An interesting point.

A few weeks ago, we received a Gipsy Major engine from Filton, where it had been in store with RRHT.

At the end of its life, the prototype Chippy – CF-DIO-X was converted to take a modified Gipsy Major, with VP propeller. After trials were completed, the aircraft was scrapped. However, the engine we received a few weeks ago, was indeed a VP propeller equipped Gipsy Major. It came with a Chipmunk firewall, and modified oil tank assembly. The manufacture techniques evident on the firewall are nothing like a production aircraft, which leads me to conclude – possibly incorrectly, that we have the last surviving parts of the prototype! Pity its only a firewall and oil tank – still more has been done with less in the past!

Bruce