A Technical and Operational History of the Liberty Engine: Tanks, Ships and Aircraft 1917-1960 - Hardcover

Neal, Robert J.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 158007149X ISBN 13: 9781580071499

Publisher: Specialty Press, 2009

Synopsis

The aim of the Liberty was to standardize aircraft engine design. The theory was to have an engine design that could be built in several sizes and thus power airplanes for any purpose, from training to bombing. The differences in sizes would be obtained by using different numbers of cylinders in the same design. A large number of other parts would also be used in common by all resulting sizes of the engine series. The initial concept called for four-, six-, eight- and 12-cylinder models. An X-24 version was built experimentally, and one- and two-cylinder models were built for testing purposes. The engine design eventually saw use on land, sea, and in the air, and its active military career spanned the years 1917 to 1960. In addition, it provided noble service in a multitude of civilian uses, and still does even today, some 90 years after the first engine ran. This book covers the complete history of the Liberty's design, production, and use in amazing detail and includes appendices covering contracts, testing, specifications, and much more.

About this title

Review

"Overall, it's a good buy."--Graham White"Aviation History" (11/01/2009)

"It very much earns my highest recommendation and is a book that no engine enthusiast should be without."--Scott Van Aken"Modeling Madness" (01/31/2009)

"A splendidly comprehensive look at one of history's most famous engines. This publication is destined to be book of choice for anyone that wishes to take a serious look at the Liberty engine and its uses."-- (02/01/2009)

"The level of detail and research performed by the author is simply stunning. If you are interested in the story of the Liberty engine, this book is an essential read."-- (03/01/2009)

"For anyone seriously interested in the use of this historic engine in aviation, military vehicles, and boats, this book is a 'must buy.' The research the author did for this book was outstanding, and must represent many years of digging and sorting information. This book is truly a 'labor of love.' "-- (03/01/2009)

"This comprehensive effort enjoys a spot on every World War I enthusiast's bookshelf. Recommended!"-- (06/01/2009)

"This isn't an airplane book, but rather a remarkable history of American engineering. ****Absolute must."-- (08/01/2009)

"Containing over 1058 photographs and drawings packed into 616-pages, this well-produced book is the ultimate reference on a pivotal American aviation engine."--George Hullett"Air Classics" (10/01/2009)

Edition details

• Publisher: Specialty Press
• Publication date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 158007149X
• ISBN 13: 9781580071499
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 616