World War Photos

Erco tear drop gun turret of the Privateer, 1945

The PB4Y-2 was equipped with Erco 250 TH (Teardrop-Hydraulic) waist turrets located on both sides of the aircraft between stations 6.2 and 7.3. These turrets were designed to provide additional defensive coverage and enhance the overall combat capabilities of the aircraft.

Key Features of the Erco 250 TH Waist Turrets:

1. Location and Design:

   • Positioned on both sides of the PB4Y-2 between stations 6.2 and 7.3.
   • Constructed in a teardrop shape, with the upper portion made of Plexiglas to give the gunner a clear view.

2. Operation and Control:

   • Instruments: Consisted of electrical switches, triggers, and a control handle, all easily accessible to the gunner.
   • Hydraulic Power: An electric motor powered a hydraulic pump, providing the necessary hydraulic power to operate the turret. The direction of movement was controlled via the Clarke control valve.
   • Manual Operation: Emergency hand operation was available for both azimuth and vertical movement in case of power failure.
   • Foot Trigger: A foot trigger mechanism was provided for situations where both hands were needed to operate the turret.

3. Armament and Ammunition:

   • Guns: Each turret was armed with two 0.50-cal Browning M-2 machine guns.
   • Ammunition: Each gun was supplied with 500 rounds of ammunition. This consisted of four boxes, each containing 400 rounds, and flexible feed chutes holding an additional 100 rounds, assisted by electric boosters.

4. Movement Range:

   • Azimuth: The guns could be swung 79 degrees aft and 56 degrees forward.
   • Elevation: The guns could be elevated 60 degrees up and depressed 95 degrees down.
   • Fire Interruption: Fire interrupters were installed to prevent the guns from firing when pointed at the aircraft’s horizontal stabilizer and wings.

5. Gun Turret Protection:

   • Armor Plate and Bulletproof Glass: Installed in front of the gunner, both the armor plate and bulletproof glass swung with the gun, ensuring continuous protection between the gunner and the target. The bulletproof glass was easily removable and replaceable.

6. Turret Access and Escape:

   • Access Door: The gunner could escape by swinging the guns to their full down position and removing the access door by pulling the hinge and bracket pins and pushing the entrance hatch upward and outward.
   • Parachute: Located near the gunner, a parachute could be quickly attached to the harness for rapid evacuation.

7. Securing the Turret:

   • When not in operation, the turret was secured with the guns at 0 degrees elevation and swung to the extreme rear azimuth position.

These waist turrets significantly contributed to the PB4Y-2’s defensive capabilities, providing extensive coverage and flexibility during combat operations, thereby enhancing the survivability of the aircraft and its crew.