In a daring and unexpected venture, the team at Dale’s Wheels Through Time Museum in North Carolina decided to breathe life into a relic from the past: a 1920s airplane powered by a Harley-Davidson engine. This unique project captured the imagination of aviation enthusiasts and vintage motorcycle lovers alike. Their efforts were captured on their YouTube channel.
The Plane’s Background
- The airplane, built in 1927, features a Harley-Davidson J-series engine.
- A young man, about 20 years old at the time, constructed this custom-built plane.
- It had been on display at the museum for decades, but the team decided to take it out of the garage and see if it could still fly.
Condition and Assembly
- The plane had been sitting on a table in the garage, and there was skepticism about whether it would work.
- After disassembling the wings, they managed to bring it out and reassemble it.
- The crew was impressed by its incredible condition.
Engine Start-Up
Routine maintenance was performed on the engine, including an oil change and electrical checks. With bated breath, they turned the ignition key. The propeller began to rotate—an achievement in itself. The sound of the vintage engine coming to life echoed through the museum. Although they didn’t attempt full flight, the successful start-up was a testament to the craftsmanship of the past.
The makeshift runway was ready. The team pushed the airplane forward, and to their delight, it responded. The wheels turned, and the plane taxied under its own power. It may not have soared into the sky, but the fact that it moved was a victory. The contrast with a grounded 747 missing its engines was stark.
While the museum’s name is “Wheels Through Time” this airplane adventure certainly added some “wings” to their repertoire.
The 1920s Harley-Davidson powered airplane proved that even after all those years, it still had some life left in it.