Originally known for modified Liberty engines, the V-1710 was the first truly Allison engine, and became the first American engine to qualify at 746 kW (1,000 horsepower) for the 150-hour military type test. It was the only liquid cooled engine that saw service in World War II, powering most war time U.S. Army fighters, including the P-38, P-39, P-40, P-63, and early P-51s.

In 1937, Allison began development of the V-3420, comprised of two V-1710 engines geared together on a common crankcase. This project resulted from an Army Air Corps interest in a 1,500 kW (2,000 hp) bomber engine. However, development was not pressed until late in the war because of the need for improving the V-1710. Plans were made for producing the V-3420 in large quantity for a high-speed, low-altitude fighter, the Fisher P-75, but only about 100 engines were produced before the project was dropped.

This engine powered the Fisher XP-75A and P-75A.

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

Allison Division, General Motors Corporation

Physical Description

Type: Reciprocating, 24 cylinders, liquid-cooled,
Power rating: 1,939 kW (2,600 hp) at 3,000 rpm
Displacement: 56 L (3,420 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 140 mm (5.5 in.) x 140 mm (5.5 in.)
Weight: 1,485.5 kg (3,275 lb)

Dimensions

Height 104 cm (40.9 in.), Width 152.2 cm (59.9 in.), Depth 685.8 cm (270 in.)

Materials

Aluminum, Steel, Magnesium, Paint, Copper, Rubber, Wood, Phenolic, Preservative coating

Inventory Number

A19660386000

Credit Line

Transferred From USAAF

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.