Supermarine S6 Query

A number of answers.
As launched the S6 had symmetrical floats and sufficient fuel tankage in each to allow part, or all, the fuel to be carried in the starboard float to offset torque if required. Initial tests showed that most fuel would indeed have to be carried there. It was also apparent that both engine and airframe were slightly heavier than estimated and hence reserve bouyancy was looking a bit marginal, and with the addition of extra radiators and more coolant water during development this looked even worse. Finally there was concern that the low nose on the float design, required to minimise drag in the air, could result in ‘nosing in’ on landing. So the longer, higher nose float fitted for the contest was a quick fix designed to deal with all these.
The floats on the S6a, esstentially lengthened S6 type, were a better solution and the those on the S6b were a completely new design.

Cheers

Thanks for your replies.

I knew there would be people on the forum who could tell me.

cheers Baz:)

According to some sources, it was common for the pilot to start his take-off run at right-angles to the eventual line of lift-off.
Edgar

Similar the oleos and tyre pressures differ for the same reason, torque

I’ve long understood that the one float was bigger, yes, because of the torque. This tended to drive one float lower into the water, hence creating more drag and causing the aircraft to turn in the water – most problematical at full power taking off.

Roger Smith.