Bison provides ignition for the Spirit of Glen Ellyn

10/1/2002 - The Spirit of Glen Ellyn is being constructed as an exact replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer.

The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry and the National Geographic Society sponsor the plane. Bison Gear and Engineering is providing several key components of the ignition and timing system for the replica engine.

Bison Engineer, Brent Crossley has worked closely with Packer Engineering in the construction of the engine from authentic Smithsonian prints. Brent delivered three sets of gears for the project earlier this month. One set for the actual replica, one for backup, and another for use in a cutaway replica for the museum. “It is a really great project to be involved with,” said Brent Crossley, who continues to volunteer on weekends.

Bison Gear & Engineering is also constructing to print the armature and magneto assembly. Edmund Henke of Bison’s motor division is working on that project.

The Wright Redux Association is a not-for-profit volunteer association dedicated to the construction and flying of the 1903 Wright Flyer. Bison Gear & Engineering is proud to be a key contributor to the Spirit of Glen Ellyn. The goal of the group is to launch the plane from the lawn of the Museum of Science an Industry on December 17, 2003.