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Messerschmitt BF 109, Why Such Short Range?

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 มี.ค. 2019
  • This is an older video I touched up and re uploaded. The question of the 109's range comes up a lot, so I put the answers into a video.
    The Official auto and Air Fan Store is Here!
    gregs-airplanesandautomobiles...
    My Patreon: / gregsairplanesandautom...
    In the video I mention three other videos,
    The 109's supercharger drive system: • Messerschmitt BF 109 S...
    and an explanation as to why the 109G is so much slower than the P-51D:
    • Why was the BF109 so s...
    and why the 109K is so dang fast, Water:Methanol Injection!
    • Why was the BF109K fas...
    Thanks for watching.
    Important Note: Nowhere in this video do I say that there is no cooling effect from the evaporation of fuel. People seem to be "reading that in" to what I actually said. The issue I have is that there is NO benefit in terms of performance from the pressure drop at the venturi.
    Evaporation of fuel does create a benefit, but that has NOTHING to do with carburetor vs. fuel injection comparisons. Either system can get that benefit and many WW2 aircraft using fuel injection do just that. Only a small amount of the fuel evaporates, and an ideal system would use direct injection at each cylinder and inject a small amount of fuel farther upstream in the intake tract, which is exactly what the Germans did in some cases. This gives the best of both worlds. However even without the vaporization, injection is still superior.

ความคิดเห็น • 1.4K

  • @mrj4990
    @mrj4990 4 ปีที่แล้ว +146

    When I die I want you to do the eulogy and only talk about the power to weight ratio of WW2 fighter aircraft for 2 hours.

    • @TheLtVoss
      @TheLtVoss 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      For me pls to

    • @acr08807
      @acr08807 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Why would the winemaker give a speech when you die?

    • @quattuorperquattuor1711
      @quattuorperquattuor1711 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@acr08807 the enology will be more interesting than any eulogy for Ju-87 Stuka

    • @rich7787
      @rich7787 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Geez, everybody wants to correct spelling and no one wants to acknowledge a talking dive bomber?

    • @mrj4990
      @mrj4990 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@rich7787 didn’t realIze until now!

  • @gergatronic
    @gergatronic 5 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Thankyou for being American and not patriotically biased... It's so refreshing to see someone actually being rational about the subject and for recognising Soviet, British and German aircraft without the usual flag-waving vitriol we normally see on this subject.

  • @p47thunderbolt68
    @p47thunderbolt68 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    I saw a 109 at a museum in Savannah Georgia. I couldn't believe how small it was . All the stock war footage that I'd seen over the years made it look much bigger for some reason.

    • @user-fz9dq3uy3l
      @user-fz9dq3uy3l 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      the Spit was roughly the same size and it was said, tongue-in-cheek by many of the pilots that you didnt so much fly the plane, you wore it around you, like a vest

  • @TwistedSisterHaratiofales
    @TwistedSisterHaratiofales 5 ปีที่แล้ว +339

    yea. lets flip the scenario. If the Spitfire's had to fly to France, then hang around to engage the 109's then the spitfire's would have been known as short range issues fighters.

    • @GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles
      @GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles  5 ปีที่แล้ว +68

      Very true.

    • @tulliusexmisc2191
      @tulliusexmisc2191 5 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      Spitfires were used extensively for photoreconnaissance over France, and later Germany. Mind you, those particular planes were specially adapted, with the weapons removed.

    • @Joesolo13
      @Joesolo13 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      That sounds very doubtful given the spitfire had almost double the range of the 109.

    • @jekubfimbulwing5370
      @jekubfimbulwing5370 5 ปีที่แล้ว +43

      The Spitfires WERE known as short range issue fighters. It wasn't until late war fighters like the MK XVI and MK XIV Spitfires that the Spitfire got some decent legs on it.

    • @jimlambert1398
      @jimlambert1398 5 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      @@tulliusexmisc2191A rear fuselage tank for extended duration was fitted, and the pilots notes for ferry pilots specified that it was to be empty... putting fuel in the tank made it virtually unflyable ! The drop tanks fitted under the fuselage were incredibly 'draggy' and best known for carrying beer to troops in Normandy post D Day.

  • @tonybarnes3658
    @tonybarnes3658 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Thanks again Greg for such a down to earth,honest,Well explained and covered topic. You I believe really have one of most superior channels on WWII aircraft. Thank you

  • @JamesSavik
    @JamesSavik 5 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    Big engine, small aircraft.
    For an aircraft conceived in the mid-thirties, went operational in 1937 and fought and remained highly competitive until the end in 1945, it was AWESOME.

    • @JohnRodriguesPhotographer
      @JohnRodriguesPhotographer 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Agreed. The fact that Albert Speer was able to increase aircraft production in spite of strategic bombing is pretty amazing. The Achilles heel of the luftwaffe was the following, fuel and the lack of a replacement pilot training program that could keep Pace with the war. Essentially their experience Pilots flew until they died. He didn't have the fuel the train with also. By 1945 they didn't have enough fuel to even fight with. The 109 in competent hands was still a deadly air airplane. Well except when they're carrying the air-to-air Rockets. Then they were sitting ducks. The aircraft was never really intended for that kind of external load.

    • @keithstudly6071
      @keithstudly6071 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      It seems to be a German trait. Big changes from the 108E to the 109G. It seems the wonky landing gear and cockpit cowl was all that remained. Look at all the different versions of the 190, or the Ju88. Look at the development of the Porsche 911 since 1964 or the 3 series BMW. They just love continuing development of known designs.

