During the winter months, we have been conducting a full survey of the Harvard. Unfortunately, this process identified significant engine issues. In particular, crankshaft corrosion meant that it would not be possible or cost effective to overhaul the existing engine.
As part of the overall funding package to return the Seafire to flight, we have purchased a new engine for the Harvard (as the aircraft is an essential trainer).
This purchase moved even more quickly than we expected and the new Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engine was delivered from the USA this week!
Following an ‘un-boxing’ we’re delighted to introduce the new Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engine and it looks fantastic!
Since the 1930s, mechanics have placed a penny inside the Pratt and Whitney engine during an overhaul or installation. The year on the penny marks the year of the last overhaul. If you look very closely, you can see that the existing engine was last overhauled in 1990! That’s what the penny looks like after 35 years in the engine!
