"Tater" wrote

which brought me to this question. why did they use radials? some of
the first planes used inline engines, nut for some reason radials came
into play.

Reasons for widespread use of radials

#10 Simplicity
#9 Durability
#8 Reliability
#7 Ease of repair
#6 Able to take battle damage without quitting
#5 Ease of repair after #6 occurs
#4 Weight
#3 Weight
#2 Weight
#1 Savings of all the above Weight
--
Jim in NC