View more photos of Lee Root’s unique scale engines. Click on images to enlarge.
Scale Engines
1/4 Scale Corvette V-8 Engine
A top view of the V-8 shows the carburetor setup. Construction of the scale rocker arms proved to be the greatest challenge. Although, Lee conceded that the carburetor and electronic ignition were also problem areas.
1/4 Scale Corvette V-8 Engine
Lee developed an electronic balancer for this engine. Preliminary tests showed the engine exceeding 10,000 rpm. After several months of tuning, further testing showed that the engine could turn at a little over 18,000 rpm.
1/4 Scale Corvette V-8 Engine
A left side view of Lee’s Corvette engine. The original engine was designed and built in the 1980’s.
1/4 Scale Model A Ford Engine
Lee’s 1/4 scale replica Model A Ford engine, which was machined from 7075 aircraft grade aluminum.
1/4 Scale Model A Ford Engine
Details abound on this remarkable scale engine.
1/4 Scale Model A Ford Engine
DOHC 4 Engine
The “Root Special,” a dual overhead cam (DOHC), 4-cylinder engine measures about 11” long. The water cooled racing engine has a bore of .875”, and a stroke of .750″ for a total displacement of 1.8 cubic inches. It’s fueled by gasoline, utilizes pressure lubrication, and is fired by a spark ignition.
DOHC 4 Engine
The DOHC 4 engine was machined entirely from 7075 aluminum bar stock, and no castings were used. However, some parts were sand or bead blasted to give a cast appearance. The aluminum parts have a clear anodized finish for protection.
DOHC 4 Engine
Lee built the DOHC 4 engine in the 1980’s.
