Wright Model T (for Tornado) development began in 1922 with a displacement of 32 liters (1947 cubic inches) and rated at 391 kW (525 shp); maintaining a reputation for many years as one of the most efficient water-cooled engines yet produced. T-3 development, produced in direct-drive and geared versions, began in 1923. It powered the Wright X0-3 Mohawk biplane, built for the 1924 Army competition for an experimental observation aircraft. However, proving to be overweight and under-powered for Army use, it failed to make the minimum required performance. Subsequently, for many years, this aircraft was used by Wright for engine flight testing.
The T-3 was also installed in place of a Liberty engine in three Douglas DT-2 torpedo bombers redesignated as SDW-1A; and a variation known as the T-M successfully introduced for marine work. Application in the Pulitzer Prize Race and Schneider Cup Race was not particularly successful, with two accidents suffered in the latter.
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 1925
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Wright Aeronautical
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, 12 cylinders, V-type, water-cooled
Power rating: 447 kW (600 hp) at 1,800 rpm
Displacement: 31.9 L (1947.48 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 146 mm (5.75 in.) x 159 mm (6.25 in.)
Weight): 526.2 kg (1,160 lb)
Dimensions
Height 108 cm (42.5 in.), Width 78.7 cm (31 in.), Depth 172.7 cm (68in.)
Materials
Rubber, Steel, Paint, Plastic, Aluminum, Textile, Brass, Copper
Inventory Number
A19660461000
Credit Line
Believed to have been transferred from the U.S. Navy
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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