I've been casting about for the last month or so accumulating research for an Italeri's 1/35 PT build. Naturally, I started with the internet.
I've visited the PT at New Bedford, Mass., and, through a several decades interest, have formed what I thought was a reasonably well informed image of the boat's major features. The motors, of course, were Packards..., eh?
I have now read that the engines were, in fact, Packard's tweaking of the Rolls-Royce "Merlin" engine in an attempt (quite successful, it appears) to convert the British hand fitted design to Detroit's mass production methodology.
While this is an appealing notion, and creditable to both sides of the pond, I wonder if anyone can direct me to confirmation of this assertion.
Before someone points out that this request of mine far surpasses any reasonable model building need, let me say that the research is, for me, half the fun.
Additionally, if anyone knows of a kit or plans for the Merlin itself, I would be delighted to learn of it.
Many thanks.
Wally.