10 Facts About the F4U Corsair’s Mighty Engine

Published Jan 15, 2023 By Vince Lopez

Youtube / Roger Dodge

The F4U Corsair’s engine was the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp, a powerful 18-cylinder radial engine.
The R-2800 was capable of producing up to 2,000 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful engines of its time.
The engine featured twin-row, air-cooled cylinders, and a unique “double-banking” configuration that allowed for a compact and lightweight design.
The R-2800 was first used in the F4U Corsair in 1940, and it became one of the most widely used aircraft engines of World War II.
The R-2800 was also used in other aircraft types such as the Grumman F6F Hellcat, and the Douglas A-26 Invader.
The R-2800 was known for its reliability and durability, which made it a favorite among pilots and mechanics alike.
The F4U Corsair’s engine allowed it to reach a top speed of over 400 mph and a service ceiling of over 30,000 ft.
The engine was equipped with a unique “butterfly” type supercharger, which provided extra power at high altitudes.
The R-2800 was also used in some post-war aircraft such as the McDonnell F2H Banshee and the North American FJ Fury.
The Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp engine was one of the most successful aircraft engines of all time, with more than 150,000 units produced during its production run.