1931 Heath LNB-4 Parasol - N953M

The Heath LNB-4 was one of the last of the famed line of parasols and one of two models that was a type-certificated aircraft and therefore eligible to be licensed in the standard category. The LNB-4 was designed by Ed Heath, who, for his time, was considered by many to be a genius in the design and construction of the light sport plane.

Originally, the LNB-4 was powered by a converted Henderson motorcycle engine. After test flights, the parasol was found to be a bit underpowered by the Henderson engine, though it proved a pleasure to fly when powered with the 40 hp Continental A-40. The plans for the LNB-4 recommended either the Continental A-40 or a Heath B-4 engine.

The fuselage, ailerons, and tail surfaces are of welded steel tubing with fabric covering. The wings are of wood construction and are also fabric covered. The landing gear is of the split-axle type with rubber ring shock absorbers. The wheels originally were Heath 16 by 4 cast especially for the airplane, but various wheels and tires could be adapted easily to fit. The Parasol could also be fitted with floats or skis. The cockpit measured 21 inches wide, with approximately 45 inches between the firewall and the seat back.

The Heath was a stable and responsive airplane, somewhat light and sensitive to the wind. Its large wing area and light wing loading made it a good aircraft for higher elevation fields. The full span ailerons made lateral control obvious and the large rudder and elevators not only provided for easy slow flight, but for well balanced control as well.

Of all the pre-war homebuilts, it is generally agreed that the Heath airplanes were probably the most popular with the homebuilder. 

The LNB-4 was donated to EAA by John McGeary in 1986.