Complex sentence: The engine's exhaust protruded over the upper wing so that the crew were not exposed to the fumes, while the fuel tank was made from gutta percha and the R.E.8 had a tendency to burn when damaged.
Split into simpler sentences: The engine's exhaust protruded over the upper wing so that the crew were not exposed to the fumes. The fuel tank was made from gutta percha and the R.E.8 had a tendency to burn when damaged.