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The Wittman D-12 "Bonzo" was an air racer designed by Steve Wittman for the Thompson Trophy races. The aircraft's top speed of 325 mph (523 km/h) made it faster than any United States military aircraft of the era.
Contents
Development
Wittman purchased a Curtiss D-12 engine in 1934, and designed "Bonzo" around it. In 1936, a spring steel landing gear was installed. In 1937 a ducted fan was added to the spinner inlet, flaps were added and wingspan was reduced to 17 ft (5 m). Ram air was added for the carburetors, and modified several times to get even fuel pressure.
Design
"Bonzo" featured a mid-winged taildragger design with a small squarish cross-section. The aircraft was finished in red and silver, like Wittman's smaller racer "Chief Oshkosh". The spinner featured a center cut-out to provide cooling air to a radiator. The wings were made of wood with aircraft fabric covering and closely spaced wing ribs.
Operational history
"Bonzo" was not ready for the 1934 National Air Races in time.
The D-12 engine was sold to the Falin Propeller Co. for propeller testing throughout World War II.
Variants
Aircraft on display
The D-12 "Bonzo" was donated by Wittman to anchor the EAA Airventure Museum in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in December 1959, it was later restored for display in 1982.
Specifications (Wittman D-12 Bonzo)
Data from Sport Aviation
General characteristics
Performance