The Warner Scarab and Super Scarab series represent some of the most reliable and widely used small radial engines from the Golden Age of Flight through WWII. This structured collection brings together service handbooks, parts catalogs, operational instructions, and technical tips covering the entire Scarab family from the original 110 hp S-50 through the 200 hp Super Scarab 185 helicopter variant.
Definitive Collection with Free Lifetime Updates: This is a living collection that we continuously expand and refine. As we acquire additional Warner Scarab documentation, technical bulletins, or variant-specific materials, we update this collection and provide free lifetime updates to all purchasers. Your one-time purchase guarantees access to all future additions and improvements to this collection.
Historical Note
The Warner Scarab first ran in November 1927 and entered production in 1928 as a modern, reliable replacement for surplus WWI engines like the Curtiss OX-5. Developed by Warner Aircraft Corporation of Detroit, Michigan, the Scarab quickly became one of the most trusted powerplants of the Golden Age of aviation. The original Scarab S-50 produced 110-125 hp from seven air-cooled cylinders, while the scaled-down five-cylinder Scarab Junior delivered 90 hp for lighter aircraft.
As aircraft performance demands increased, Warner developed the Super Scarab series with increased bore and compression ratios. The Super Scarab SS-50 produced 145 hp, the Super Scarab 165 delivered 165 hp, and the largest variant—the Super Scarab 185 (SS-50A)—generated 185-200 hp for takeoff. This final variant proved instrumental in enabling the birth of production helicopters, powering the Sikorsky R-4, the world's first production helicopter.
During WWII, Warner engines powered thousands of military utility and trainer aircraft including the Fairchild UC-61 Forwarder, Cessna UC-94, Harlow UC-80, and the Australian CA-6 Wackett Trainer. Several thousand Warner engines were produced from 1928 through the early 1940s, with the company later acquired by Clinton Machine Co. in 1950.
In civilian service, the Scarab family became legendary for powering classic light aircraft of the 1930s and 1940s including the Cessna Airmaster, Fairchild 24, Monocoupe 110, Ryan S-C, Stinson Junior, and numerous Waco models. Post-war, Warner engines gained renewed popularity among vintage aircraft restorers and WWI replica builders (particularly Fokker Dr.1 replicas) due to their exceptional reliability, parts availability, and authentic radial configuration.
Today, Warner Scarab and Super Scarab engines continue to power flying Fairchild 24s, Cessna Airmasters, and various WWI replicas, maintaining their reputation as dependable, maintainable powerplants for vintage aviation enthusiasts.
Manuals Included in This Collection
- Warner Scarab Aircraft Engine Instructions for Operations Manual
- Warner Scarab Aircraft Engine Parts Price List Manual
- Warner Super Scarab and Scarab Junior Aircraft Engine Price List and Parts Catalog Manual
- Warner Super Scarab and Scarab Junior Aircraft Engine Handbook Manual
- Warner Super Scarab SS 50, S50A 145 Hp Aircraft Engine Handbook Manual
- Warner Super Scarab 165 - 185 Aircraft Engine Handbook Manual
- Warner Super Scarab 165 Aircraft Engine Handbook Manual
- Warner Super Scarab Aircraft Engine Parts Catalog Manual
- Warner Scarab & Super Scarab Advertisements and Service Letters
- Warner 145-165 Technical Tips
- Warner 165-185 Technical Tips
- Warner 145-165 Overhaul Tips
This collection provides comprehensive coverage of the entire Warner Scarab family from 1928 through the 1940s, including operational instructions, parts identification, pricing references, variant-specific handbooks, and field-proven technical and overhaul tips. The documentation spans all major variants from the 90 hp Scarab Junior through the 200 hp Super Scarab 185, with particular depth on the popular 145 hp, 165 hp, and 185 hp Super Scarab models.
Engineering Norms and Standards
Warner Scarab engines were certificated under early CAR (Civil Air Regulations) standards and military specifications for utility and trainer aircraft. The Super Scarab 165 featured a 7-cylinder air-cooled radial configuration with 499 cubic inches (8.2 liters) displacement, 4.625 in x 4.25 in bore and stroke, 6.4:1 compression ratio, and dry weight of 333-341 lbs. The engines operated on 73 to 80 octane aviation gasoline and featured direct-drive propeller systems.
Warner engineering practices emphasized simplicity, reliability, and field maintainability. Notable design features included the distinction between "short nose" (SS-50) and "long nose" (SS-50A) crankcase designs, with the latter developed specifically for helicopter applications. The modular design allowed for relatively straightforward overhaul and parts replacement, contributing to the engine's legendary durability and long service life.
Specialized Documentation
Warner engines remain in active service on vintage aircraft, and owners should consult current Airworthiness Directives (ADs) and Service Bulletins from the Warner Engine Company, the current Type Certificate holder. Modern operators may encounter various field modifications and STCs developed over decades of continuous operation, particularly relating to ignition systems, carburetors, and propeller installations.
The technical tips and overhaul guidance included in this collection represent field-proven practices from experienced A&P mechanics and engine rebuilders, offering practical insights for troubleshooting, maintenance, and restoration work.
Where to Find Additional Documentation
Official Support: Warner Engine Company holds the current Type Certificate and can provide current airworthiness information, Service Bulletins, and parts support for active Warner installations.
Historical Archives: The Antique Airplane Association, vintage aircraft forums, and type-specific clubs (Fairchild Club, Cessna Airmaster groups) maintain extensive community knowledge and shared documentation for Warner-powered aircraft.
Specialty Vendors: Online Aviation Library and similar documentation specialists provide organized historical reference materials, while specialized engine overhaul shops offer technical support and parts fabrication services for Warner engines.
Format and Delivery
Instant digital download delivered immediately after purchase. All manuals provided as searchable PDF files optimized for on-screen viewing and printing. Files are organized in a clear folder structure by variant and document type for easy reference. Compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices. Print-friendly formatting allows you to create physical binders for shop or hangar use.
Disclaimer
These materials are provided for historical reference and research purposes only. For current airworthiness requirements, maintenance procedures, and operational limitations, always consult the current Type Certificate holder (Warner Engine Company), applicable Airworthiness Directives, and FAA-approved data. This collection does not constitute approved maintenance data for certified aircraft. All trade names and trademarks remain the property of their respective owners. This digital compilation, structure, indexing and presentation are © Sicuro Publishing.