B-18A bow turret interior
The front gun turret of the B-18 Bolo, located in the nose of the aircraft, was designed for both functionality and ease of use. Constructed with an aluminum alloy frame, the turret was both lightweight and durable, essential for maintaining the aircraft’s overall performance.
Construction and Mounting:
Turret Structure:
- The turret was built from an aluminum alloy frame, providing a strong yet lightweight structure.
- The gun itself was mounted on an aluminum alloy casting, which was securely attached to the ring of the turret. This setup allowed for smooth and stable operation.
Movement Mechanism:
- The turret rotated on ball bearings set in a circular track, enabling it to turn easily and smoothly. This smooth motion was crucial for the gunner to track and engage targets accurately.
- Flexible trailing windshields were attached both above and below the gun, serving as windbreaks to protect the gunner and reduce wind resistance when the gun was in use.
Gun Operation:
Positioning the Gun:
- To move the gun into its firing position, the gunner would first disengage a latch located next to the spade grips (the handles used to control the gun).
- The right turret handle was then moved until the safety catch pin on the handle could be removed. This action unlocked the gun, allowing it to be maneuvered.
Range of Motion:
- The gun had a significant range of motion, capable of rotating 195 degrees horizontally, allowing the gunner to cover a wide arc in front of the aircraft.
- Vertically, the gun could move 7.5 degrees without requiring the turret itself to move, providing some flexibility in targeting elevation.
Stowing the Gun:
- Stowage Procedure:
- After use, the gun was stowed with its barrel pointing vertically outside of the turret.
- The safety catch pin was re-engaged to lock the turret in place on the ring, preventing any unintended movement.
- Finally, the latch was pulled up to engage with the flange on the gun, securing it in its stowed position.
Gunner’s Comfort and Safety:
- Seating and Restraints:
- For the gunner’s comfort during long missions, a backrest with a retractable seat was provided. This seat was equipped with a Type A-3 seat belt, which was attached to rings on the floor, ensuring the gunner could remain securely seated, especially during turbulent flight conditions.