    • @starkraven7362
      @starkraven7362 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@JohnRodriguesPhotographer sed: 'The fact that Albert Speer was able to increase aircraft production in spite of strategic bombing is pretty amazing.' ... yeh, slave labor's a wunnerful fing - innit? ... 'n further opined: 'By 1945 they didn't have enough fuel to even fight with.' ... ahh... the pauvre cunz!

    • @mikebrase5161
      @mikebrase5161 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@keithstudly6071 dude I've owned a 3 series Beemer from the 80's, 90''s and now 2010's. I never thought of it that way.

    • @martinsaunders7925
      @martinsaunders7925 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The last 109 left an assembly plant in Hungary in 1966.Didnt quite meet the production length of VW bug,but was the longest of any type of fighter

  • @Tumbleweed-vh4pt
    @Tumbleweed-vh4pt 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I found it interesting that the 109 was adapted from the 108 which was an aircraft designed by Messerschmitt for private use and was a 4 passenger plane. Fuel capacity was an issue for the 108, 75 gallon maximum divided into five tanks that were spread around the fuselage. The 108 was heralded as being a easy to fly aircraft and was fast for its day. The engine was half the displacement of the fighter version, but it could get close to 300 knots depending on the propeller type. I have been following the Kermit Weeks restoration of the 108 and he got his hands on a 109. Lucky sob. He really has a nice collection of wwl and wwll aircraft for a private collection.

  • @FarrellMcGovern
    @FarrellMcGovern 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I was watching one of the Plane Savers videos and this video popped up in the list if recommended videos...I am glad I clicked on it! Thanks for making them!

  • @philipboug
    @philipboug 5 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Love your videos Greg. They are just so detailed and comprehensive. Thanks for all you do. Phil, Australia.

  • @iflycentral
    @iflycentral 5 ปีที่แล้ว +198

    "Essential equipment... obviously including the pilot." :P

    • @psikogeek
      @psikogeek 5 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Safer for the pilot to stay in bed.

    • @GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles
      @GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles  5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Hi Central, thanks for stopping by. Hopefully this month sometime I'll be on discord. I can only access it from home, which is fine because I only fly sims at home.

    • @iflycentral
      @iflycentral 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles Hopefully our schedules will align at some point. : )

    • @asiftalpur3758
      @asiftalpur3758 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I cannot wait for your collab. Please, make it happen!

    • @donjones4719
      @donjones4719 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Well, in today's world you have to specify a pilot. :)

  • @markelliott585
    @markelliott585 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Greetings from Colorado!Well done, old boy! As usual, yours is a comprehensive, well balanced and insightful perspective. Keep it up, please

  • @cparedes2302
    @cparedes2302 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Excelente vídeo! Thanks for posting it!
    It sure answered my question!
    Greetings from Guatemala!

  • @windyworm
    @windyworm 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Excellent video, very interesting.
    Your comment about the development of engines and aircraft design during the war is well made.
    The orginal FW 190 had a range of about 500 miles in 1940, whereas the TA152 that was the successor of the FW190 in 1944 had a range of 1,200 miles. Quite an increase!

  • @Letard710
    @Letard710 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Yey New video From Greg.
    Found your channel a few weeks ago. Love your technical depth and interesting focus points of your videos

  • @victorlazlo7329
    @victorlazlo7329 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thanks Greg. Great to watch these well researched videos with a real voice.

  • @Imustfly
    @Imustfly 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Really good video....great analogies !! Well done sir and thanks !! Laminar flow with the P-51 was the game changer.

  • @scottloar
    @scottloar 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Detailed comparisons well expressed in a natural tone and intelligently delivered.

  • @jaredneaves7007
    @jaredneaves7007 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    still one of the most underrated channels on TH-cam, thanks for sharing!

  • @edwardschmitt5710
    @edwardschmitt5710 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Wow. Excellent clear concise presentation. Really enjoyed it thanks!

  • @momotheelder7124
    @momotheelder7124 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I like the way you tackle aviation questions that I have had from one time or another but never bothered to properly research. It is very useful to get an in depth technical comparison of aircraft which also takes into account the design features and compromises. Most aviation books might have this information to various degrees scattered here and there, but nowhere compiled as concisely and effectively as here. Well done.

  • @Rascal356000
    @Rascal356000 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Another good video that you did. I have a better understanding of this plane's design as compared to its contemporaries. Thank you Greg.

  • @carltyson4393
    @carltyson4393 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Terrific info and insights...always learn a lot from your videos. Love the aero stuff...big fan of both the Corsair and the thunderbolt so enjoy your work a ton. Thanks!

  • @stwhite5135
    @stwhite5135 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is the first one of your vids I have seen. You're really good at this. Keep up the good work. Thanks for the video.

  • @rodparsons521
    @rodparsons521 5 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    The airframe design is as important as engine development. The airframe design of the Mustang (and late model Spitfires) allowed a greater rearward shift in CG caused by the weight of a substantial fuel tank behind the cockpit.
    We delayed production of the 20 series Spits due to emphasis on manufacture of the main production marks, V, IX/XVI & XIV.
    The earlier point defence types (of which the Merlin Spits and all 109's are classic examples) had big engines in small airframes with deliberately small (drag reducing) tailplanes, which restricted the permissable extent of rearward shift in CG caused by rear fuselage fuel loading.
    cf. Jeffrey Quill "A Test Pilot's Story", Chapter 21, "Longitudinal Stability and Increased Range".

