Spitfire Cowling Question.

Spitfire headrest efficacy

I suspect in reality the headrest on a Spitfire (one size and position fits all) was of little use and value.

I suspect also it might even be a hindrance to the constant turning and searching under flying conditions let alone combat conditions.

Even in a survivable crash landing situation I personally cannot see the headrest offering any significant protection.

Any views from Spitfire pilots?

Mark

Cool man.

If the opening allows air to the compressor is this for the pneumatics systems? I would have thought this would have been an accessory off the engine (ie engine driven).

OFMC Fan

The compressor is for the pneumatic system, flaps, brakes etc, and is engine driven. It is a single piston type operating in a finned cylinder barrel. The vent in the cowling is to allow cooling air to keep the temperature within limits and prevent seizure.

Mark

Thank you for your amswers.If the opening allows air to the compressor is this for the pneumatics systems? I would have thought this would have been an accessory off the engine (ie engine driven).

The head armour triangle.When was this added to the Spitfire in addition to the pilot armour plating? Also ,was this also a normal addition to a PR XI ( has PL965 arrmour plating?)

OFMC Fan

[HTML]The headrests were standard fit on the early marks but phased out later (economy?).[/HTML]

Rear visibility?

Nope.

Doesn’t make any difference to the rear visibility as is within the periphery of frame 11.

I suspect the fitting and retro-fitting of the head armour triangle has an implication here.

Mark

[HTML]The headrests were standard fit on the early marks but phased out later (ecconomy?).[/HTML]

Rear visibility?

The headrests were standard fit on the early marks but phased out later (ecconomy?).

Air compressor cooling