Originally posted by Bodhi
It makes sense. The38's hard points are attached directly to the bottom spar cap and the spar in that area is reinforced to spread out the weight. Why not attach more pylons. We already know they could carry 2000 lbs on the single pylon, why not spread more pylons and carry more bombs.
As for the 2000 lbrs, Guppy, have you seen enough proof to know whether there was indeed a shortage that precluded the P-38 from carrying these weapons more?
Interesting to note, that in terms of photo evidence, I can't find any that show 2000 pounders on a 38. Most times it's 500 pounders. On occasion its 1000 pounders. I don't recall ever seeing mention of anything larger then 1000 pounders in a Group history and I have all of the 38 groups that have published histories.
As for the 3 pylon set up, the only group I've seen photos to support their use was the 82nd in the MTO.
Two below. First is their droopsnoot with 6 500 pounders.
Second showing the 6 pylon set up with 4 500 pounders and 2 DTs.