    • @Nikarus2370
      @Nikarus2370 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      The 51 also has a massive advantage over the 109s even late, in terms of drag. I highly doubt the 109 g in question was getting a range of 450 miles at 400mph or even 360

    • @deanwilliams4365
      @deanwilliams4365 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Nikarus2370 UUMM a developed P51 yes, But xp51s had a range of only 500mi with the thirsty allison it was only after adding, internal wing tanks ito its Fat wing, fuel tank behind the pilot set and external wing tanks that the P51 c and Ds got there range Oh and the addition of the merlin which didn't drink nearly as much as the allison

    • @donjones4719
      @donjones4719 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      A very important point that ties a whole lot of other stuff together. Thanks!

    • @Endorphins27
      @Endorphins27 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      What is CG it’s too early for me

  • @rayschoch5882
    @rayschoch5882 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Nicely done, Greg - as usual. I don't mind "reruns," since I don't remember all the details of every one that I've seen, and your videos are thorough enough that there's usually LOTS of detail to try to remember. I came to the series thinking I was fairly knowledgeable about WW 2 fighters, but I learn something (or several somethings) new with each one. I'm reminded in this one, once again, of the size difference between fighters of Germany and Britain compared to U.S. fighters.

  • @aussiebloke609
    @aussiebloke609 5 ปีที่แล้ว +93

    "Underhead cams?" 13:07
    I see what you did there. Nice touch. :-)

    • @aussiebloke609
      @aussiebloke609 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      "Underhead" in this instance was because it's basically laid out as a regular DOHC engine that's upside down - crankshaft at the top and heads pointing down and to the sides. Check out the diagram at 8:54. Neither the Merlin or the D.B.601 used cam-in-block. The difference being referred to is that the Merlin was mounted in what we would consider a conventional layout, and Messerschmidt mounted it upside-down (thus the "underhead cam" comment Greg annotated in the video.)
      In reference to your point, however - generally speaking, cam-in-block engines of that period didn't breathe anywhere near as well as an _equivalent_ DOHC head, as the valve angles are compromised (they can't effectively be splayed as wide as one would want for ideal air flow through the combustion chamber ) - a situation that would be exacerbated by the limited amount of air they have at their disposal in the first place when at altitude. I suspect that using DOHC would likely have helped combat this, giving better power - especially when in a thinner atmosphere.

    • @aussiebloke609
      @aussiebloke609 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I suspect that outright power would negate using an OHV layout. They could get more power from an engine with DOHC - enough to more than offset the additional weight and slight increase to frontal area. Also, as a V12 naturally lends itself to a more streamlined airframe, even with the larger heads (especially when compared to the common alternative of the time - and while radials could be very powerful, I'm not sure I'd call them streamlined), it would be considered acceptable for packaging while giving the best overall performance.
      PS: To give an example of the potential efficiency increase when switching from OHV to DOHC, the FIAT 124 of the late '60s came with a 1.4 (amongst other sizes) in OHV and DOHC (2-valve) variants - the OHV rated at 69hp, and the DOHC at 89hp, or about a 20% increase with the rest of the engine being basically identical. I suspect that an increase of even 1/2 that would be more than worthwhile.

    • @caribman10
      @caribman10 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@aussiebloke609 The reason why the "underhead cam" layout was used was simple: it meant you didn't have to have a gearbox up front like the Mustang, Spitfire, Hurricane, Warhawk, etc, etc. to bring the drive up to the prop. Also a reason why radials were preferred early on, aside from their (relative) simplicity. By the way, unsaid here, after WW2 unlimited hydro teams tried using the DB engine but spare parts problems dogged that effort. Would've been interesting though since the DB still would've been "upside down". Anyone for a lecture on how Packard Motor Company helped win the WW2 air war?

    • @alanbriggs2637
      @alanbriggs2637 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The Daimler Benz engine was inverted, hence "underhead cams".

    • @PeterDad60
      @PeterDad60 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      My 1976 Triumph T140V Bonneville 750 has double underhead cams mounted high in the case, but under the cylinders. This design keeps weight low. It uses short push rods and a timing gear to reduce loss of timing accuracy. My Triumph raced against every street motorcycle type that existed in the world that existed in Suffolk County Long Island N.Y. and she won against all of them for 10 consecutive years. I still have my Bonneville.

  • @rubblejohnstone4460
    @rubblejohnstone4460 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Very informative and well put together, better than most History Channel output.

  • @danothemano4129
    @danothemano4129 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm very happy your video randomly showed up on my feed! As a former A & P mechanic I find this very fascinating stuff and your very meticulous in your analogy I might add! I have subscribed!

  • @Aspen51
    @Aspen51 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This has to be P1D - awesome video Greg - I actually learned something, appreciate the time & effort you put into this

  • @mrj4990
    @mrj4990 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    LOVE YOU MAN HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT WEEK

  • @michaelpielorz9710
    @michaelpielorz9710 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    It is always a pleasure to view one of your videos.Well done.

  • @stevecastro1325
    @stevecastro1325 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I will definitely be checking out the other videos; thanks!

  • @brendaproffitt4807
    @brendaproffitt4807 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Wow a wonderful plane even for being short and this is an amazing video. Excellent job thank you so so mch

  • @donbalduf572
    @donbalduf572 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Really enjoy your work, particularly regarding engine technology. I built lots of flying model planes as a kid, but only the kind powered by a rubber band. I have at least a basic understanding of control, stability and low-speed aerodynamics, but never had anything to do with internal combustion power. Keep up the good work.

