The Lycoming O-145-B2 (rated 65hp at 2550 rpm) was designed and built by the Lycoming Aviation Engines Company in Williamsport, Pennsylvania as part of their direct drive, air-cooled O-145 engine series in the late 1930s. The engine is has a four-cylinder, horizontally-opposed layout with a displacement of 144.4 cu. in. with dual magnetos. The engine is unusual in that the cylinders are integral to the crank case.
Used on a number of light aircraft in the 1930s including: Aeronca Chief, Piper J-3L Cub, Piper PA-15 Vagabond, Luscombe 8B, Taylorcraft BL-12 and Porterfield LP-65.
This engine was restored in 2020 to running condition by the students of instructor Paul Agaliotis in Gavilan College’s Aviation Maintenance Department.
| Engine Name | Lycoming O-145-B2 |
|---|---|
| Manufactured by | Lycoming Aviation Engines Company |
| Cylinder Configuration | horizontally-opposed |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Bore (inches) | 3.625 |
| Stroke (inches) | 3.5 |
| Displacement (cubic inches) | 144.4 |
| Horsepower | 65hp @ 2550 rpm |
| Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 |
| Dry Weight (lb) | 163 |
We also have a cutaway example of this type of engine where you can turn the prop and see how it works.
