Mitsubishi was the first and largest series producer of Japanese engines during World War II, with a 1937 Pratt & Whitney arrangement possibly contributing to this success. The Kasei (Mars) was the largest of the manufacturer’s original 14-cylinder radials, and was widely used in various models. Between 1941 and 1945, 9,323 engines of all models of Kasei 20 series were manufactured.

The Kasei 25 incorporated a two-speed supercharger, similar to earlier Kasei 21 and 22 models. It was used in a number of war time aircraft including: 1,133 B6N2 Nakajima Tenzan (Heavenly Mountain) (Allied Code Name Jill) single engine, torpedo-bombers; less than 100 of the night fighter version of the Yokosuka P1Y2 Ginga (Milky Way) (Allied Code Name Frances); two prototypes of the four-engine Kawanishi H8K4 maritime reconnaissance flying-boat; and 1,154 twin-engine Mitsubishi G4M2 (Allied Code Name Betty) attack bombers.

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

Japan

Type

PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary

Manufacturer

Mitsubishi Jukogyo K. K.

Physical Description

Type: Reciprocating, 14 cylinders, 2 rows, radial, two-speed supercharger, air-cooled
Power rating: 1,074 kW (1,440 hp) at 2,450 rpm
Displacement: 42.2 L (2,576 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 150 mm (5.91 in.) x 170 mm (6.69 in.)
Weight: 730 kg (1,609 lb)

Dimensions

Diameter 134.0 cm (52.75 in.), Length 156.2 cm (61.5 in.)

Materials

Ferrous Alloy
Unknown Coating
Synthetic Fabric
Non-Magnetic Metals
Wood
Plastic

Inventory Number

A19670087000

Credit Line

Transferred from the U.S. Army Air Forces

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

Restrictions & Rights

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