  • @super3800yt
    @super3800yt 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you again for taking the time to do the research and make these videos. I (and many others) enjoy them immensely!!

    • @kevinbrislawn5918
      @kevinbrislawn5918 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I wish I could fly a bf 109..Butcher Bird..P38..Mustang.

  • @stevefriswell5422
    @stevefriswell5422 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Every day is a school day with Greg. I said it yesterday, I love these videos. Keep up the good work sir.

  • @larryhoskins5524
    @larryhoskins5524 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thanks for your video,always good to learn more about the most amazing period in aviation history,you really know your stuff.

  • @moss8448
    @moss8448 5 ปีที่แล้ว +118

    reading about the P-51 from the fliers themselves was...it was a flying fuel tank

    • @maxsuarezmuller7186
      @maxsuarezmuller7186 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Sam Moss Some had droptanks as well

    • @Theodore042
      @Theodore042 5 ปีที่แล้ว +29

      When full on internal fuel the P-51's CoG was so far back it caused "Reversibility," which is when the pilot pulls back on the stick to pitch up, he has to then push forward on it for the aircraft's nose to stop pitching up (as opposed to just putting the stick back to a neutral position). This made the aircraft impossible to trim for level flight until most of the rear fuselage tank was empty. The P-51 was made with range in mind, that's for sure.

    • @beeleo
      @beeleo 5 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      Yeah, it had to be. I haven't looked at the numbers lately but those pilots escorting the B-17s spent HOURS in the air. It must have been grueling to sit in that seat, by yourself, keeping some type formation for hours and hours. And the designers really had the benefit of hindsight to know what type of missions their planes would be used for and put fuel tanks everywhere they could.

    • @nickmitsialis
      @nickmitsialis 5 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      The author of the historic 'novel/memoir' "Nanette" (about his time flying P39s in New Guinea against Oscars & Tonys-shudder) eventually transitioned to P47s and the P51s--he referred to the experience as 'eight hours of cramp ass'. I must imagine that trying to hold your bladder in check for 8 hours must have been a nightmare.

    • @nickmitsialis
      @nickmitsialis 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Oh I'm sure..but the process of unstrapping yourself to take your wizz must be quite an effort.

  • @cluerip
    @cluerip 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    I havent watched the video yet. I'm sure it will be of the same quality of your other videos, therefore it will be great.
    Thanks for continuing to bring us this information. I like seeing the details others may take as granted.

  • @agdgdgwngo
    @agdgdgwngo 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome and eye opening video as always. Quickly grown to love your channel and your relaxed but informative style.

  • @kimscheie
    @kimscheie 5 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    such a great subject greg ...you wack it out of the park bro thanks

    • @matt4051
      @matt4051 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      +1 thanks for not wacking it in the park

  • @alexandreforster1301
    @alexandreforster1301 5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    It always come to the same issue : higher/lower octane fuel ==> more or less manifold pressure.
    Thank you for these great videos !!

    • @mandernachluca3774
      @mandernachluca3774 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Add to this lower or higher compression ratio and
      retarding or advancing ignition timing ;D.

    • @robertelmo7736
      @robertelmo7736 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Boost always wins lol..

    • @jimblake3574
      @jimblake3574 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      US fuel was higher octane & the methods to produce it were kept secret.

    • @pimpompoom93726
      @pimpompoom93726 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Germany was using synthetic fuel-liquid fuel produced from coal-to produce aviation fuel. It was difficult and costly to make the higher octane fuel. They could do it, but only at a cost. And since every gallon of gas was precious in Germany, they tried to use lower octane fuel on their fighters.

    • @binaway
      @binaway 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@jimblake3574the additives for the high octane fuel had been supplied to the RAF. The Germans notices the improved acceleration of RAF fighters immediately but didn't know why. Disobeying the order not to fly fighters over Europe a Spitfire pilot was shot down and his aircraft recovered and everything closely investigated. With no mechanical improvements and after analyzing the fuel they knew the secret.

  • @davenezrapappas4589
    @davenezrapappas4589 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Still building my 109 g 10! Very interesting video thanks and I love everything you put up.

  • @HSvedberg
    @HSvedberg 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It's one thing aquiring immense facts, another to present it in such a way you are keeping people stunned with fascination. This you do, Greg.

  • @erniemiller1953
    @erniemiller1953 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The Me109 canopy always reminds me of a glass coffin.

  • @kevinbrislawn5918
    @kevinbrislawn5918 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    really nice I..interesting details of performance of these great planes.

  • @aretardridesmotard6128
    @aretardridesmotard6128 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Your videos are always appreciated. I'm about to go on 20min smoko at work.

  • @groomlake51
    @groomlake51 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks again for the channel and content!!! Very cool stuff

  • @johnrandall879
    @johnrandall879 5 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    A few years ago I was at an airshow and flew as a passenger in a P-51 and in another P-51 flew also as a passenger also a BF-109 pilot who said he had to fly in one because he was often shot down by a P-51 . It was a great honor to fly next to the guy that let a B-17 live to fight another day. One of his remarks really hit home he said " how come we both prayed to the same God?".. look up story on TH-cam

    • @ligamabawls1073
      @ligamabawls1073 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That story isn't as heartwearming as people always make it out to be. Sure, for the bomber pilots it was nice, but the German pilot was an borderline treasonous idiot rather than a knightly hero.
      It isn't the fault of the men, but fact is that in most cases they were there to bomb civilians, to kill women and children.
      What kind of soldier lets guys who came to kill the women and children he is sworn to protect get away with it out of a antiquated knightly ideals?
      Imagine a bunch of terrorists blow up a school and they get their car shut up while making their escape and then another cop stops them at the border and not only lets them go, but even escorts them over the border, because he feels pity over how shot up they are and he wants to be "knightly".
      Fuck that asshole.
      He should have been strung up.

