Smithsonian Motor Works Engine Model Instructions

The Smithsonian was created in the 1800s after James Smithson, a British scientist, left his estate "to the United States of America, to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men." Since then, the Smithsonian has become a leader in science-based toys and hobbies including kit No. 12076, the "Motor Works." With this kit, hobbyists can build a working model of a four-stroke engine.

About The Motor Works Kit

Smithsonian Science Kit No. 12076 is the Motor Works. Hobbyists can build a bench scale model of a four-stroke engine. Using the instructions, the builder identifies all the components of the engine, matches the pieces to their functions and assembles the engine. The instructions also include useful tips on how to be an effective and successful model builder.

Educational Benefits

The instruction manual for the Motor Works kit is more than a set of assembly instructions. The 20-page manual also teaches how an engine works with sections titled: heat, convection, lubrication and radiators, as well as an introduction to the internal combustion process. Once assembled, the spark plugs fire in the correct sequence to drive the mechanisms inside the see-through model case.

What The Motor Works Kit Doesn't Do

The Motor Works kit is a representation of a four-stroke engine; it is not a functional engine. The kit does not include -- nor can the hobbyist add -- filters, coolants, oil, fuel, pumps, alternator or a starter.

References

• Smithsonian: History
• The Smithsonian Store: Products Inspired by the Smithsonian
• Smithsonian Store: Science Kit Instructions