My first flight was with my mother and my newborn sister on a Constellation in July or August of 1959 on a flight from Seattle to Anchorage as a small boy! Pacific Northwest Airlines. I’ll never forget the start up and the blue smoke! The seats so big with white linen head rest covers, not these little things you sit in nowadays on the Jets! Charles Schultz I believe was on a fishing trip to Alaska and drew my picture I wish I kept it ! What a great time to be alive I’ll never forget it!
What a wonderful sight. Obviously there aren't as many still airworthy as classic airliner fans like myself would hope to see but, thank God, there are a few still flying and the Save-A-Connie is a fantastic example of that. On behalf of all of us who love that era of commercial aviation, thanks to all the folks who helped restore this plane AND who continue to treat people at airshows with her beaty and grace. And thanks, too, for this post.
This is priceless footage. Thank you for shooting it. I live in St. Louis...I've had the pleasure of making several trips to Kansas City to see this bird. Well worth every trip.
oh it brings back such great memories when I was a kid in the late 50s and early 60s when they flew overhead; music to my ears pushin' up those 3350s, damn !!!
One of the most beautiful planes ever designed. I was able to be aboard one from the west coast to Washington DC when TWA was flying them. A wonderful flight experience. Great video.
Boy this takes you back. I can still smell that 70 weight oil smoke they used to belch out on starting. I ran that same oil in my 66 GTO and never had a single engine problem. Of coarse you couldn't use it in the cold weather months. These Connies were terrific airliners.
Ahh, memories... I flew on Connies when I was a kid and always remembered her sleek beauty and the kind stewardess who gave me Chicklets and gold junior pilot wings. Also, once the pilots flew the entire route with the cabin door open, knowing that we kids were fascinated by it all.
When i was just kid, I was fortunate to have flown in quite a few resip aircraft. I do recall flying on a Connie once. I just loved riding on these planes. How about Icelandic Air Lines..they had these old DC-4's.. Gothenburg to Iceland to NYC..Scary thought now at 62. I alway,s loved the engine run ups before take off. Full brakes and wide open..WOW ! I was truly sad at about 9 years old when the 707 and DC8's came into service. Radials forever.
Excellent video, I came across the factory booklet on those engines. It claimed that the compound turbos were returning 1200 hp to the main engine which is amazing for their size and the excellent installation.
@ROCKSTARCRANE World Samplers operated two L-1649A Starliners. First was N7301C, which was replaced a few months later by N7321C. They both were originally delivered to TWA.
@realvanman1 You are correct! It is called a synchroscope. The "twirly things" represent the engine RPM of engines #2, 3, and 4. They move in relationship to the #1 engine. The synchroscope is used in flight to assist in sychronizing the RPM of the engines. So, after reducing power to say, 160 BMEP and 2000 RPM, the RPM will be approximately 2000; however, #1 might be at 1990, #2 at 2020, #3 at 2010, and #4 might be turning 1950. The synchroscope helps the F/E make the final adjustment.
not a problem man, just happened to be checking my email when you posted...and just a bit further clarification reading back on what I posted a bit ago, there are three PRTs per engine, one for each stack. Each one boosts the total output by roughly 300 hp. and again the flame on takeoff, the engines are pulling 51 inches manifold pressure and that is a lot of fuel to be sure. the flames are normal. Be in touch if you want to know more!
actually both of you are half right, the R3350 has what is called a power recovery turbine, which reclaims the energy of the exhaust gases, not unburnt gas. In other words, as the exhaust rushes out of the stack, it spins basically a turbocharger that is connected to the main crank, boosting hp. The oil does pool which creates the smoke that you see on startup, but you will notice it clears out pretty quickly, the raw flame you see is simply exhaust
The Connie is one of the most beautiful airplanes in the world! My concern is that that engine appears to be running lean at full power and the flickering flames indicate a possible carburetor problem. I have seen these color flames on other Connies on take-off and feel they may be running too lean. But what a powerful aircraft!! A true sky hot rod!
