Fairbanks Morse 20hp diesel help

[Dave V.]

I recentley purchased a Fairbanks Morse 20 hp diesel engine. I have completely struck out with my attempts to get info. Please help!!
The brass tag on the engine says:

Fairbanks Morse Diesel
48 BS 3 1/2 2 Cyl
H.P.20 R.P.M.1800
Engine No. F 121269

[ListerDiesel]

Listed in the American Diesel Engine Catalog, Volume 14 for 1949, the 48 series was available in 1, 2, 3 or 6 cylinders (no 4-cylinder was made apparently) about 1355lbs dry weight for an industrial 2-cylinder unit. The single cylinder unit is listed as being air-cooled or watercooled, the others are all water cooled.

Electric start with hand start as an option (!)

Shown as about 6bhp at 1800rpm, per cylinder maximum or 5hp rated per cylinder.

There is also a 45-series which is smaller but similar in looks.

There are pictures of an AC 3kW genset and a marine auxiliary unit with generator and compressor.

Hope this is of some use to you.

Peter

[Dave V.]

Thanks, Peter. The next question is what about parts?

[KidDynamo]

I bought a 48 Series original instructions and parts list awhile ago, just to see what the heck the 48 series was but the very instructive book has not one photo of the engine- just a lot of engineering-style drawings for illustrations. Excellent for explaining service techniques but not great for a bird's-eye view.

While a total of 12 models are listed, all appear to be marine engines with gears and none are of your engine's lited model number or bore size.

All of the models listed in my particular book are either 4" or 4-1/4" bore.

It is called: "Instruction 4800A4 Fairbanks-Morse....One, Two, Three Cylinder, 48 Series Diesel Engines.....Instructions and Parts List for Models 48A4 & 48A4-1/4 ......

If you think my book might help you, let me know.

[Dave V.]

Thanks! I think you're right about the size but if I strike out, I may need to take a look at the book you have. Where did you get your book?

[Dave V.]

I still need help. Thanks!