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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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