Data Plates Exposed #2: Do 217 N

[stephen f. polyak]

Hi Stig,

It is not clear if this is a main aircraft (airframe) identification (ID) plate or not; I have never seen another Dornier plate like this one. If it is a main plate, 352375 is certainly a Do 217 Werk-Nr. If not, 352375 is most likely a Do 217 subassembly or structural part werk-number.

While Griehl does not list this number, he also says that his Werk-Nr. list is neither complete or totally correct. And he does list other numbers in the 3xxxxx range.

Considering the plate itself, there are indications both ways. It's size is relatively large, which points to a main ID plate. However, the plate lacks a build/acceptance date entry and Air Ministry inspector's stamp typically found on main plates. To add further confusion, there are also cases where the airplane Werk-Nr. was entered on plates other than the main plate; these plates were commonly fitted to the fuselage (inside and/or out).

I'm hoping TOCH readers will offer further information.

Steve