Curtiss XP-42

Last updated
XP-42
Curtiss XP-42 in flight 1945.jpg
Curtiss XP-42 in its final configuration, 1945
General information
TypeEngine cooling research
National originUnited States
Manufacturer Curtiss-Wright
Number built1
History
First flightMarch 1939
Developed from Curtiss P-36

The Curtiss XP-42 was an experimental fighter built by Curtiss Aircraft in the late 1930s to research engine cooling and improving the performance of the Curtiss P-36 Hawk.

Contents

Design and development

The fourth production P-36 (serial 38-004) became a development platform for a direct successor, designated XP-42 by the USAAC. The XP-42 was powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-1830 "Twin Wasp" engine fitted with a longer, streamlined cowling and a large propeller spinner. These features attempted to improve the aerodynamics of the air-cooled radial engine.

Curtiss XP-42 in its initial configuration, 1939 Curtiss XP-42 061019-F-1234P-033.jpg
Curtiss XP-42 in its initial configuration, 1939

When the XP-42 first flew in March 1939, it proved to be faster than the P-36. However, the P-40 was faster still and the new nose cowling caused engine cooling problems that proved to be unresolvable, despite at least 12 sets of modifications, which ultimately resulted in a shorter and less streamlined cowling closely resembling the original P-36 Hawk. The XP-42 project was canceled. However, the XP-42 prototype was retained as a test-bed and was later fitted with an all-moving tail (stabilator), for research purposes.[ when? ] This aircraft was scrapped on July 15, 1947. [1]


Specifications (XP-42)

Data from Curtiss aircraft, 1907-1947 [2]

General characteristics

Performance

Armament

See also

Related development

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References

  1. "Curtiss P-36A Mohawk". Forgotten Props - A Warbirds Resource Group Site. Retrieved 2019-11-16.[ unreliable source? ]
  2. Bowers, Peter M. (1979). Curtiss aircraft, 1907-1947. London: Putnam. p. 365. ISBN   978-0370100296.
  3. Lednicer, David. "The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage". m-selig.ae.illinois.edu. Retrieved 16 April 2019.