Jonathan Stilwell wrote:

"Stephen Harding" wrote in message
...


Saw a photo yesterday of a WWII B-17 test aircraft powered
with four Allison inline engines as opposed to the usual
Wright Cyclones.



That would be the XB-38, the ninth production B-17E (41-2401) modified by
Vega with Allison V-1710-89 engines. According to "US Bombers" by Lloyd
Jones, the changes showed an increase in top speed of 10 mph over the B-17E,
with new increased wing fuel tanks giving a range of 3600 miles. The
aircraft was lost on 16 June 1943, 29 days after it's first flight, due to
an in-flight fire.



Anyone know why the modification didn't go anywhere?
The usual suspects? Too much disruption to B-17
production? Engines needed by P-38, P-39, P-40?



The latter reason is the one given in the book.

Jon.




Sure is smooth lookin'!!
http://www.wpafb.af.mil/museum/resea...bers/b3-87.htm