The 1946 edition of the Mk.IX/XVI PN’s says

“[the rear] tanks should only be filled for special operations at the discretion of the appropriate Area Commander and normally their cocks should be wired OFF. If fitted in aircraft with “rear view” fuselage, they must not be used in any circumstances”.

Presumably they were so detrimental to the handling characteristics that they would only ever be used in wartime.

Like on the P51, when they fitted the 85 US gal rear fuselage tank, it caused severe pitch instability. Well, maybe not as bad as on the Mustang but seemingly enough to make handling in pitch unpleasant from the accounts I’ve read.

Interesting what the IX/XVI PN’s say about the cut-back rear fuselage versions. I’ll dig out the MKXIV PN’s to refresh my memory on what they say about those aircraft that where fitted with rear fuselage tanks.

Although not low back models, I believe that RN201 has a rear fuselage tank fitted as does SM832 & ML417. I wonder how often they use them or indeed if they fill them completely when used?

Nice to see more pics of TE311 Fluffy & UNC. 🙂

Cheers

Paul

Now I’ve not seen any of this footage today, I’ve been too busy.

I don’t know why we are all moaning though, what else could be expected. Ok, its a news special feature but at the end of the day its broadcast for the masses not enthusiasts. Most of who proably weren’t aware of the anniversary in the first place and also probably not really bothered and have already forgotten. Its a specialist subject not on a specialist aviation channel. Yes its annoying when they get facts wrong but I would have thought most people watching ain’t bothered about hearing just merlin engines.
If I could I would have gone to Duxford but as it was I had other plans and as for not seeing it on tv, well, I don’t think I’ve missed much.

I may be wrong or you may not agree but thats how I see it.

Neal

Good point Neal.

I know we’ve all moaned about it, but at least the BBC took the trouble to cover it and show it again in their main news slots.

Not a mention of it on the ITV national news at 6.40! :confused:

However, ITV Merdian S & Anglia W did show reports about it. 🙂

Cheers

Paul

Thanks for the reminder Hairyplane.

I understand they’ve been running a piece on the 70th anniversary during the day. 🙂

Cheers

Paul

EDIT: You can view the piece here:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/default.stm

Thanks for the update Fluffy.

Looking very nice indeed! 🙂

Like Daz, I’m looking forward to seeing another low back Spit in the air.

Cheers

Paul

Thanks for the HU Quinny. 🙂

Cheers

Paul

Happy Birthday Skybolt.

Have a good one! 🙂

Cheers

Paul

You must stop teasing us!

Very nice indeed Steve. 🙂

Like the low pass Spitfire one too! 😀

Cheers

Paul