The R-4360 Wasp Major was developed during WWII though it only saw service late in the war. It represents the most technically advanced and complex reciprocating aircraft engine produced in large numbers in the U.S. The passing of the KC-97 in the late 1970s marked the end of the large piston engine and the turbocharger in the U.S. Air Force.

The Wasp Major first flew in 1942 and was in production from 1944 - 1955. Over 18,000 were produced.

models

• R-4360-4A: 3,000 hp (2236 kW)
• R-4360-4W: 3,000 hp (2236 kW)
• R-4360-35: 3,500 hp (2610 kW)
• R-4360-41: 3,500 hp (2610 kW)
• R-4360-59B: 3,500 hp (2610 kW)
• R-4360-63A: 3,800 hp (2834 kW)

specifications

• 28 cylinder, air-cooled, four-row radial
• displacement: 4,360 cu. in.
• RPM: 4,000 - 4,300
   

used by

• Boeing 377-PG Pregnant Guppy
• Martin AM-1 Mauler
• Northrop B-35
• Convair B-36 Peacemaker
• Boeing B-50 Superfortress
• Boeing KC-97 Stratofreighter
• Douglas C-74 Globemaster I
• Douglas C-124 Globemaster II
• Boeing XF8B
• Hughes H-4 Hercules
• Martin JRM Mars
• Martin P4M Mercator