Eduard 1/48 P40E PRINT Allison V1710 (In Stock June, Price TBC)

The Allison V-1710 Engine in the P-40E Warhawk

The Allison V-1710 was the heart of the Curtiss P-40E Warhawk, providing the power and durability that made the aircraft a formidable fighter in World War II. This liquid-cooled, V12 engine was developed by the Allison Engine Company and became one of the most widely used American aircraft engines of the era.

Specifications and Performance

• Engine Type: 12-cylinder, liquid-cooled, V-1710-39

• Displacement: 1,710 cubic inches (28 liters)

• Horsepower Output: 1,150 hp at 3,000 RPM

• Compression Ratio: 6.65:1

• Supercharger: Single-stage, single-speed

• Weight: Approx. 1,350 lbs (612 kg)

The Allison V-1710’s ruggedness and ability to sustain damage made it ideal for the low-altitude combat roles the P-40E often undertook. However, its single-stage supercharger limited high-altitude performance, making it less effective in high-altitude engagements compared to aircraft like the Spitfire or P-51 Mustang.

Operational Use and Maintenance

The V-1710 engine was known for its ease of maintenance in the field, an essential trait for the harsh environments of the Pacific and North African theaters. Mechanics could quickly access and repair components, ensuring high availability rates for P-40E squadrons.

The direct-drive configuration meant that the engine was more compact and efficient at lower altitudes, but it lacked the performance boost that a two-stage supercharger would have provided. Despite this, skilled pilots could use the P-40E’s engine characteristics to their advantage in boom-and-zoom tactics and low-altitude dogfights.

Eduard 1/48 P-40E Engine PRINT Kit

Eduard’s 1/48 P-40E Engine PRINT kit is a highly detailed resin-printed upgrade that enhances the realism of the P-40E Warhawk model. It provides an open-engine bay option, allowing modelers to showcase the intricate details of the Allison V-1710 powerplant.

Kit Features

• Highly detailed 3D-printed resin parts for an accurate representation of the V-1710 engine.

• Optional open-engine cowling to display the powerplant in a maintenance or diorama setting.

• Photo-etched details for added realism, including fine wiring and paneling.

• Compatible with Eduard’s 1/48 P-40E kits, seamlessly integrating with their existing model line.

• High-quality print resolution that captures even the smallest engine components.

Build and Display Potential

For modelers who enjoy detailed engine bays and maintenance scenes, this kit is an excellent addition. The Eduard P-40E Engine PRINT set provides an opportunity to bring the Warhawk to life with an ultra-realistic exposed engine configuration.

Conclusion

The Allison V-1710 engine played a crucial role in the P-40E’s performance, offering durability and power in combat. Eduard’s 1/48 P-40E Engine PRINT kit allows modelers to highlight this important aspect of the aircraft with stunning detail, making it a must-have for WWII aviation enthusiasts and scale model builders.