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The Fulmar was virtually a refined naval version of the Battle. It was the first eight-gun fighter to enter service with the Fleet Air Arm. My engine was fitted to Fulmar I, No N1926, and served with 759 Squadron, HMS Kestrel, Yeovilton. It crashed on 4th October 1940 during attack training. The pilot, Lt Richard Herbert Ridley RNVR baled out but subsequently lost his life. He was aged 26, and is buried at Bridgnorth, Shropshire. There was no observer on the aircraft. . . . . |
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The engine "as found" after removing anciliaries We are repairing the crankcase and fitting a new front reduction gear cover. The sump, or lower crankcase, has had to be replaced, as has the coolant pump, but all other damage to the engine is being repaired to maintain its originality. |
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Only 184 of these engines were built. They are similar to the Merlin XII fitted to the Spitfire II, using the same Coffman starter. It is unique in having a blower drive ratio of only 6.313:1 for low altitude work, if you can call 18,900 rpm "low"! Power is 1275 bhp at 3000 rpm with 5.75 lb max boost. It was designed for 87 octane fuel, hence the conservative boost setting. |
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After restoration to running order |
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Here`s a Merlin VIII on a test-bed in Egypt. Note the straight exhaust stubs and the test-club consisting of a pair of two-blade props. The chap on the left is John Cameron, who also served with the FAA in Nairobi. |
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