At the outbreak of World War Two, Britian’s two most advanced fighters, the Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire, were powered by early versions of the Merlin.

As time progressed, ever more powerful versions were produced, one of which was the Mark XX, which is the version displayed in the Museum.

The Merlin XX went into production in July 1940 (the engine displayed in the museum being built between 21st and 25th July). This mark of Merlin powered the Avro Lancaster B Mk I and B Mk VII and the Lancaster Type 464, which was used by the Dambusters. In addition it powered the Defiant Mk II, Beaufighter Mk IIF, Halifax B Mk II Series 1, most Hurricane Mk IIs and the Spitfire Mk III prototype.

The museum is indebted to Mr Peter Carter for the loan of the engine on display.

Technical Specifications

Cylinder Configuration : V12
Capacity : 27 Litres (1650 cubic inches)
Horsepower : 1,390 (1,200 Kw)
Fuel : Petrol 100 Octane
Supercharger : Two Stage
Cooling : 70%-30% water / glycol mix
Weight : 1,600 lbs

Rolls Royce Merlin Aero Engine Cut Away