Originally posted by Tac:
Did the P-38 (any model) have auto-retracting flaps? I know they had locks (later models I think) to prevent deployment when faster than 250mph, but did their flaps automatically retract?
All P-38s flaps had three "automatic" positions, up, down and maneuver. In other words, the pilot could select either of these three and they would automatically stop at the desired position. In addition, the pilot could select any intermediate position between 'up' and 'maneuver'. Early Lightnings had a little glitch that was not fixed well until into J model production. If a pilot selected 'maneuver', then moved the lever slightly forward, then back to 'maneuver', the flaps would fully extend.
To avoid this, the pilot had to cycle the lever to 'up' before returning to 'maneuver'. This related to sequencing of the selector valve. A redesigned valve cured this.
That is the extent of the flaps being "automatic". However, If you want to know if the would "blow up" under aero loading, I can find nothing in the manuals to indicate that they would (or could as the case may be). Since the P-38 incorporated Fowler type flaps, not split flaps, I don't see how they would blow up. The flaps have rollers, which sit in rails. Operated by push-pull rods and cables, the flaps roll down and to the rear in their tracks. To get them to blow up, they would need to roll forward and up in the tracks. I don't see that as being likely.
My regards,
Widewing
