Document Type: Textbook (Technical). Purpose: Training & Education. Authority: Author Expertise. Series: 4th book in Drake's Aircraft Mechanic Series

Scope (from the Preface): "For many years man was hindered in his conquest of air by the lack of a light, powerful engine to pull his aircraft through the air. It was not until the Wright Brothers built their great four cylinder gasoline engine, which developed approximately 12 horsepower and weighed more than 13 pounds per horsepower, that man's real conquest of the air started.

It is difficult to say whether the airplane has kept pace with the aircraft engine or whether the aircraft engine has kept pace with the developments brought about by the aircraft builders. It has been the aim, however, of engineers, scientists and manufacturers of aircraft engines to continually better their product. Under no circumstances could the airplane exceed the capabilities of the aircraft engine. It is a long step from the original engine of the Wright Brothers to the new 28 cylinder, four row radial engines developing several thousand horsepower and the jet engines which carry man through the air faster than he has ever travelled before.

This book is written for the layman, teacher and the airplane mechanic, to explain the fundamentals of structure and the theory and operation of aircraft engines. While it is impossible to treat in detail every type of aircraft engine in a book of this scope, it is believed that the fundamental principles, modern construction methods and theory of engine operation given in this book can be applied profitably by the layman and the aircraft mechanic. This book should furnish all material necessary in the way of theory to qualify a person for the Civil Aeronautics Administration's aircraft engine mechanic certificate. It should meet text requirements for formal classes studying Aircraft Engines.

Much information is contained on metals and alloys used in aircraft engines including jet engines. Though this book has been definitely designed for use as a classroom text it can be used to good advantage for reference as a practical manual and guide to the mechanic in the field. It is designed for use in College Vocational Courses, Trade Schools, Junior Colleges, High Schools, Aviation Ground Schools and Technical Institutes.

Perhaps the most outstanding feature is the non-technical, simple language in which it is written. The author has avoided the use of unnecessary formulas, graphs, confusing tables, obscure footnotes and other material which cannot be clearly understood by everyone. Particular attention has been given in this text to the theory underlying the successful operation of the aircraft engine.."

Contents (chapters from the Table of Contents): "I Introduction II Fundamentals of Internal Combustion Engines III Metals and Alloys Used in Aircraft Engines IV Glossary of Terms Used in Aircraft Engines V Types of Engines VI Cylinders VII Piston Assembly VIII Crankshafts IX Crankcases X Valves and Cams XI Electrical Fundamentals XII Ignition Systems XIII Fuel and Fuel Systems XIV Carburetors and Superchargers XV Lubricants and Lubricating Systems XVI Propeller Fundamentals" XVII Controllable-Pitch Propellers XVIII Engine Installation and Cooling Systems XIX Engine Instruments XX Starting and Starting Systems XXI Engine Theory and Operation XXII Jet Propulsion Index