Rolls-Royce Merlin Engine Old Video

The engines used in the P-51 were Packard Merlins, built by the Packard automobile company. They were of a derivative design, with changes to allow the use of American production standards and tooling. Very similar engines, but mostly not interchangeable parts. Both types were excellent engines, especially considering the high volume wartime production by hordes of quickly trained workers, male and female, who had never been near that type of work before. It is always amazing to me the things that can be done in wartime but not in peacetime. A common focus by the nation seems to be the key to success.

Also note that huge amounts of waste, over production, pollution and dangerous workplace practices, graft, and other negative outcomes like widespread gruesome death are also byproducts of wars. Nobody really "wins."
 
I liked that video, great shots of parts being made
Reminded me of the Manhattan project, and Rosie the riveter
 
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