Although Rock Island had a long history with Alamo for stationary engines, the 30’s were taking their toll. Large, heavy low horsepower stationary engines were fast disappearing  in favor of electric motors or affordable tractor power. Alamo was on the ropes facing bankruptcy and RIPC was struggling.

 

With slow sales of tractors, Rock Island had plenty of engines available so began experimenting with multi cylinder stationary power units. According to a notation by  Cornelius placing production as 1934, Rock Island produced four sizes:

 

18 hp weighing 1455lbs

25 hp weighing 1800lbs

30 hp weighing 1955lbs

40 hp weighing 1975lbs

 

A few examples of these still exist, I have knowledge of two such power units but do not have permission to post pictures of them. One is identified as being based on a Waukesha CS4J like a later G2. A guess would put that as the 25hp unit. A possibility for the 30 and 40 units would be the VIK and CHS10 used on the H5 and H22, but this is purely speculation. The 18hp unit is a mystery, although the Waukesha XAH that might have been on the No.1 in development could be a candidate. If so it was likely underrated for belt hp. Supposed engines shipped however, don’t bear out these engines. A small number of earlier GU engines were shipped that are unaccounted for in produc

 

Advertising post 1930 is rare so I am still looking for any information regarding these power units.

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Not an actual power unit.