    • @jackthanhauser9575
      @jackthanhauser9575 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@ligamabawls1073 yeah he was a fucking human at a time he could see the writing on the wall

    • @user-fz9dq3uy3l
      @user-fz9dq3uy3l 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      youd have to be damn cold to kill helpless men who are taking the same risks as you when you already know their death wont help anything

  • @frederf3227
    @frederf3227 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    One simple way to dispel the "Venturi cooling" effect is to say that at the end of the intake the air need is a certain fixed quantity (pressure x volume). Low pressure cooling is achieved by stretching the quantity of air (and it's thermal energy) over a larger volume. Temperature is energy per volume. Because the air quantity requirement in the cylinder is fixed, stretching it to cool it is fruitless since you have to cram it back into the cylinder anyway.
    If anything briefly stretching the air to lower its temperature means that thermal energy will soak into it and the total thermal energy will increase. The temperature will be higher when the initial density is resumed. If you wanted cooling the best tactic would be to compress the air very hot, let the hot air lose energy, and then return to initial density. I'm guessing that tactic is impractical in the fast-paced world of air breathing engines.
    I spent the whole video expecting you to say "the question isn't why is the 109's range so short, but why was a rather normal-ranged fighter given such a long-ranged mission?" The airplane wasn't wrong, the mission was wrong for the airplane. And I think the answer to that was the Me-110 was supposed to do that mission and fell short Aug-Sep '40. The Bf-110 was a beautiful airplane that struggled with anything more daunting than earlier Hurricanes.

    • @tonymattingly6494
      @tonymattingly6494 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Your thinking to hard have a joint or something,..olol

  • @kimwatson4404
    @kimwatson4404 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks. Great presentation. Sometimes we fail to realize that the time gap between earlier aircraft and the later helped us develop the first air superiority fighters.

  • @gsr4535
    @gsr4535 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good to see you back Greg! 😉

  • @marcosfernandez7207
    @marcosfernandez7207 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Excelent video! Perhaps an important aspect of the Bf 109E range question is that when the design was "frozen" for serial production, the necessity of escorting bombers as far as London was not well understood. First, because war against England was not a high probability in war planning, and, second, because by this time bomber escort was a task for a heavy fighter such as the Bf 110. So, these are probably the reasons that caused huge delays in providing the Bf 109E with external drop tanks. These were available to the E7 series by late 1940 only, while the Zero fighter, designed for long range had this equipment available from the beginning of its service life. So, even with a big engine, that short range that became so serious a problem in the final months of 1940 was most likely derived from faulty planning and a substantial error of evaluation of the heavy fighter capabilities as an escort fighter. It could be pointed alto that late model Bf 109s, from the G4 series on, ir muito memory is ok, were capable of carrying 2 and even 3 300l external tanks, thus having enough range to follow back the P51s to England, if range was the only aspect in consideration. The problem of range by 1943 was much less important than to have an extra punch to deal with the heavy bombers that were showing their capacity to take the fight to the roofless nazi fortress than. Hope have contributed to this explendid work. Kind regards from Brazil!

    • @deadendfriends1975
      @deadendfriends1975 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Zero was a naval aircraft, hence the tank..

    • @marcosfernandez7207
      @marcosfernandez7207 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@deadendfriends1975 Yes, sure. But I think that a big discussion probably happened among air power specialists in the late 30's about the bombers capacity of getting through an air defence system, including interceptors. One school follows a self-defensive line of machine gun turrets and formation flying, while some people argumented for long-ranged escort fighters to fend off interceptors. Big, powerful, twin-engined aircraft. Well. Nobody had a practical experience on this subject, with the exception of the japanese, deeply commited in long range aerial attacks in China. Ir was in this scenario that the first Zeros entered in action. Naval fighters by project, long range escort fighters over land by necessity. However, the deep implications of this sucessfull experience were not understood by ter other air forces that tought at that time of strategic bombing. USA continued to believe in precision bombing by heavy, self-defending flying fortresses, Britain continued to believe in close formations of turret-armed bombers, and in Germany the short range Stukas suplanted the Ural bomber concept. Add to it a certain strenght of heavy fighters, the much vaunted ironsides, to clear the path for the bombers. In the end, the ultimate test of combat showed clearly who was right. And a more correct, experience derived demand finally produced the ultimate escort fighters, the P51B,C,D. To play, basically, the same role the Zero played in China, in that distant 1939. Kind regards!

  • @Senor0Droolcup
    @Senor0Droolcup 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I love this channel. As a pilot I thought I knew something about airplane design but I am learning a ton!

  • @joeheitz1833
    @joeheitz1833 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Another great/informative video
    Good job!

  • @romanyashin9145
    @romanyashin9145 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    2nd video convinced me to subscribe tnx a lot good info great vid keep doing what you are doing Greg.

