| That single engine B17 is the engine test bed (five engine) pictured above it with the wing engines 'shopped out.
Going from four 1820s to 2800s (two or three - wouldn't want four) would reduce the safety factor: lose a 1820 and you have 75% of your power left lose a 2800 and you've lost 33% to 50%, a big deal on a long range strategic bomber. Four propellers, though a bit smaller and with less power, are going to be more efficient than two larger higher powered ones for long cruise climbs. |