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| XP-42 | |
|---|---|
 Curtiss XP-42 in its final configuration, 1945 | |
| General information | |
| Type | Engine cooling research |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Curtiss-Wright |
| Number built | 1 |
| History | |
| First flight | March 1939 |
| Developed from | Curtiss P-36 |
TheCurtiss XP-42 was an experimental fighter built byCurtiss Aircraft in the late 1930s to research engine cooling and improving the performance of theCurtiss P-36 Hawk.
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 aPratt & 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-cooledradial engine.
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]
Data from Curtiss aircraft, 1907-1947[2]
General characteristics
Performance
Armament
Related development