  • @barryslemmings31
    @barryslemmings31 5 ปีที่แล้ว +66

    My understanding is that the Messerschmitt Bf 109 was always intended as a home defence interceptor fighter, hence its mixed cannon and MG armament. It was a bomber destroyer to protect the Fatherland. It did not require a long range but it did need a fast rate of climb - hence the large engine - and the two/three cannons to rip open bombers.
    The offensive fighter was meant to be the Messerschmitt Bf110 with its six-gun armament and its two engine safety margin for long distance flight and safe return. Indeed these 110s were regarded as elite squadrons and received elite pilots in the early days.
    Of course the reality was that the Bf110 was a lemon in daylight combat and was eventually escorted by 109s on daylight operations in the Battle of Britain. As a fast bomber the 110 had some qualities but it was never in the DH Mosquito category. As a night fighter it was adequate to good.
    Barry

    • @WilliamJones-Halibut-vq1fs
      @WilliamJones-Halibut-vq1fs 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      The Me 110 was built to the "destroyer" or "zerstoerer" concept. Its job was to
      1 Fly low and ahead of bombers to strafe up fighters on the ground and destroy enemy FLAK defences.
      2 Fly ahead of bombers to destroy enemy interceptors as they were in their climbing phase before they could attack the bombers the Bf 110 was escorting.
      3 Intercept and destroy enemy bombers using its powerful armament.
      4 "Bad weather fighter" ie night fighter able also to operate in fog. The second crew member could track the aircraft via radio beacons and it could thus attack and intercept at night and in bad weather. Me 110 had FuBL blind landing systems.
      When the Me 110 was in service in 1939/40/41 there were no Mosquitos, P-38 or Buefighters.
      So long as it wasn't tied to the bombers in close escort its exchange ratios was superior to the RAF fighters in the BoB. When it was called upon to be a night fighter it was ready. Original German Air Ministry Spec called for a 3 seater but Willy Messerschmitt submitted a smaller non conforming bid as he reasoned that bigger aircraft would be too slow.

    • @jamesricker3997
      @jamesricker3997 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      It's short-range was a severe handicap against the allied bomber offensive. Me-109s had to be stationed near the target, leading to the fighter force being dispersed. The luftwaffe was not able to concentrate their forces against but incoming bombers

    • @Wombat1916
      @Wombat1916 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@WilliamJones-Halibut-vq1fs small correction: Beaufighter!

    • @anitadolan6417
      @anitadolan6417 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Wombat1916 William Jones- Halibut Bigger correction: Bf 110 "exchange ratios" (whatever that means) was (sic) superior to the RAF fighters in the BOB. Bf 110s could only survive against single engine fighters by flying a defensive circle (Lufbery).

    • @Wombat1916
      @Wombat1916 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@anitadolan6417 Ah yes, that defensive formation used at first by the Bristol Fighter in WW1 - IIRC, it was more or less useless. When the Brisfit was used as a fighter with a rear gunner it did somewhat better. Of course the 110 lacked the agility to mix it.

  • @muckster4145
    @muckster4145 5 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    Carburetion AKA "metered fuel leak"

    • @DavidCarmichaelEVO
      @DavidCarmichaelEVO 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      In high school we were challenged to design carbs that used larger venturi to equal Fuel Infection in cars. Couldnt escape the physics of Air Fuel mixture and the instructor laughed us out of there for thinking we ever had a chance. Of course he had a degree and we operated on the bigger is always better approach including the intake and ram air. Lesson learned in that the packard merlin was the best inline system ever created.

  • @elmacko4709
    @elmacko4709 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    How come I missed this channel... Instant sub. Nice work sir

  • @kirkmorrison6131
    @kirkmorrison6131 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video, I have had to explain it to buddies several time. I will just refer them to this video next time.

  • @Dristdin82
    @Dristdin82 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Haha love the cobra reference I was waiting for it.

  • @luvr381
    @luvr381 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Wasn't the largest engine available in the smallest airframe also the thought behind the Corsair? Yet it has much more range.

    • @jengelson
      @jengelson 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      are you sure? the F4U has twice the weight of a Bf 109G
      the F4U is a much larger aircraft than the 109

    • @luvr381
      @luvr381 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jengelson Corsair has a much larger engine, 46 liters, vs the 109s 34 liters.

    • @jengelson
      @jengelson 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@luvr381 the bigger plane can take more fuel, that's all it is

    • @luvr381
      @luvr381 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jengelson Pretty much, plus carry more ordnance.

  • @bluthammer1442
    @bluthammer1442 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I'm really enjoying your technical coverage of the 109's. Big fan of the aircraft, but not too savvy on the finer details - your videos make it very easy to understand. Very much hope you will do more of these. It really is very valuable. Thanks.

  • @martentrudeau6948
    @martentrudeau6948 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Always interesting, thanks Greg.

  • @NotDumbassable
    @NotDumbassable 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Would love to hear about the Junkers Jumo 213‘s supercharger inlet guide vanes. They somehow reduce the loss of supercharger efficiency at altitudes below critical altitude.

