Q&A · 2:09:15-2:09:43

Why did USS Ranger have six folding funnels?

Ranger's folding funnels were a structural compromise intended to keep exhaust clear of flight operations without rebuilding the island arrangement.

Aircraft Carriers Carrier Islands Funnel Trunking US Navy USS Ranger (CV-4)

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Question

How could anyone justify USS Ranger's six folding funnels?

Short answer

They avoided heavy island trunking while allowing the funnels to be moved clear of aircraft operations.

Notes

Routing exhaust through the island would have required a stronger superstructure built to carry the trunking. Fixed side funnels would obstruct aircraft operations. Folding funnels were therefore the chosen answer to constraints created elsewhere in the carrier's light design.