I’d like to offer some information about a striking new model, the Quarter Scale replica of a 10 HP Lightning New Model Balanced Portable Engine.

The Kansas City Hay Press Co., made horsepower hay presses (stationary bailers) since 1882, called “Lightning Hay Presses.” As engines became known, around 1900 they decided to develop their own engine to belt drive their hay press. This engine was called “Lightning New Model Balanced Engine for Gas or Gasoline” and was of a most unusual design.

“With an open end cylinder and operating two pistons, moving simultaneously in opposite directions, and, at any given instant, always equi-distant from the center of the cylinder, it is clear the explosion energy would be received equally, share and share alike, by the two pistons, thus avoiding concussion or engine vibration."

More than 10 years ago, Marvin Hedberg and Roland Morrison collaborated with the objective of building a few of these marvelous engines. A prototype was completed several years ago, but it has taken a long time to develop this model to the level of perfection we expect from a Morrison and Marvin project.

This engine was designed so the cart is also the engine base. The wheels have been accurately reproduced and each wheel is fabricated from 38 pieces. The castings are produced by “lost wax” process with most being in cast iron. Superb quality is the watchword and no effort has been spared to make this engine an exact Quarter Scale replica.

Initally, ten (10) will be constructed and offered for sale as running engines. After that, a “VERY FEW” extra castings and machined parts will be made for those model machinists wanting to build the ultimate project.