This invention relates to valve mechanism for internal combustion engines in which a single-actuating mechanism is employed to control the supply of compressed starting air, and the ports through which the engine cylinder communicates with the atmosphere.
The inventor claims in valve mechanism for internal combustion engines the combination with a lift valve controlling the admission of compressed starting air to the engine cylinder, of a cylindrical valve, which maintains communication between the interior of the engine cylinder and the atmosphere during the initial upward movement of the piston, mounted on the actuating rod of the lift valve, and adapted to move co-axially thereon for a portion of its travel, and a single mechanism actuating both valves.