Questions about the Fw190 Instrument Panel codes & late war changes

[harrison987]

Hey guys...

I noticed that the electrical codes written on the Fw190 main instrument panel were different later in the war.

Standard Fw190 w/ 1.8 ata manifold gauge and mechanical Tachometer.

L4 - Compass
L2 - Horizon...

D9/D13 in with the 2.5 ata manifold gauge and mechanical Tachometer.

L3 - Compass
L8 - Horizon

D9/D13 with the hole for the LARGER autopilot compass (but adapter to take the smaller), 1.8 ata manifold gauge, and electrical tachometer:

L4 - Compass
L2 - Horizon

This panel below (vet acquired) is 100% D or later, with the earlier codes.



Does anyone know the reason for this change? And does it have something to do with the autopilot?

The only other panels I have seen with the adapter plate are the D13 and Ta152 in the USA...so my theory is that this panel above (based on codes and instruments) is 100% LATE D11/13 (possibly Ta152):

- Lesser 1.8ata manifold (not the standard 2.5ata) for the Jumo 213E (this gauge is also installed on the Ta152 in the USA).
- Standard adapter plate for the autopilot compass
- Electrical tachometer

I believe the D13/R11 was the first time they made the hole in the panel for the larger compass as "standard" ...can anyone concur?

Does anyone have any evidence or clues to the code changes, and if any of my theory is correct?

Thanks in advance.

Mike