#20 • 1957 Tecumseh Dragonfly H-81 Air-Thrust Outboard

Part of Classic Outboard Auction (timed auction by Estate Online Auctions)

Status: Sold

Category: Outboard Motors

1957 Tecumseh Dragonfly H-81 Air-Thrust Outboard An all- season cast metal outboard made to push a boat on ice as well as water, Restored working condition, 45"Η x 20"L x 36"W. Tecumseh Dragonfly 81 engine typically has a displacement of around 8.1 cubic inches, which translates to roughly 5 horsepower, with a single cylinder, air-cooled design; Dragonfly outboards, manufactured by the Robertson-Hedges Company in Kansas City, Missouri, were produced from the mid-1950s to the late 1960s. These air-drive outboards, powered by air-cooled Power Products motors, were available in 2, 4, and 5 horsepower variants. While the concept of an air-drive outboard may seem logical, the practical implementation proved to be less than ideal. Many owners found that these motors were better suited for unconventional uses, such as providing ventilation in barns during hot summer days. Despite their limitations, Dragonfly outboards were considered "heavy-duty" by Tecumseh standards, featuring roller bearings on the crankshaft.These motors were designed to operate at full RPM for extended periods.