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Author Topic: P-47 Combat Tactics 101, by Robert S. Johnson  (Read 4384 times)

Offline ispar

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P-47 Combat Tactics 101, by Robert S. Johnson
« Reply #60 on: June 18, 2001, 10:15:00 PM »
Quote
Originally posted by Widewing:


In case no one realized this, the turbo installation for this P-38 reflects those models prior to the P-38J. From the P-38J-1-LO on, all Lightnings were fitted with core type intercoolers, and not the leading edge intercoolers shown. This substantially improved the cooling of the intake charge allowing, for the first time, sustained fullpower operation without detonation.

Another problem with the earlier design was leakage. Moreover, finding and repairing the leak was a nightmare, requiring the disassembly of a substantial portion of the wing.

My regards,

Widewing

[ 06-12-2001: Message edited by: Widewing ]

S! Indeed!
This system also caused problems due to the convoluted ducting system involved in running the air from the leading edge into the engine. And yes, backfires could deform the wing.

Also, with regards to the durability of the Allison - well, it wasn't known for its reliability, to be frank.
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Offline Kweassa

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P-47 Combat Tactics 101, by Robert S. Johnson
« Reply #61 on: July 04, 2001, 03:11:00 PM »
Is there any tale referring to Johnson's perilous showdown with Egon Mayer?

 That'd be quite a tale if we had info from both sides  :)
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Offline Dwarf

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P-47 Combat Tactics 101, by Robert S. Johnson
« Reply #62 on: July 09, 2001, 09:34:00 PM »
Quote
Originally posted by ispar:


Also, with regards to the durability of the Allison - well, it wasn't known for its reliability, to be frank.

The problem wasn't really the engine, but the systems that got attached to it.  Especially the early engines.

The prop governors used on the early P-38's were prone to "runaway" causing the engine to overspeed and destroy itself if immediate action wasn't taken.

The early turbo's would sometimes "surge" causing the engine to run unevenly and detonation to occur.  This quickly caused expensive noises as parts of the engine sought to exit the aircraft also.

In North Africa, where the (unturboed) A-36 saw most of it's action, the Allison stood up very well to the dusty gritty conditions.  It was not uncommon for those engines to last 1,000 hours.  The Merlins on the Spits needed new bearings after 100 hours under the same conditions.

Dwarf
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Offline Toad

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P-47 Combat Tactics 101, by Robert S. Johnson
« Reply #63 on: July 09, 2001, 10:14:00 PM »
Post-war the Allison was used in many racing applications in cars and boats. Very successful, too.
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Offline grizz

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P-47 Combat Tactics 101, by Robert S. Johnson
« Reply #64 on: July 09, 2001, 11:52:00 PM »
I don't know how I missed this the first time around. Thanks all for the info and the stories.  :)

What a great thread !!  :D
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