Consolidated PB2Y-3 Coronado Flying Boat with Integral Rocket Motors (1944)

[jzichek]

Check out this article at RetroMechanix.com on an experimental Consolidated PB2Y-3 Coronado flying boat equipped with integral JATO motors in the rear step of the hull:



I believe the installation is unique to this particular Coronado, as JATO units were normally hung externally under wing and shed after take off. The article features 33 high resolution detail photos of the rocket motor installation and tests thereof; a schematic of the same; and a detailed technical description of the program. Worth checking out if you are a fan of vintage flying boats and unusual test vehicles!

-Jared

[sandiego89]

Good find.  Found it very interesting that the installation was below the waterline.  Good discussion of the very carefull placement of the thrust line to ensure it is near the center of gravity- IIRC some ZELL experiments found out the hard way that augmented thrust had to be very carefully alligned to prevement over or under rotation. 

[Maverick]

One also wonders about the extra weight penalty of the engine when in flight.  But thanks for posting.

Regards,

Mav