Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Is there a guide for quickly telling the difference between the B, C and non-Daimler Benz engine D models visually?

I'm talking about visible identification keys while looking at photos; not about any differences under the cowlings, etc.

Regards,
...geoff

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Could I suggest the following books:

1. Aircraft Monograph 16 Messerschmitt Me (sic) 109 pt.1 By Robert Michulec A.J. Press ISBN 83-7237-093-1 that has the most excellent and detailed plans of all the early varients.

2. Messerschmitt Bf109B-E No.375 by Model Art which again has excellent plans.

The following pictures, from Squadron Signal book I think, give some of the detailed differences but I'm sure some greater experts will provide more:

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

The production B, C, and D a/c were all powered by Jumo engines: the B and D by the carburetor Jumo 210D, and the C by the fuel-injected Jumo 210G.

Chris gave you good info on the sources.

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Hello,
a model kit manufacturer isssued parts for Bf 109A to D with explainaitions about differencies.
See : www.meteorprod.com

Have a good Sunday

Von Alles

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Is there D with DB motors ??

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

No. This was prewar propaganda. The examples shown are prototype and development Es.

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Hi Guys

Geoff is asking a very good question. To list all sources are pointless, since all I can see from very detailed three view drawings are very minute differences. I doubt any of those are visible on a normal photo. I would say it is more or less impossible to see any difference unless the photographer has made a note on the back... OR the interpreter makes an educated guess, that is knows the date of the photo and the unit(s) pictured!

So if you want to convince me you better come up with something better than almost non visible differences in various drawings.

Cheers
Stig

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

The C & D models had wing guns, the B didn't.
Other differences between the C & D compared to the B are, external electrical socket moved to frame 2, oxygen filler point moved aft of cockpit, angle of windscreen was reduced, larger exhaust were fitted.

The difference between a C & D in pics is virtually impossible.

Regards,
Mike

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

The wing guns are certain signs of the C and D. And, wing cannon are a pretty certain sign of the C-3 since I don't believe the D ever carried cannons.

As Revi said, visual distinction between the C and D is virtually impossible.

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Thanks Guys

Next time Ed finds a two bladed 109 I will try your knowledge...:D

Cheers
Stig

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Thanks for the "Dummy's Guide" help so far.

From memory, I seem to recall that the C model was capable of carrying a MG17 firing through the spinner, which the B and D models didn't feature. If my memory is not mistaken, were there any noticable differences between the "machine-gun spinner" of the C, and the regular "engine ventilation(?) spinners" of the B & D?

...geoff

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

The handbook on the 109B shows an armament that includes an MG 17 firing through the spinner. But, that never happened successfully with any 109 series until the 109F.

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

What is the Jumo(?) powered version with E type exhausts? Don't see that in any of the drawings above.

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

Good question, Richard. I always thought it was just a standard 109D, with experimental exhaust stubs fitted for testing on the amount of thrust augmentation they gave. But, I have been wrong before.

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

OK guys, here's your chance to astound and impress. This is one of the latest eBay photos compiled by edwest:

http://cgi.ebay.de/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?...m=180235731697

From this photograph, can someone tell me which version of Bf109 it is....B, C, or D, and why - i.e. explain the identifying details. It's not a guessing contest. I don't know the answer. I'm just hoping one of our Messerschmitt experten can educate me.

Regards,
...geoff

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

My guess is it's a Bf 109C-3, the bulged fairing under the wing would be for a MG FF. I realize there's no barrel sticking out of the wing, cannon might not be installed. I don't believe the MG 17 equiped wing had a bulged lower fairing.

Regards,
Mike

Re: Visible differences between Bf109B, C and non-DB D's
 

This site should be helpful

http://www.zi.ku.dk/personal/drnash/...ain/bf109.html