Here are two pictures of the panel. The first is as received, with a coat of etch primer. We de-greased it and then began applying thin coats of matt black. About seven coats got it how I wanted it.

We may yet knock it back with wet-and-dry before a final top coat, but I am also aware of the fact that a pristine panel never existed originally, and too much attention to detail will actually give a less authentic feel to it.

I could use some advice now. I don’t have a clue about what screws/bolts I need to install everything on the panel. Looking at the two that came with the oil pressure gauge they appear to be what is known as cheese head screws. I would like to find the correct fittings. If you can tell me what different sizes I need I would be greatful.

OldSpitty, thank you, I will take you up on that offer shortly! Photographs of the build would be veyr helpful for sure…I’m a visual learner:D

Dom

Thank you for the encouragement MK1. I am very confident we can do this too. Your 70% MK1 looks sensational!

Thank you Tony, when I’m next heading to the South West I’ll definitely take you up on that, your cockpit is fantastic!

Instrument ‘dashboard’

Hi All,

We are working on the instrument panel but don’t have any good quality drawings specific to the MK1. Can anyone help out please? Also, what are the differences between a MK1 and MKII panel?

Thanks,

Dom

If this has worked, there is hopefully a picture here of the stage we are at now. All made from digital blueprints and working with a jig I’ve built that I call the WL jig.

Cornovii, thanks for the offer, I’m glad it has been identified and has found a home.

Now, who has a full set of Mk1 wheels I can have…:D

Thank you!

Dear All,

Thank you so much for your advice and offers of help. (Mike PM sent! I’d really like to know more about the exact tractor parts I’d need)

To let you know a little bit more about this project: I am running this as a project at school with 11-18 year old’s helping. It will mostly be built from wood with some important parts manufactured from aluminium. These will mostly be small interior pieces to make the cockpit feel authentic. The fuselage will be skinned in flexi-ply with the tail section from frame 12 back made from polystyrene cut around 4mm ply frames at the correct positions. I’m toying with the idea of making a proper aluminium door though. I hope to get real Mk1 wheels or one I can copy from – one sold on eBay a month or two ago and I’m kicking myself for not bidding on it.

The budget is currently under £1000. Laugh, I know, but I used to work in the film industry as a modelmaker and effects guy, and I know how ot make things look exactly like the real thing at a fraction of the cost. We’ve successfully been awarded a grant from the Leonard Stillwell Bequest through The Spitfire Society and the school have also given us some funds. My instinct is that when everyone sees that I’m actually not mad and that this really will happen, more money will come in.

As pointed out, the canopy and glazing will be the biggest cost I think, so any advice very greatfully received. It needs to be the correct flat-sided early type as this is going to be an authentic Mk1 BoB aircraft.

To answer the obvious question: Why another Spitfire? Well two reasons; 1) It is the most iconic aircraft ever built and most recognised by most people.
2) It will be painted in the colours of R6631 of 609 Sqn flown by FO PA Baillon on November 28th 1940 when he became the tragic 56th and final victim of leading Luftwaffe ace Helmut Wick. Baillon was an old boy of the school I teach at, so a very apt if sad link.

I hope this answers some questions about this build.

Thanks so much