Bellanca C-27C In 1934, 13 C-27s -- four Y1C-27s and nine C-27As -- were fitted with a Wright Cyclone radial engine and re-designated as C-27Cs. The new engine was rated at 750 hp and was the most powerful engine installed on a C-27 series airframe. In addition to the new engine, the Townend ring cowl used on the early models was replaced by an improved NACA cowling. The NACA cowling was more streamlined and provided better cooling airflow than previous types of cowling and was the basis for all aircraft with radial engines from the mid-1930s through the World War II era and into the 1950s. Although the new engine and cowling did not increase the speed of the C-27C, the additional power greatly increased the maximum gross weight. The Cyclone engine C-27C was capable of lifting about 2,000 pounds more than the earlier versions with less powerful Hornet B radials. The C-27Cs remained in service into the late 1930s when newer, larger and more capable cargo transports became available. Type Number built/ converted Remarks Y1C-27 4 Model SP-200 Airbus C-27A 10 Improved Y1C-27 C-27B 1 (cv) C-27A with new engine C-27C 13 (cv) Modified C-27A TECHNICAL NOTES: Engine: Wright R-1820-25 Cyclone radial of 750 hp Maximum speed: 143 mph Cruising speed: 122 mph Range: 500 miles Service ceiling: 15,000 ft. Span: 65 ft. 0 in. Length: 42 ft. 9 in. Height: 11 ft. 6 in. Weight: 11,400 lbs. maximum gross weight Crew: Two (pilot and co-pilot) Passenger capacity: 13 Serial numbers: Y1C-27, 32-399 to 32-402; C-27A, 33-18 to 33-27 Click here to return to the Cargo Aircraft index.