After making numerous requests for information, I finally got a reply from a company that's an EPA contractor handling these kinds of questions.
Looks like importation is allowed if you know the right box to check and the correct wording to use.

Here's what they wrote:


"Thank you for your inquiry. If the engine was manufactured in 1952, then it was built prior to the emission regulations starting and box 17 on form 3520-21 should be used.


https://www.epa.gov/importing-vehicles-and-engines/publications-and-forms-importing-vehicles-and-engines

EPA Imports Line, Exemptions

Managed by  

Contractor to the U.S. EPA

Phone: (734) 214-4098 or 4100

Fax: (734) 214-4676"

@ Listerational
Don't use the ether for starting!!!!!! Damage to the piston rings can result.
When turning over the engine, can you hear the injector creaking? If not, you'll need to bleed the fuel system.
If yes, is there good compression?
If no, is a valve stuck open? Are the rings seating?
If compression is good and you have injector creak, , and it is cold (as in near freezing temperatures) remove the air filter and use a propane torch directed into the intake to heat up the intake for a couple of minutes, then try a start.
That's the short version.
Always worked for me, even when there was ice on the flywheels!

Cheers
Hugh

Thanks Butch
I am on the case and will contact the shipping company that you've linked.
The EPA  removed the "ancient engine" exclusion in 2023, so we will see what transpires. I do think there is a way, and can't imagine that they would not allow something like this, though these days it seems regs change quickly, frequently, and without a good reason.
I'm not ready to throw in the towel and you've given me a good lead.
Many thanks for this and for all the other good advice over the years.
Cheers
Hugh

I've been poking around in the EPA regulations relating to stationary engines....what an arcane collection of rules! I would think that a customs inspector would not have much knowledge of the vagaries of these regulations, and would just say an ass-covering "no" to importation. After a lot of looking, I am not able to find much other then the "ancient engine exemption"  being eliminated in 2023. I will keep searching.

The idea of disassembly and sending the engine as parts is probably workable, though the freight (and associated) costs would be approximately double.
Part of the requirement is a heat treated pallet which I I had to build from properly marked dunnage: every piece has to be clearly marked . Scrounging up more material for another pallet is problematic.
It is quite regrettable that bureaucratic BS makes it nearly impossible for collectors and hobbyists to import and preserve these old machines.

I did discover that a non-conforming engine may be imported if it powers an armored vehicle with weapons installed.......
       I supposed the engine could be shipped in a welded up steel box with a BB gun duct taped on.

Unfortunate that there has been no interest here in Canada for a 6/1 start-o-matic. It's on the pallet and ready to ship, just not into the US.

Cheers
Hugh

mknobloch
P.M. me. I do have some old files that might be helpful.
I found out to my dismay, and after several years of service, that I missed a large bit of casting sand on the underside of the piston. Cost me a new crankshaft, etc.
Cheers
Hugh

@ reddcarr
Jim Calder email is
justliveoffgrid@gmail.com
I have dealt with him many times over last 10+ years.
Straight up guy.
Website is not operating, but try his email.

OTO, I have a 6/1 Startomatic engine for sale.

Cheers
Hugh

Selling our Start-O-Matic engine with it's original steel base. S/N CS96667 on both engine and base data plate.
Re-arranging my power systems, so this one is for sale. It has been used for powering my shop via an Utterpower PMG (not included, I will keep that as a spare).
$3200 CAD, that's about 2300 USD
I am in Canada, British Columbia. Can deliver to a nearby freight depot.

Cheers
Hugh