The Kalfus designed 30cc (.18ci) tether boat engine was designed and built by Ed Kalfus, of MI, circa 1940. The engine is 9”-long, 4.5”-wide, 7”-high, and weighs 4 lbs. 6 oz. Ed Kalfus, Barney Kiewicz, F. Schneider, and Joe Sparr were the main organizers of the International Model Power Boat Association in 1949; an organization still in existence today. Ed was a pioneer in model boat racing and in the 1950’s was one of the first tether boat racers to break 100 miles per hour with his custom-built engines and tether boats. He switched to radio-control boats in the 60’s and became the first to break 60 miles per hour in RC boats and he held the F Hydro record for several years. This 30cc air-cooled engine burns methanol on glow ignition and incorporates a cylinder that can be rotated and locked in several positions up to 90 degrees right or left of center.  

Exhibit added: August 31, 2013 - Last modified: March 29, 2023

Presented by The Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship