Continental built this engine under license from Wright. It is a member of the Wright J-6 Whirlwind family, which was sometimes referred to as the J-6-9. The well known designers Sam Heron, and Charles Lawrance were involved during the mid-1920s with the original version of the J-6, which produced up to 336 kW (450 hp).
During World War II, the further developed Continental engine was installed in medium tanks. Post-World War II R-975 engines powered helicopters such as the Kaman HOK, Kellet H-10, Piasecki HUP, and Piasecki XHRP as well as the McDonnell XV-1 convertiplane.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
Circa World War II
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Continental, Inc.
Designer
Wright Aeronautical
Physical Description
Type: Radial, 9 cylinders, air-cooled
Power rating: 410 kW (550 hp) at 2,400 rpm
Displacement: 16 L (975 cu in)
Bore and Stroke: 127 mm (5 in.) x 140 mm (5.5 in.)
Weight: 331.1 kg (730 lb)
Dimensions
Overall: 730lb. (331.1kg)
Other: 42 3/8 x 45 1/2in. (107.7 x 115.6cm)
Diameter 115.6 cm (45.5 in.), Length 107.7 cm (42.4 in.) (Dimensions for R-975-42)
Inventory Number
A19771196000
Credit Line
Transferred from the Naval Aviation Museum
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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