240v Split phase series circuit
If you have three identical resistors in series across 240 volts, you will have 80 volts across each one.

The fact that the 120/240 volt "split phase" circuit can also provide 120 volts to loads connected between either "hot" wire and neutral is irrrelevant if you are not using the neutral.

If you apply 120 volts to one of your 1.44 Ohm resistors, it will draw 83.3 Amps. 

With 240 volts across three 1.44 Ohm resistors in series (total resistance is 4.32 Ohms), you will get 55.5 Amps.