Trying to identify this substantial aluminium aircraft part, believed to date from the Second World War and found near a B24 airfield.
It measures approximately 70 cm (27½ in) long and 14 cm (5½ in) wide and appears originally to have been an elongated oval-shaped housing or fairing. The centre looks to have been badly crushed and there is significant corrosion. It has numerous original rivet holes, substantial riveted brackets and several purpose-made apertures, but so far we have found no visible part numbers or markings.
We have wondered whether it could possibly be associated with a B-24 Liberator, but at this stage that is only a theory and we certainly don't want to influence identification by making assumptions.
Does anyone recognise the shape, construction or fixing arrangement? We'd particularly love to hear from anyone familiar with wartime aircraft restoration, engineering drawings or USAAF aircraft components.
Any ideas very gratefully received.
Thank you
It measures approximately 70 cm (27½ in) long and 14 cm (5½ in) wide and appears originally to have been an elongated oval-shaped housing or fairing. The centre looks to have been badly crushed and there is significant corrosion. It has numerous original rivet holes, substantial riveted brackets and several purpose-made apertures, but so far we have found no visible part numbers or markings.
We have wondered whether it could possibly be associated with a B-24 Liberator, but at this stage that is only a theory and we certainly don't want to influence identification by making assumptions.
Does anyone recognise the shape, construction or fixing arrangement? We'd particularly love to hear from anyone familiar with wartime aircraft restoration, engineering drawings or USAAF aircraft components.
Any ideas very gratefully received.
Thank you
