Spitfire engine start button. Quick question

Thanks everyone!
I learn something new every day, occasionally it is even useful!

I agree with what you say Tony, but the flat type was probably cheaper to manufacture, although if I remember correctly they may be brass, and I am assuming this one to be pressed steel.

Pete

It is actually similar to the Spitfire though the Spit has a 4 hole plate to clamp to the panel/switch on the 5C/898 pushbutton.
As stated the item the seller is selling clamps to the guard part (to avoid accidental depression of the switch). It is better than the flat lid type often sold as Spit starter!

“they were also used as covers for the engine starter and booster coil push-buttons in the Mosquito”

…. and DH Hornet too.

I have not seen this type of switch cover before:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/RAF-Spitfire-Aircraft-Merlin-Engine-Start-Button-Cover_W0QQitemZ130247027519QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item130247027519&_trkparms=72%3A1121%7C39%3A1%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

My question is, does it pivot on a plate with 4 holes to match up to the standard bakelite switch, or does it go with an earlier type of switch altogether?
I am assuming it is an early rather than a later design.

Chers

Pete

This type of cover does fit the standard bakelite push-button switch but it clamps around the front of the switch rather than mount via the four holes like the spring-loaded flap type. This type has no spring so will stay open and not snap shut like the ‘four hole’ type.

As well as extinguisher button covers as mentioned by Air Ministry, they were also used as covers for the engine starter and booster coil push-buttons in the Mosquito so, I presume, others too.

I think I can make out part of the Stores Ref. It looks like N/, in which case it is likely to be 27N/17, a fire extinguisher button cover.

Yet another spurious Spitfire item on eBay!