P-47 drop tanks

[Donivanp]

Question; paper drop tanks, were they used in the southwest pacific ie New Guinea, Dobodura, Nazdab etc…. The ranges were long and when the P-38's were pulled from the 475th they got the 47D's.

 

[Airframes]

As far as I know, the "paper" drop tanks were only used in the ETO, and were manufactured in England.

 

[Donivanp]

As far as I know, the "paper" drop tanks were only used in the ETO, and were manufactured in England.

Thanks. I've found them using Lockheed 75 gallon tanks and 65 gallon tanks.

 

[Davecww1]

Question; paper drop tanks, were they used in the southwest pacific ie New Guinea, Dobodura, Nazdab etc…. The ranges were long and when the P-38's were pulled from the 475th they got the 47D's.

I know the 348th Fighter Group in New Guinea used the metal tanks locally manufactured in Australia known as Brisbane tanks. Google that and you will find photos showing them, they are not similar to the P-38 Lightning tanks used by the 475th.
Dave

 

[SaparotRob]

The depth and availability of knowledge here is astounding.

 

[ThomasP]

re

Thanks. I've found them using Lockheed 75 gallon tanks and 65 gallon tanks.

I have never heard of a 65 gallon DT used on the P-47. Do you mean 165 gallon?

These are the Lockheed type 165 USgal DTs (sometimes referred to as 150 USgal), originally designed for the P-38. Large numbers were used by both aircraft in the PTO. I think there was a production line set-up in Australia as well, but cannot say for sure.

 

[Donivanp]

My fingers went connected to my brain or some such thing.