The Hesse Hornet was an air compressor manufactured by the Hess Manufacturing Company in the late 1940s(?). The compressor used a CJ-2A engine to run, but only pistons 1 & 4. The middle two pistons were used to compress air. Keith recently bought one of these and was going to part it out, but changed his mind and now wants to restore it. However, there isn’t much online about it. Below are the links we know about it so far. If you know of any additional info, please add it to the comments.
http://www.cj-3a.com/hesse_hornet_air_compressor.htm
http://www.thecj2apage.com/forums/never-know-what-you-may-find_topic21663.html
http://www.g503.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=129&t=181482
Here is a link to Keith’s pics:
I have some of one. i believe mine has a 3a industrial motor. looks like stainless valves in center pistons. Head is gone. any interest it’s for sale. dave
Dave, how can I get in touch with you. Where are you located. Thanks, Keith
live in mora mn. fast4Franz3s@q.com or 320-223-2488
email sent. I wish you were located closer to me! Thanks, KeithG.
I have one of these units, the Engine/compressor had had a fresh rebuild then set up for several years.
I got it running fairly well (carb likely dried out), didn’t get the governor set exact, but that sucker can really pump some air and quick.
I would like to sell it or at lease get the necessary components to convert it back to a working 4cyl engine.
The 4cyl engine is worth more to me than the air compressor
Hi Robert,
If you want to send me pics and more info, I will post your compressor for sale. Email me at d@ewillys.com.
– Dave
Hey guys , Im posting on this old post to see if anyone has any parts for one of these Hesse Hornet Units. Im looking specifically for a Head Gasket for one and anything else someone might have. Any help would be greatly appreciated, you can reach me at Willysted@charter.net
Thanks for any leads in advance
Ted
Ted, the last I’ve heard which has been a while but they do not make them anymore. I have heard that you can use a regular jead gasket but maybe someone can chime in and clarify. Hope this helps. I don’t have are know of anyone having any parts. I have been looking for the dipstick which is a shorter version than for a stock jeep engine because of the shallower oil pan. Feel free to email me if you need any info and I’ll be glad to share anything I have. Keith G.