  • @jeanmarcgalzy7747
    @jeanmarcgalzy7747 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Bonjour mon ami Greg félicitations de FRANCE pour ta vidéo 👍🇫🇷
    Hello my friend Greg thanks for sharings 👍awesome Messerschmitt 109 💪 I enjoy watching your video 😎congrats buddy good day of France 👍🇫🇷

  • @khuret1773
    @khuret1773 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This Channel is Awesome. Informative

  • @richardbcot3040
    @richardbcot3040 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    thank you very much for great video on bf 109

  • @tdevosodense
    @tdevosodense 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Great videos 👍 can you make a video about the super Corsair ? (The Major Wasp engine)

  • @ecovictor2611
    @ecovictor2611 5 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    11:50 Juan Manuel Fangio with the Mercedes-Benz W196 at French Grand Prix in 1954

  • @haroldwaig2242
    @haroldwaig2242 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    THE ACT OF KINDNESS & HUMANITY!! AND A GREAT STORY...THANK YOU BOTH

  • @johnhickman4646
    @johnhickman4646 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very thorough explanation of both fuel delivery systems and benefits of mechanical injection over carbies. I look forward to the explanation of why the 109 was so much slower than the Mustang D, though there are many variables. Good job! A+

  • @13aceofspades13
    @13aceofspades13 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    1# reason I like your videos.
    You aren't sprouting crap, you back up your claims with research! again keep this content rolling!

  • @MhmmdAydn
    @MhmmdAydn 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    An other educational video with nice English, thanks

  • @TroyaE117
    @TroyaE117 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Superb video. Very well explained indeed.

  • @robertkopp873
    @robertkopp873 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    A well balanced presentation. Thank you.

  • @AbdiPianoChannel
    @AbdiPianoChannel 5 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    The Me Bf 109 the sexiest fuel injection fighter plane ever.

  • @Jack29151
    @Jack29151 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    the 109 also had the ability to add drop tanks. but the weight would sacrifice the loadout.

  • @cf6282
    @cf6282 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you for this nice explanation! Fun to see you mention the Fokker DXXI. It did serve well in the Netherlands (my home country) shooting down more planes than the Germans ever expected. But we lost it on the ground quickly. Range was adequate for our country, as it is very small indeed. The DXXI however was never intended to be used in the Dutch East Indies. It was a Dutch colony in those days. Size wise it is huge with many hundreds of Islands to be defended. The Brewster Buffalo was selected and some 70 aircraft were operational during the Japanse invasion. Although a stiff fight was put up downing a number of bombers and even Zero fighters. They Dutch never stood a chance and were run over by the Japanese. Fun to see that the Fins used both the Fokker DXXI and the Brewster.

  • @jacksavage197
    @jacksavage197 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video. Thorough content.

  • @machia0705
    @machia0705 5 ปีที่แล้ว +165

    An RAF pilot was being interviewed by the BBC about the Battle of Britain and he went on to say those Germans were real “fukers” in which the BBC interviewer immediately interrupted and said; “ What the RAF pilot in my studio is actually referring to are Fokkers, a type of German aircraft ”, in which the RAF pilot immediately responded back saying; “Oh no, those Fukers were Messerschmitts” !

    • @kieskop4684
      @kieskop4684 5 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Fokkers are Dutch

    • @machia0705
      @machia0705 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Kies Kop
      You obviously don’t know history.

    • @kieskop4684
      @kieskop4684 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      @@machia0705 Im Dutch ,i know our history : )

    • @BuzzLOLOL
      @BuzzLOLOL 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      My brother told me that joke back in the 1960's...

    • @machia0705
      @machia0705 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      BuzzLOLOL lol !!!
      My Father told that joke every year, my Dad was in WW2, all my uncles too. Navy, Army, Air Corp.
      Old joke, lol..

  • @medicisdad1
    @medicisdad1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I'm a professional technical trainer. Good job! - Both with the content and the delivery.

  • @johnmichaelgavin3617
    @johnmichaelgavin3617 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for all the videos lately. I enjoy them as always. Any thoughts on doing a video on the F-82 twin mustang, or the Macchi C.205? Looking forward to the next video.

  • @v44n7
    @v44n7 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    first video that I saw on your channel! you have a new sub :D! I loved the non-bias to any particular country and full information on p51, spitfires and the 109!

    • @GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles
      @GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles  5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks. This is sort of an odd one for a first video to watch on this channel, but I do really appreciate you showing up and subscribing.

    • @v44n7
      @v44n7 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@GregsAirplanesandAutomobiles I founded the topic really interesting as a Il:2 player I got to learn many lf the concept about world war ll planes. But your videos (I watched a couple already) are really technical and complex (Something that I love on YT) but really easy to digest at the same time!

  • @user-xh1lr3yo3y
    @user-xh1lr3yo3y 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    First, thank you for the video. I didn't fully understand all of it, but it was still very informative. Next, my comment. If you think about it, flying 400 miles on 100 gallons of fuel comes out to about 4 miles to the gallon. which is incredibly efficient, especially considering the air drag at that high speed. Not just 109, but all those airplanes are engineering marvels.

    • @davidbristow69
      @davidbristow69 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You have to consider the drag at the altitude and speed specified for those fuel usage figures. The reduced air pressure at high altitude leads to drag figures that are the same as the drag at lower speeds at low altitude.

    • @taggartlawfirm
      @taggartlawfirm 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      내가 조국이다. 내가싸운다. Well, that’s an average. You burn a whole lot more fuel on take off and climb.

  • @cbearabc
    @cbearabc 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    That what they say about most early jets, a engine with fuel wrapped around it.

  • @generalmacarthur979
    @generalmacarthur979 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Greg's comment on the Bf109 being a earier generation of fighter compared to the P-51 is key to understanding the differences.
    Another clear and concise report Greg!

