P-51D Mustang in Detail
Engine Installation

n by Bryan Ribbans

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This aircraft is based at Reilly's and again is a flyer. This picture  offers a  good view of the Hamilton paddle-blade propeller of the P-51D. The propeller cuffs, widely used on Merlin-powered Mustangs during their operational use, are not present here.

With the cowling panels removed one can see that, although all the bits are there, the colors of the engine, acsessories and fitings are spurious to original wartime finish. However, these close-up views allow all the engineering to be shown clearly.

The removed bottom cowling panel reveals the carburettor air duct.
Also note the multiple holes in the framework for the fasteners.

Port side of the engine. Once again it is all there, albeit in 'funny' colors. I am a bit surprised that it was finished in this way but at least one can make out individual items such as the oil tank (in yellow).

This and the following picture are the best I have ever taken of the engine bay of a P-51D - in this case of  Candyman - Moose at Duxford, England. Here the colors  replicate very closely the actual wartime operational finish. Just look at the mass of pipes, cables and wires! Note the paint finish on the cowling bearers. That afternoon while wandering around the place I just got lucky! In the right place at the right time. A very short while later the cowling panels were put back on and that was that....

Same engine from the port side. How I wish that was me in the cockpit! 

The six exhaust stacks of the shouded variety on the port side of the Swedish P-51D. The completely different shade of the metal panel surrounding the stacks is obvious. It is believed to be made of stainless steel for heat protection.

Top side of the cowling and a prominent panel division line down the middle.

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