and leave you with four reverse and no forward gears.

And there is the rub – I’ve taken slight liberties with Mike’s post to show the important words. Because a two-stroke has no valves, merely fixed ports in the cylinder walls, it is capable of running in either direction – the port is always there, whichever way the engine turns (in fact, I’ve seen a 2-stroke diesel stationary engine that could be set to rock backwards and forwards!).

I’m intrigued by James reference to aero-engines capable of this – I wasn’t aware of any two-stroke ones, though you can make a lighter and simpler 2-stroke than you can a 4-stroke. Or maybe rotary/radial engines are more capable or running back’ards than an inline?

Anyway, those dastardly huns…

Adrian

Is there any of these in existence?

Nothing near a complete one. There is a nose section on display at Yeovilton, and substantial wreckage in store there as well. I’ve had a quick Google, but haven’t found good pics – you might have more luck than me.

So, in short, possibly enough wreckage for a composite – one day!

Adrian

That’s the one! Wouldn’t that cause a stir driving past Heathrow…

Adrian

For more info, try looking out second hand copies of “Airborne”, a compilation of the autobiographical articles he wrote for Pilot magazine amongst others, which includes the tale related by Pogno, and also recounts the Zlin wing-folding incident in detail. I have read, and re-read my copy many times.

Paul F

Thanks for the heads-up, Paul. One to order from the Bodleian when I have a quiet day, I think!

Adrian