Quote:
Originally Posted by Stig Jarlevik
Don't know which photo you refer to, but the four digit numbers on the Lightning noses usually refer to the USAAF s/n.
There were two Lockheed c/n 7167,
first one 222-7167 which was 42-12733 (not 41-12733)
second one 422-7167which was 44-26163 (a P-38L-5). If it was converted to a F-5F/G is unknown to me.
I also thought all F-5A (based on the P-38G) were built as such from the beginning, ie no conversions later on meaning 42-12733 stayed as a P-38G.
But I might be wrong there.
If the nose carries 7167 as you suggest, I would say it rather indicates a J-model 42-67167.
What ever the case a good picture would probably settle it one way or the other 
Cheers
Stig |
Lockheed construction numbers recorded with small digits on the nose can be seen throughout the entire production run, I've seen them on Js as well - in such cases the last digits of the USAAF serial number are sometimes superimposed with large digits over the small c/n - see example here:
https://www.americanairmuseum.com/aircraft/21474
The photo in question might be found in 'Ali Straniere in Italia vol.6' p.7 and Avions No.210 p.24 (perhaps also in other sources, but I have these two publications at hand). It clearly isn't a J or L as it does not have the chin distinctive for these versions, nor a recon variant.
Now it would be useful to check the IARC for 42-12733 - does any US-based member would be so kind to call the AFHRA and request the file? Unfortunately, it usually takes them around half a year to handle requests sent by email.