Hi Kylemontanaro...this is normal for the Connie R3350 radial engines..in fact normal for all radial piston engines. Fuel & oil can collect in the lower cilinders and fuel lines and can come in contact with the hot exhuast creating flames.
The Flight Engineer had to have "the touch" to light those big radials off without blowing a jug or setting one on fire. Those things burned purple gas, 115/145 octane. They don't make that stuff anymore. Those airplanes were a real challenge to fly. Jets are boring. Those were the glory days of aviation, and the Connie is arguably the most beautiful airplane ever built.
@nathanamorley For several reasons. On the Constellation, the brakes obtain system hydraulic pressure from #3 and #4 engines. On the DC-4/6/7, the brakes obtain system pressure from the #3 and #2 engines (Sorry, I don't know about the B-377). Hence, starting #3 engine will always provide brake pressure. It's desireable to start the port engines last because it allows maximum time for the entrance doors on the left side to be accessible. I formerly flew as F/E and F/O on DC-4/6/7s and Connies
@vintagepropguy . On 115/145 fuel, each PRT produces 150 BHP, or 450 BHP per engine, at 3250 BHP take-off power, more at 3400 BHP. On 100/130, figure about 132 BHP each. Each PRT is fed by six cylinders (18 cylinders divided by 3 PRTs=6)
@mprophet100 read the comments re the turbo-compound stack flames, that's correct. This is only normal though, for that engine. The Pratt & Whitney R-2800's of the DC-6's and Convairliners did not flame like this. In fact, if they did, there's a problem, starting with a fuel mixture that was too rich.
@CaptJackSpeed I'm pretty sure if they had her fueled up with 115/145 octane avgas,as it was originally designed to use, you'd see a nice purple flame. I'm pretty sure they're only running 100/130 low lead which means they can't use full super charger boost. They're probably loosing 600 hp per engine running with those settings and fuel. The R3350 engines on this aircraft are direct fuel injected not carburetored.
I flew, with my mom, younger brother and younger sister, from Hamilton AFB-San Francisco, to Clark AFB-Luzon Island, The Philippines in a Super Connie! I was 11 year's old and we landed at Hickam AFB, Oahu. Several hours later, we boarded, again, and left to continue our flight. We had been over the ocean nearly an hour, when the inboard port engine--next to where I was sitting at the window--caught fire and the pilots feathered it. They, then, feathered the opposite engine on the starboard side. I was taking pictures like there was no tomorrow, with my Kodak Instamatic 110. The crew ordered us to don Mae Wests and just wait for the Navy Fighters to surround us and escort us back to Hickam. When we deplaned, a stewardess confiscated my camera and never returned it! For a week, we resided as guests at Fort Derusey on Waikiki Beach. During that time, a new engine was shipped from the mainland and installed. Previously, we had all lived in Kaneohe, near the Marine Base, on the leeward side of the island. Dad was a fighter pilot and a test pilot, at Hickam, for almost two years. Honolulu was not a new adventure. As our flight progressed, we stopped at Kwajalein atoll and then Midway Island, flying over a huge military ship sunk up on the beach. I don't remember landing at Clark. I suppose it was night and we were all zonked out from that lonnnnnng flight. The Constellations were under contract flying Military Air Transport (MATS). I'd give most anything to fly her, again.
@barthoedemaker Original fuel recommended: 100/130 for R3350-BA series and -BD series engines; 115/145 for R3350 CA, CB, DA, EA series and their military equivalents.
I was eating lunch in Lake Mary when this thing first left Orlando. I heard ROUND engines, looked up, and there it was! It had a hydraulic problem on that flight I think.
@Propliner1955 thanks for the clarification on that, I am more a nut and bolt type of guy, I do understand the role of the PRT's, and can explain them more on laymens' terms. I am really excited to see this kind of discussion on propliners, by all means be in touch, and that goes to all here!
