"Dave,
Okay... that narrows
"Dave,
Okay... that narrows down the type of engine, but it still covers a range in history from about 1895 to 1965.
The early Palmer engines were single cylinder two cycle, low horsepower. Models B, C, and D were popular make'n'break ignition engines. The early engines did not have a reverse gear but could run either direction.
By the early twenties Palmer produced a small four cycle engine called the YT which stood for Yacht Tender. They made a single cylinder and a two cylinder, but most were single. Some had a reverse gear. Some of the YT's have survived in the possesion of collectors.
The engine produced after about 1950 that probably best fits your description are the BH-25 and the PW-27.
The BH-25 puts out 6HP at 2500 rpm. While the PW-27 is 8HP at 2800 rpm. The PW-27 is based on a Wisconsin block. Both could be bought with a reverse gear, and most were sold that way. I have a PW-27 in a 16' Sea Bright Skiff.
On another site we sell some
Palmer catalogs and manual reprints that were reprinted by Dick Day, with his addtional historical and restoration information.
You also could check the classifieds for
Palmer to see engines and parts listed for sale and wanted. You could post your own wanted ad if you know what model you are looking for.
Here is some other
Palmer information and photos.
Regards,
Andrew"