XAU-1 (BuAer 124665)

[Ribellu2043]

Hello everyone from France,

A question for Dana Bell and all Corsair enthusiasts.

Is the XAU-1 (BuAer 124665) an F4U-5, F4U-5N, or F4U-5NL?
In the book "US NAVY serials 1941 to 1976" by Merseyside Aviation Society Publications, it states: "BuAer 124665-124560 (60), all but the last 15 were F4U-5NL." Other documents indicate an F4U-5N or simply an F4U-5.

Thank you for your help,
Best regards,
Ribellu2043
(Google translation)

 

[mjfur]

The Joe Baugher site indicates it was originally planned as a -5N, US Navy and US Marine Corps BuNos--Third Series (120342 to 126256)

124665/124709 Vought-Sikorsky F4U-5N Corsair
Vought-Sikorsky Model V-1668
124665 converted to XF4U-6 low-altitude fighter prototype, later redesignated XAU-1

I would doubt that this airframe came down the production line and was actually finished as a -5N or -5NL before the decision to convert to the XAU-1 was made. If not, they would have had to un-install all of the N/NL items. My guess would be the decision to convert was made prior to production and it was most likely closer to a -5-standard airframe as it went down the line.

 

[Ribellu2043]

Hello,

Thank you for your quick and precise response.
"My guess would be the decision to convert was made prior to production and it was most likely closer to a -5-standard airframe as it went down the line".
This actually seems more logical to me.

Best regards

 

[mjfur]

Record History Card for BuNo 124665

 

[Ribellu2043]

Hello,
Thank you for the document. I'll see if I can understand it easily, otherwise, I'll contact you again for clarification.