Toward the end of 1915, Curtiss conducted a design study for a large aircraft engine of 224 kW (300 hp) or more. The objective was a power plant for large seaplanes, such as the British Naval Air Forces used in patrolling the North Sea for enemy submarines. The quickest way to develop such an engine was thought to be through enlarging the 8-cylinder Curtiss VX engine into a 12-cylinder version. The first 12-cylinder Curtiss engine was designated V-4.
Although this engine eventually developed about 298 kW (400 hp), it was not produced because a successful rival, the Liberty, was lighter and had the same power. Only one V-4 was made. It powered a hydro-plane speed boat, "Miss Miami," which at one time held a world speed record of 106 km/hr (66 mph).
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 1915
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, V-type, 12 cylinders, water-cooled
Power rating: 224 kW (300 hp) at 1,400 rpm
Displacement: 27 L (1,649 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 127 mm (5 in.) x 178 mm (7 in.)
Weight: 493 kg (1,086 lb)
Dimensions
Approximate (Weight on stand): 681.3kg (1502lb.)
Other: 53 x 96 x 38in. (134.6 x 243.8 x 96.5cm)
Approximate: 132.08 x 243.84 x 95.89cm (4ft 4in. x 8ft x 3ft 1 3/4in.)
Materials
Steel, Aluminum, Preservative coating, Rubber, Plastic, Copper, Brass, Textile
Inventory Number
A19500097000
Credit Line
Purchased from Roosevelt Field, Inc.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Open Access (CCO)
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