2-839-547 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

The Model 4X engine was built by the Roberts Motor Company of Sandusky, Ohio. An important design objective was light weight, which was achieved through the extensive use of aluminum and magnesium alloys in the cylinders and crankcase, and a hollow crankshaft. Also like all Roberts engines it operated on a two-stroke cycle operation to reduce parts count. Between 1911 and 1912, Roberts engines were used by many noted exhibition pilots, and more Roberts engines were said to be built than by Hall-Scott and Curtiss combined during this period. This engine artifact was manufactured about 1911 and powered a Curtiss-type, float-equipped aircraft (hydroplane) built by Harry H. Ford. Mr. Ford was a self-taught pilot and did most of his flying between 1912 and 1913 in the area of the Bridgeport, Connecticut harbor.