Pratt & Whitney Double Wasp R-2800

1937, Stratosphere Chamber, On long term display

The Wasp series of single and twin-row air-cooled engines powered the backbone of the American air forces throughout the Second World War. This twin-row 18-cylinder version was used in aircraft such as the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, Vought F4U Corsair and Grumman F6F Hellcat.

It was also fitted to the Vickers Warwick, designed as a larger version of the Wellington and mainly used in air-sea rescue and maritime reconnaissance roles.

This particular engine was used in a Douglas DC6 airliner.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Type: Air-cooled twin-row radial

Cylinders: 18

Power: 1,850bhp (1,380 kW) at 2,700 rpm

Size: 2,805 in3 (46 L)

Bore: 5.75 in (146 mm)

Stroke: 6 in (152 mm)

Loaned by Mike Davey