@aussiepaul44 Yes. Would be helpful if the 145 was still out there. My dad said it was once available at the gas station. It will be a sad day when 100/130 disappears. That will make things tough for us roundy round lovers. Hopefully there will be an equivalent offered. I love the TC-18 R-3350 and have begun to study it in depth. Was a great engine. More than likely, the summit of piston engine development. The lower power setting probably dont affect them too much. I bet they fly pretty light.
At 2:27 when they show the engineer's station (forgive my terminology) what is the small gauge in the middle of the three smaller gauges with the twirly things in it? Is that used to determine if the different engines are running at different speeds or ?? Very, very cool video and aircraft by the way, thanks for posting.
he volado este avion en los años 1967 ..70 es un pajaro en el aire y sus motores doble estrella con turbo le dan una potencia de 2500 hp x cuatro su estructura era fuerte y sus alas se desplazaban en turbulencia sus helices electricas .... y los pilotos dependiamos mucho del ingeniero de vuelo,,,,,,creo el mejor avion de los pistoneros
@Propliner1955 I think on earlier planes it was so, like a B-17... does the Connie have P&W 4360's? Just had a story on tv of 50th anniversary of a connie crashing here in Richmond with over 70 new ARMY recruits killed, two crew survivors... they had mismanaged the fuel flow
Lo que me impresiona de este hermoso avión es el fuego que larga de los motores. Digo yo: no es peligroso esto o está diseñado así? sin problemas digamos....
@irish89055 Permit me to say that, before asking a question as you did on the engine type installed on a Connie, it is best to do a slight bit of research--such as Wikipedia or even looking at earlier posts. Otherwise you stand to create a little embarrassment for yourself. As to the Richmond accident, yes, the student flight engineer and his instructor mismanaged the fuel system. Then, the co-pilot's actions sealed its fate. Company was Imperial Airlines, and it was an 049 series Connie.
I really know why they call that plane the Super Constellation, cause it's totally out of this world........somehow those pods that are on the ends of the wings, think you should have had those painted the same color as the wings themselves, the way they are now makes them look like they were just added to the plane and they don't blend in to the color of the wings.....but it's still a awesome plane no matter what
They WERE just added on to the plane; and they could be removed. You will have to speak to each of the airlines about their choice of color of the tanks.
My first flight was with my mother and my newborn sister on a Constellation in July or August of 1959 on a flight from Seattle to Anchorage as a small boy! Pacific Northwest Airlines. I’ll never forget the start up and the blue smoke! The seats so big with white linen head rest covers, not these little things you sit in nowadays on the Jets! Charles Schultz I believe was on a fishing trip to Alaska and drew my picture I wish I kept it ! What a great time to be alive I’ll never forget it!
A great video of the most beautiful passenger plane ever built...nothing compares, at all.
Thank you sir, for a fantastic trip back in time!
The Concorde is the most beautiful passenger plane ever built...nothing compares, at all.
There was no better way to fly than on a Super Constellation! Used to watch them flying over our house, on their approach to PIT.
What a wonderful sight. Obviously there aren't as many still airworthy as classic airliner fans like myself would hope to see but, thank God, there are a few still flying and the Save-A-Connie is a fantastic example of that. On behalf of all of us who love that era of commercial aviation, thanks to all the folks who helped restore this plane AND who continue to treat people at airshows with her beaty and grace. And thanks, too, for this post.
This is priceless footage. Thank you for shooting it. I live in St. Louis...I've had the pleasure of making several trips to Kansas City to see this bird. Well worth every trip.
Outstanding video. Probably one of the best 'start up' of the fabulous Connie. Top video. Love the flames....
I would only fly again if i could go up in a Connie ! Most Beautiful aircraft ever built !!!
oh it brings back such great memories when I was a kid in the late 50s and early 60s when they flew overhead; music to my ears pushin' up those 3350s, damn !!!
triplanelover '
One of the most beautiful planes ever designed. I was able to be aboard one from the west coast to Washington DC when TWA was flying them. A wonderful flight experience. Great video.
