Q&A · 49:29-51:07

Nelson and Rodney engine-refit limits

A Nelson and Rodney refit question explains why boiler and engine upgrades could add speed, but shaft layout and practical engine ratings still mattered.

Question

How much speed would Nelson and Rodney gain from a 1936 engine update refit?

Short answer

Without another shaft, an engine and boiler refit might raise practical standard speed to about 26 knots, but not remove the ships' underlying machinery limits.

Notes

A 1936 machinery refit would be useful but bounded by ship architecture. Without another shaft, roughly 26 knots is a practical standard speed, and normal operating power remains distinct from the maximum output an engine might briefly survive.