Eighty Degree “V”””

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Pierce-Arrow used an eighty degree “V”” for the V-12 engines. What engineering principle/technology led Pierce-Arrow to decide to use the eighty degree “”V”””

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I opine in general here: while the 60 degree included angle is technically perfect in terms of even firing for the V-twelve, often compromises are made for other reasons. In this case, perhaps making more room in the included angle for the manifolds, at the expense of very minor vibrations. Ease and expense of manufacture could also be factors. A search of SAE technical papers often reveals a design analysis of a new engine of significance authored by the proud “father”” (designer). I will search and see what there might be.”

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Randy: I’ll be interested in what you turn up.

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The January 1933 issue of the SAE journal includes an article which Karl Wise makes the statement: “Further, he gave the reasons for various design details, such as an 80 degree angle between cylinder banks to give the best conditions with regard to vibration and to permit the valve gearing to work from one camshaft as well as an L-head arrangement of valves to give the greatest simplicity and to secure maximum quietness”. Ref: Arrow 99-1, page 16.

Late in 1932, Don Anson wrote a technical paper intended for the advertising department which included the following statement: “The cylinder blocks are mounted at an angle of 80 degrees, which is one of our methods of overcoming many of the synchronous periods of vibration which must be overcome in any good engine”. Ref: Arrow 80-4,page 2.

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Paul: Thank you very much for the information – just what I as looking for.

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