Boy this takes you back. I can still smell that 70 weight oil smoke they used to belch out on starting. I ran that same oil in my 66 GTO and never had a single engine problem. Of coarse you couldn't use it in the cold weather months. These Connies were terrific airliners.
dam.... i love that sound.....i wish i could fly with this "baby"....ty for sharing
Ahh, memories... I flew on Connies when I was a kid and always remembered her sleek beauty and the kind stewardess who gave me Chicklets and gold junior pilot wings. Also, once the pilots flew the entire route with the cabin door open, knowing that we kids were fascinated by it all.
When i was just kid, I was fortunate to have flown in quite a few resip aircraft. I do recall flying on a Connie once. I just loved riding on these planes. How about Icelandic Air Lines..they had these old DC-4's..
Gothenburg to Iceland to NYC..Scary thought now at 62. I alway,s loved the engine run ups before take off.
Full brakes and wide open..WOW ! I was truly sad at about 9 years old when the 707 and DC8's came into service. Radials forever.
Excellent video, I came across the factory booklet on those engines. It claimed that the compound turbos were returning 1200 hp to the main engine which is amazing
for their size and the excellent installation.
Had the honour to fly in the Conny last week. Fantastic. But you caught the better exhaus flames on your vid.
I Love the Super Conny there is no more a beautiful airplane like this
@ROCKSTARCRANE World Samplers operated two L-1649A Starliners. First was N7301C, which was replaced a few months later by N7321C. They both were originally delivered to TWA.
@realvanman1 You are correct! It is called a synchroscope. The "twirly things" represent the engine RPM of engines #2, 3, and 4. They move in relationship to the #1 engine. The synchroscope is used in flight to assist in sychronizing the RPM of the engines. So, after reducing power to say, 160 BMEP and 2000 RPM, the RPM will be approximately 2000; however, #1 might be at 1990, #2 at 2020, #3 at 2010, and #4 might be turning 1950. The synchroscope helps the F/E make the final adjustment.
The sound of the propellers is simply romantic and majestic.
not a problem man, just happened to be checking my email when you posted...and just a bit further clarification reading back on what I posted a bit ago, there are three PRTs per engine, one for each stack. Each one boosts the total output by roughly 300 hp. and again the flame on takeoff, the engines are pulling 51 inches manifold pressure and that is a lot of fuel to be sure. the flames are normal. Be in touch if you want to know more!
actually both of you are half right, the R3350 has what is called a power recovery turbine, which reclaims the energy of the exhaust gases, not unburnt gas. In other words, as the exhaust rushes out of the stack, it spins basically a turbocharger that is connected to the main crank, boosting hp. The oil does pool which creates the smoke that you see on startup, but you will notice it clears out pretty quickly, the raw flame you see is simply exhaust
The Connie is one of the most beautiful airplanes in the world! My concern is that that engine appears to be running lean at full power and the flickering flames indicate a possible carburetor problem. I have seen these color flames on other Connies on take-off and feel they may be running too lean.
But what a powerful aircraft!! A true sky hot rod!
Wonderful video. Thanks very much for sharing.
Hi Kylemontanaro...this is normal for the Connie R3350 radial engines..in fact normal for all radial piston engines. Fuel & oil can collect in the lower cilinders and fuel lines and can come in contact with the hot exhuast creating flames.
The Flight Engineer had to have "the touch" to light those big radials off without blowing a jug or setting one on fire. Those things burned purple gas, 115/145 octane. They don't make that stuff anymore. Those airplanes were a real challenge to fly. Jets are boring. Those were the glory days of aviation, and the Connie is arguably the most beautiful airplane ever built.
@nathanamorley For several reasons. On the Constellation, the brakes obtain system hydraulic pressure from #3 and #4 engines. On the DC-4/6/7, the brakes obtain system pressure from the #3 and #2 engines (Sorry, I don't know about the B-377). Hence, starting #3 engine will always provide brake pressure. It's desireable to start the port engines last because it allows maximum time for the entrance doors on the left side to be accessible. I formerly flew as F/E and F/O on DC-4/6/7s and Connies
Propliner1955 are you still active on UA-cam? I know this comment was 6 years ago haha
@vintagepropguy . On 115/145 fuel, each PRT produces 150 BHP, or 450 BHP per engine, at 3250 BHP take-off power, more at 3400 BHP. On 100/130, figure about 132 BHP each. Each PRT is fed by six cylinders (18 cylinders divided by 3 PRTs=6)
God Almighty Himself must have helped design this airplane. There's never been a more beautiful flying machine.
