R.Mikesh, A.Shorzoe Japanese Aircraft, 1910-1941 (Putnam)

Kaishiki No.7 Aeroplane

   Using the experience gained while studying in France, and the successful conversion of the Number 7 Type Mo aircraft, Lt Shigeru Sawada attempted a second modification, this time using a Henri Farman 1914 imported from France in November of that year. He began his conversion work in April 1915 at the Association's factory in Tokorozawa and completed the project the following July. Originally referred to as the Kaishiki A7, it became more commonly called the Kaishiki 7 Reconnaissance Aircraft since that was its designed mission.
   Among the changes was a small amount of dihedral added to the wings as well as slight sweepback to both the upper and lower wings. The most apparent change was the replacement of the Gnome rotary engine for a Curtiss OX-5 with its increase of 30hp. This gave noticeably improved speed, increasing it to 54kt (62mph). Both Capt Oka and Lt Sawada liked the handling characteristics and were the only regular pilots of the No.7, since it was disliked by the others who flew it. Flying came to an end on 25 September, 1915, however, when Lt Iwatomi was piloting the aeroplane and it crashed just north of Tokorozawa Airfield. The fire that followed partially destroyed the aeroplane and Lt Iwatomi was badly injured.

   Single-engine pusher sesquiplane reconnaissance aircraft with crew nacelle. Wooden structure with fabric covering. Tail elevator only. Skid-type undercarriage with dual wheels. Crew of two in open cockpit.
   90-100hp Curtiss OX-5 eight-cylinder vee water-cooled engine, driving a Curtiss two-bladed wooden propeller.
   Span 14.50m (47ft 7in); length 7.80m (25ft 7in); height 3m (9ft 10in); wing area 46.8sq m (50375sq ft).
   Maximum speed 54kt (62mph).
   One conversion in July 1915.