Prototypes worth modelling-The Grumman Duck amphibian.

**wonwinglo** · 29-12-2005

Grumman Duck Amphibian.

Wonwings Grumman Duck gets its first flotation tests,scratch-built from Harold Towner plans and converted to take radio control,despite the tricky fuselage contours she makes for an attractive model subject.

Starting life as the Grumman FF-1 and F2F carrier based fighters for the U.S.Navy,the aircraft had some unique new ideas in its design including a fully retractable undercarriage that went into the sides of the single float.
Grumman was awarded a contract to supply the XJF-1 prototype which first flew on 4th May 1933,following extensive test flying the Navy ordered 27 model JF-1's which were delivered in 1934.
These aircaft replaced the older Loening OL-9 observation and general purpose machines in the observation and general purpose role,the construction was light alloy structure for the wings which were fabric covered,and the fuselage was made from a stressed skin and light alloy structure.
Next came along the Grumman JF-2 aircraft which saw service in the U.S Coast Guard with four transferred to the U.S.Navy later,another version called the J2F-2A equipped the Marine squadron VMS-3 being equipped with machine guns and under wing bomb racks.
The final production aircraft were manufactured in 1940 as the model J2F-5 which were the first aircraft to carry the name Duck officially.
The Duck remained in service throughout the war years operating from carriers and land bases in a variety of roles,these included patrol,photo-survey operations,air sea rescue and target towing.
Spec for model J2F-6.
Powerplant: 900 hp Wright R-1820-54 Cyclone 9,9-cylinder radial piston engine.
Max speed 190 mph.
Cruising speed 155 mph.
Service ceiling: 25,000 feet.
Range:750 miles.
Empty weight: 4,400 lbs.
Max take off weight: 7,700 lbs.
Wingspan: 39 feet.
Length: 34 feet.
Height: 13 feet 11 inches.
Wing area: 409 square feet.

**wonwinglo** · 29-12-2005

Watch the great fim 'Murphys War' for scenes of the Grumman Duck in action,also another film called 'Ba Ba Black sheep' features a Grumman Duck flying.