Quadibloc wrote:
Making a rocket engine as big as one of the five in a Saturn V that
will work safely will require a fair amount of research and testing,
so although you're probably right, the investment in all the static
tests to ensure the engine would not blow up on the launch pad is of
enough value that it is understandable that it would be desired to
make use of it if possible.


The Russians already have a engine in service that is more powerful than
a F-1, the RD-171:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RD-171
This generates 1,697,000 lb thrust at sea level, versus the F-1's
1,522,000 thrust at sea level.
It is used on the Zenit launch vehicle's first stage.
Half of the four chambered RD-171 forms the two chambered RD-180 engine
for Atlas V.

Pat