FUNK MODEL B

1939

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Funk Model B, a two-seat cabin monoplane, originated in 1939 with Akron Aircraft Co. and was subsequently produced by Funk Aircraft Co., continuing production post-World War II.
  • Throughout its history, the aircraft saw engine upgrades from a 65-hp Funk to 75-hp Lycoming and an 85-hp Continental, influencing designations like 75L and B-85C.
  • Its construction features fabric-covered wooden wings and a steel-tube fuselage, with many current owners upgrading the original fabric to Ceconite and adding modern features like hydraulic brakes.
  • With an 85-hp engine, the Model B achieves a top speed of 115 mph, cruises at 100 mph, and offers a range of 350 miles.
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STANDARD DATA: Seats 2. Gross wt. 1,350. Empty wt. 890. Fuel capacity 20. Engine 75-hp, Lycoming or 85-hp, Continental.
PERFORMANCE: (85-hp). Top mph 115. Cruise mph 100. Stall mph 37. Initial climb rate 800. Range 350. Ceiling 15,000. Takeoff run 348.

Originally produced by Akron Aircraft Co., the Model B was kept in production by the Funk Aircraft Co. after the latter company replaced Akron in 1941. The two-seat cabin monoplane, first made in 1939, had been equipped with a 65-hp Funk four-cylinder engine but in 1941 featured a 75-hp Lycoming engine and the designation 75L. After World War II, production continued on the Model B, this time with a Continental 85-hp engine and called the B-85C. The Model B has fabric-covered wooden wings and a steel-tube fuselage, also covered with fabric. Many present-day Funk owners have replaced the original fabric with strong Ceconite fabric and added other features such as hydraulic brakes and wheel pants.

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