Does anyone know if there are any Spitfire IXs still around that have the earlier small carb intake?
Also, why was this changed on later aircraft? Was it to incorporate a more comprehensive filter arrangement to cater for all service environments instead of needing a Volks filter etc.?
Thanks
Spiteful,
There are none currently flying today with the shorter intake, although some of them like MH434 would have when it rolled out of Castle Bromwich in 1943.
The later longer & larger type was introduced on later MK VIII’s, IX’s, XI’s & the XVI’s to house the Vokes tropical filter, of which I think there were at least 3 different variations! (Mark12 and any of the other Spit experts/restorers should be able to confirm this).
If you look at pictures of 434 for example, it was fitted with this type of filter whilst in Dutch service, and was probably done quite a bit earlier on in it’s service life to keep it in line with the various Mods that were introduced as MKIX/XVI production went on.
It think you’ll find that all of the UK’s airworthy Spits have to come up to & include (where applicable) the latest Mod standard, in the case of the MKIX’s, it’s AP1565W Vol 2. Part 1 Leaflet Z.26 from 1950.
Hope this helps.
Cheers
Paul
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