Exposed Engine: 1913 Scripps-Booth Rocket Cyclecar

Written by
Matt Anderson
Published
2/13/2017
Take a look under the hood at the motorcycle engine powering our 1913 Scripps-Booth Rocket Cyclecar prototype, on exhibit in Henry Ford Museum.

Exposed Engine: 1913 Scripps-Booth Rocket Cyclecar

Written by
Matt Anderson
Published
2/13/2017
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1913 Scripps-Booth Rocket
V-2 cylinder engine, air-cooled, 35 cubic inches displacement, 10 horsepower

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Inexpensive cyclecars, as the name suggests, often used motorcycle engines like the V-2 in this Scripps-Booth prototype. The air-cooled motor meant there was no need for water or a radiator, while the splash lubrication system eliminated the necessity for an oil pump. The prototype’s engine is mounted with its crankshaft parallel to the rear axle, simplifying the belt connections between transmission and wheels.


Matt Anderson is Curator of Transportation at The Henry Ford.
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