Specifications |
|
| Type: | 12-cylinder, supercharged, “V” piston engine |
| Displacement: | 1,710 cu. in. |
| Weight: | 1,350 lbs. |
| Power Output: | 1,125 hp at 3,000 rpm (max power) |
| Year: | |
| NEAM Id: | 2 |
| Location: | Military Hangar |
The V-1710 is a V-12 liquid-cooled engine with 1,710 cubic inches of displacement and was the only American liquid-cooled engine to see service in World War II. Over 70,000 units were produced between 1931 and 1948.
The Allison Division of General Motors initiated the development of V-1710 in 1930 to meet the needs of the U.S. Army Air Corps for a 1,000 hp engine for use in a new generation of streamlined fighters and bombers. In the development of various versions it produced up to 1,600 hp. The design allowed for left- or right- hand rotation set up, easy changes of superchargers, and different drive-gear ratios on a single production line.
The U.S. Navy purchased the first V-1710's, the “B” model without a supercharger, for use on the Akron and Macon airships. The Army Air Corp purchased its first V-1710 in December 1932. The Depression slowed development and it was not until 1937 that it completed its Army Air Corp test program.
The “F” model, which includes this V-1710-81 variant (Allison model F20R), had a higher output, less frontal area and shorted overall length than earlier models.
Aircraft powered by the V-1710-81 include:
After the war, V-1710's became popular as a powerplant for hydroplane and racing boats, drag racers, land speed racers.
Email if you have any information or comments on the Allison V1710-81 (F20R).
