This miniature 7-cylinder radial engine was designed and built by Lee Root, circa 1975. (Courtesy of Margarita and Al Root, and Rhetta and John Hopfauf.) Lee Root’s engines have inspired enthusiasts, hobbyists and miniature engine builders throughout the world. Although parts of his engines appear to be castings, they were machined entirely from bar stock. Root’s 7-cylinder radial was ahead of its time and more advanced than most miniature engines made today.
Root is perhaps best known for his custom designed miniature Stromberg-type carburetor with an automatic choke and accelerator pump, a dry sump lubrication system and an electric fuel pump.