  • @Endorphins27
    @Endorphins27 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Subscribed! Thank you for your time

  • @AudieHolland
    @AudieHolland 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Most importantly, in my opinion, more power means tactical advantage. BF-109s were renowned for starting combat from an advantageous position because of German fighter tactics which were enabled by the more powerfull engine. When they started running low on fuel, they (if flown by an experienced pilot) could also disengage from combat and head for home without having to worry being shot in the back. Although quite a few miscalculated or got caught up in combat that they had to ditch in the Channel.
    The weakest point in the BF-109 design was the flimsy undercarriage. It is stated somewhere that the Germans lost more BF-109s due to rookie pilots crashing on take-off and landing and even during taxiing.

  • @bg147
    @bg147 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Such a beautiful plane. The only ones I would pick as possibly better looking are the Serie 5 Italian fighters with the Macchi C205 Greyhound looking the coolest with the camo.

    • @AndrewLale
      @AndrewLale 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      If by beautiful you mean grimly functional...

  • @jumo004
    @jumo004 5 ปีที่แล้ว

    Another very excellent video, thank you sir.

  • @italovernazza4758
    @italovernazza4758 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank-you for an outstanding study.

  • @Alexmcgruer3
    @Alexmcgruer3 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    A German friend (Who served with the Luftwaffe) busied himself telling me how the 109 was a much better plane than the Spitfire.
    the problem with the Meschersmite is while fighting in the Battle of Britain it was at the edges of its range whereas the Spits and Hurricanes were fresh out of the barn and didn't have to keep a reserve of fuel to make it home. Britain is a small populous place: all they had to do was go down and find an airfield.
    This fell to a teaching of Sun Tzu who said: "Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted."
    The 109's were already depleted so had limited time or fuel for a fight.

  • @mrjon1985
    @mrjon1985 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thanks for the chat. Underhead cams, lol.

  • @George-bz1fi
    @George-bz1fi 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Once again, nicely done.

  • @groomlake51
    @groomlake51 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Greetings !!!! Why must I binge watch your channel 🤣 I have way too much work to get done. Thanks for the entertainment!! Even if it’s killing my productivity

  • @ragazzi25
    @ragazzi25 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    one of my favorite airplanes from WWII...

  • @LarryisControversial3000
    @LarryisControversial3000 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    No replacement for displacement, this is a very old rule for power in performance anything. Never thought to apply it directly to how quickly I want to suck the go-go juice out of my tank.
    Great video with explanations simplified just enough for the less educated of your aviation nerd viewers (like myself) to get better educated.
    I have a question that you may covered already in another video,
    Fuel range in my understanding of it, is the distance to point and back to start with 10-20 percent reserved fuel to loiter at point for a time. Is this the basic definition as you use it?
    If so then the 109 had amazing fuel economy, significantly better than most planes of the time it sounds like. Just had the problems of parasitic loss that was high. If you translate range into mpg, the 109 got 9mpg with such a massive engine. I barely get 12mpg in my ford f350 on a very good day, with 1/5 of the engine. And yes I know that the comparisons aren't straight foward like this.

    • @julianfell666
      @julianfell666 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      The allies had access to high octane fuel and could run the merlins at much higher compression/manifold boost. This gives more power for same quantity of fuel. P-51 was slippery, wing thickness moved rearward a bit (trade off was less lift per area) and the exhaust system was configured to provide thrust.

  • @HerraTohtori
    @HerraTohtori 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video.
    If I recall correctly, the Bf 109 E (and early F-model) range issues during Battle of Britain had a lot to do with how the Luftwaffe used them.
    Part of it was of course the operative limitations of the Bf 109. It was designed as a short range interceptor, prioritizing speed and especially climb rate. This it did very well, but long range it did not have. The Spitfire, of course, was designed based on very similar specification (short range interceptor), and like you said it's not surprising that the performance of early Spitfires (Mk.I and Mk.II) and the Bf 109 E-models is pretty neck and neck in most regards, though the Spitfire had more upgrade potential (being a newer design). But both aircraft could cross the English Channel and have a bash over enemy territory without immediate concern over fuel endurance - if that was the only thing they were doing.
    First big issue for the Bf 109 was that the fighter escorts sometimes had to loiter around the bombers when they were assembling into formations and climbing to mission altitude somewhere over France. It was not particularly streamlined mission planning at work. Then, during flight over the English Channel, the fighters were ordered to stay near the bombers, flying at speeds and altitudes that were not optimal for them. This also seriously limited the fighters' effectiveness against British interceptors, since they didn't really have the energy necessary to respond to approaching enemies in time. A big part of this was that Hermann Göring insisted that the fighters had to fly near the bombers instead of "abandoning them" or something - Göring at that point was more interested in his own political career, and mainly tried to use the Luftwaffe to make himself look good. It didn't really work that way, particularly in Battle of Britain.
    As a result, the Bf 109s suffered from their limited range worse than they should have during the Battle of Britain. Interestingly I haven't seen mentions of the limited range being a big deal in other operating theatres such as Eastern Front or North Africa, so maybe they simply started using drop tanks and made better use of the range they had - and of course if they did run out of fuel over land, they could make a forced landing and recover the aircraft if it was on occupied territory. And the pilots were much more likely to survive running out of fuel over land than over sea.

  • @georgegordon6630
    @georgegordon6630 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Well, unless I am mistaken, the British had the same problem at Dunqurque There was not effective air cover because the Spitfires and Hurricanes were low on fuel as soon as they got to the beach. What makes me think is the war in the pacific, the theater was SO much bigger