US neutral Gray

[edNorth]

Hi all;

Qoute: "Neutral Gray was intended to be neutral in hue, the term does not refer to the USA's early neutral posture in the war. It was quite a dark gray. Most of the later-war photos seem to show the fighters, at least, in a significantly lighter grey. For the 8th AF, this was often the RAF's Medium Sea Grey, although this is far from explaining all cases. MSG has a definite bluish tint."

I can add that some P-38F intended/sent to ETO were REPAINTED to ETO standards! I have one original cowling from P-38F of the 50FS here in Iceland : This showing Olive Drap was overpainted with Dark Green (close to RAF Dark Green) and also Neutral (Dark) Grey was overpainted with Light Grey on same cowling!

ed

[Franek Grabowski]

Ed, any photos of the piece?

[edNorth]

Hello;
Here is one taken today!
I was expecting exactly that somone might ask!

http://img180.imageshack.us/my.php?i...mg103824yz.jpg

It is painted as follows: (but as photo is rather dark and RAF like Dark Green does not show at all but it is there!) - There was about 6 inces Yellow band behind the spinner denoting the 50 FS (alias within group); darkest colour is Olive Drap (Shade 41) - Underneah is Zink Cromate Primer (Light Yellowish where camouflage had peeled), on bottom side can be seen Darker Grey and Lighter Gray. Panel is from Right Engine inner side with clear panel acting as mirror for visual on if nosewheel was down and for kepping engines in sinc... (so am told).

It is original in every respect and has both the USAAF serial A/C 42-12586 (or ´-12576 as I had parts from both crash sites I do not remember exactly here and now) and also Lockeed c/n stamped into it. I can make better close ups later if required but that requires it un-screwed from the wall!

cheers
ed

[Franek Grabowski]

Nice bit! I see I have to take some photos of my Airacobra bits. You will be surprised with colours!