If you treat this Lady right,
She'll reward you with hours of smooth sailing. Never mistreat her and she'll purr like a kitten.Thats Connie.
The sound of round
Simply beautiful, thnx for sharing.
@mprophet100 read the comments re the turbo-compound stack flames, that's correct. This is only normal though, for that engine. The Pratt & Whitney R-2800's of the DC-6's and Convairliners did not flame like this. In fact, if they did, there's a problem, starting with a fuel mixture that was too rich.
this is my most favorite constellation vid on youtube!
love this plane
@CaptJackSpeed I'm pretty sure if they had her fueled up with 115/145 octane avgas,as it was originally designed to use, you'd see a nice purple flame. I'm pretty sure they're only running 100/130 low lead which means they can't use full super charger boost. They're probably loosing 600 hp per engine running with those settings and fuel. The R3350 engines on this aircraft are direct fuel injected not carburetored.
omfg, I would give anything to fly in a Constellation
I flew, with my mom, younger brother and younger sister, from Hamilton AFB-San Francisco, to Clark AFB-Luzon Island, The Philippines in a Super Connie!
I was 11 year's old and we landed at Hickam AFB, Oahu. Several hours later, we boarded, again, and left to continue our flight.
We had been over the ocean nearly an hour, when the inboard port engine--next to where I was sitting at the window--caught fire and the pilots feathered it. They, then, feathered the opposite engine on the starboard side.
I was taking pictures like there was no tomorrow, with my Kodak Instamatic 110. The crew ordered us to don Mae Wests and just wait for the Navy Fighters to surround us and escort us back to Hickam.
When we deplaned, a stewardess confiscated my camera and never returned it!
For a week, we resided as guests at Fort Derusey on Waikiki Beach.
During that time, a new engine was shipped from the mainland and installed.
Previously, we had all lived in Kaneohe, near the Marine Base, on the leeward side of the island.
Dad was a fighter pilot and a test pilot, at Hickam, for almost two years. Honolulu was not a new adventure.
As our flight progressed, we stopped at Kwajalein atoll and then Midway Island, flying over a huge military ship sunk up on the beach.
I don't remember landing at Clark. I suppose it was night and we were all zonked out from that lonnnnnng flight.
The Constellations were under contract flying Military Air Transport (MATS).
I'd give most anything to fly her, again.
@barthoedemaker Original fuel recommended: 100/130 for R3350-BA series and -BD series engines; 115/145 for R3350 CA, CB, DA, EA series and their military equivalents.
I was eating lunch in Lake Mary when this thing first left Orlando. I heard ROUND engines, looked up, and there it was! It had a hydraulic problem on that flight I think.
@Propliner1955 thanks for the clarification on that, I am more a nut and bolt type of guy, I do understand the role of the PRT's, and can explain them more on laymens' terms. I am really excited to see this kind of discussion on propliners, by all means be in touch, and that goes to all here!
@vexviper The normal start up sequence on a Connie (and DC-4/6/7) is 3,4,2,1.
@CaptJackSpeed 115/145 is produced in limited quantity each year for the Reno Air Race and, perhaps some other races.
VERY..BEAUTIFUL ..😉👌👌
Que peligro volar en este avion con ese chorro de candela saliendo por los motores, creo que es una exposicion de la vida.
@vintagepropguy thanks for that clarification. Had no idea.
