Hoglet - how hard to build?

I am thinking of a new project and the twin cylinder Hoglet built from stock has caught my eye. For anyone with experience building this engine can they say how tricky it was to build?

I have a 5 1/2 lathe plus CNC milling machine and a smaller CNC lathe. I have built a Wyvern IC engine from castings (still not got it to run) and various other smaller items so I am not a total beginner, but don't want to take on anything too difficult or long winded.

It looks like the plans are available from back issues of Model Engine Builder magazine, can they be purchased from elsewhere in a bettrer format?

I would say easier than the Wyvern, I did mine before I had the CNC which will make it easier still.

Back issues are the only source and come as PDFs, ideally you want to be able to print on A3 as that was the original format but you can use A4 with a bit of selecting areas to avoid cutting items in half. The drawings are good.

Thanks Jason, that is encouraging. I will purchase the back issues and have a look.

As far as I was concerned there are no problems in machining any of the components. The issue seems to be getting the system of fastening the crankshafts and crank pin to the crank webs to hold well enough for the engine to run consistently.

Rod

I built one which was the first IC engine I had attempted. Having built maninly clocks and stationary steam engines before, it did present a few new machinging challenges, but I learnt a lot building it and it now runs very nicely with a genuine Harley Davidson engine note. Making the cam shaft was new to me and the cylinder heads required care to get right as well, but nothing that isn't possible with a basic lathe and manual milling machine.

The nice thing about the Hoglet is that it is a visually very interesting engine that is guaranteed to attract attention.

Edited By lfoggy on 07/06/2023 20:13:55

I have ordered the back issues now, so looking forward to it

Have a look at the recent thread on here titled "Rod's Hoglet" for an idea of what is involved. Looks to me like you would be able to do it if you have already made a Wyvern etc, There are build threads on several other model engine forums too.

There is also an excellent series of videos by Andrew Whale on Youtube that document his Hoglet build:

Thanks for sending that - another Yorkshireman and another Andy

A more general question - the plans specify 2024 Aluminium alloy for the piston rods and 6061 Aluminium alloy for the crankcase. I have some 6062 stock - am I likely to run into problems using what I have?

Andy

The 2024 is a stronger allow so less likely to stretch around the big ends. There is also some copper contend which makes it a better wearing alloy so best to stick with that for the conrods

You will actually find 2014 is the most commonly available in the UK which is the old HE15. M-Machine should have some in rectangle though cutting from round stock can be cheaper

6082 T6 will be fine for the frame and cam box etc

L168 is the same as 2014 and is a high strength copper bearing aluminium alloy that I use for con rods. This guy on Ebay **LINK** usually has an offcut of suitable size at reasonable price.

HTH,

Rod

Edited By Roderick Jenkins on 13/06/2023 17:08:25

Many thanks