160 Gnome Selector Switch

[Lyle]

Guys,
My brother and I are looking for the selector switch that controlled the number of cylinders firing on the 160 Gnome. If you've ever heard one in operation with the associated popping and crackling sounds that engine makes, then that was the switch doing its thing. Anyway, it might be simple enough to build one in case it's not safe to use an original owing to age of electrical components--does anyone know of a source for original drawings for it?
TIA,
Lyle

Hello Lyle!

No less a pilot than Frank Tallman, who incindentally was very fond of the Gnome 160, ran his Nieuport 28 without the selector to reduce the risk of fire.

Dick King who flew the Rhinebeck 28 with a 160 Gnome said that he could never find a setting on the selector that didn't feel like it was going to shake the aircraft apart. He ran the Gnome either all or nothing, using mixture to control the power output somewhat.

Perhaps a non-functional switch in the cockpit would be worth looking into.

[Lyle]

Hi Mike!
Thanks for the info about Tallman's experience running the Gnome...I remember his comments in his book FLYING THE OLD PLANES about how that distinct sound of the engine was the signal for the fire brigade to get ready to put out the inevitable flames! *;D * However, the Rhinebeck Sopwith Camel has a Gnome with selector switch, and it's used quite often, both on the ground and in the air with no appparent problems.
One major problem the Gnome had was cracking of the gas line with attendant leaking all over the place; I think Eddie Rickenbacker had it happen on his Nieuport 28. *There's something to be said about modern metallurgy in matters like that...
Cheerio,
Lyle