Awesome Vidoe! Thankyou
@aussiepaul44 Yes. Would be helpful if the 145 was still out there. My dad said it was once available at the gas station. It will be a sad day when 100/130 disappears. That will make things tough for us roundy round lovers. Hopefully there will be an equivalent offered. I love the TC-18 R-3350 and have begun to study it in depth. Was a great engine. More than likely, the summit of piston engine development. The lower power setting probably dont affect them too much. I bet they fly pretty light.
Why do these propeller planes usually start the number three engine first?
This is the last plane operating under TWA's colorscheme.
Excellent Vid. Thanks!
@neverboardproduction
These engines' power recovery turbines might be the major cause. Note that the flames are also visible at high rpm.
Hi 2kx2..yes I have heard that before....cheers
What's the original fuel ron recommended for these engines in that era? 115?
At 2:27 when they show the engineer's station (forgive my terminology) what is the small gauge in the middle of the three smaller gauges with the twirly things in it? Is that used to determine if the different engines are running at different speeds or ??
Very, very cool video and aircraft by the way, thanks for posting.
I love the part where the fire comes out! :-D
I wonder if the mixture is too rich. Also, the exhaust valves must be operating under brutal conditions!
@mprophet100 yea, if you don't see those flames, that means something's wrong
Le plus belle avion du monde
THX...no problem
@irish89055 EVERY engine on a Connie is equipped with a generator.
How did you get a ride on that Connie?
built in the day of "Emissions? fuck emissions" I miss em.
Nice vid man 8-)
he volado este avion en los años 1967 ..70 es un pajaro en el aire y sus motores doble estrella con turbo le dan una potencia de 2500 hp x cuatro su estructura era fuerte y sus alas se desplazaban en turbulencia sus helices electricas .... y los pilotos dependiamos mucho del ingeniero de vuelo,,,,,,creo el mejor avion de los pistoneros
@Propliner1955 I think on earlier planes it was so, like a B-17... does the Connie have P&W 4360's? Just had a story on tv of 50th anniversary of a connie crashing here in Richmond with over 70 new ARMY recruits killed, two crew survivors... they had mismanaged the fuel flow
What is this massive white smoke on engine start? Oil, steam, or something else? It is not seen normally on automotive engines' start.
Maksim Holtzman oil smoke
There is a fire from the engine on left wing
@nathanamorley I belive that is where the generator is..
Awesome ... :-)
This connie is still earth bound.....sadly...but is in great shape in order to fly
Lo que me impresiona de este hermoso avión es el fuego que larga de los motores. Digo yo: no es peligroso esto o está diseñado así? sin problemas digamos....
what do you mean sadly?! the super constallation was one of the best airliners in the world!
Great video, awesome sound!
The Constellation is my favourite of the last generation propliners.
Is this Connie still alive and flying?
classic air travel
Nice
Was that the Connie associated with the "World Samplers" club?
@Propliner1955 thanks
classic
@Propliner1955I challenge you what's the start up sequence?
its true
Spitfire Exhaust
That was a heavy H and had EA cylinders didn't it?
FIRE 😨😨😨😨??
@irish89055 Permit me to say that, before asking a question as you did on the engine type installed on a Connie, it is best to do a slight bit of research--such as Wikipedia or even looking at earlier posts. Otherwise you stand to create a little embarrassment for yourself. As to the Richmond accident, yes, the student flight engineer and his instructor mismanaged the fuel system. Then, the co-pilot's actions sealed its fate.
Company was Imperial Airlines, and it was an 049 series Connie.
I really know why they call that plane the Super Constellation, cause it's totally out of this world........somehow those pods that are on the ends of the wings, think you should have had those painted the same color as the wings themselves, the way they are now makes them look like they were just added to the plane and they don't blend in to the color of the wings.....but it's still a awesome plane no matter what
They WERE just added on to the plane; and they could be removed. You will have to speak to each of the airlines about their choice of color of the tanks.
The "pods" you mentioned are wingtip fuel tanks that were added on later models to give the plane east to west coast (U.S.) range.
You seem to assume that the videographer owns the plane??
Fogo na bomba
Salen llamas del motor
Keras. Apa. Mesinnnya
classic