Radiator cut-off valves on Bf 109F-K

[Kurfürst]

Hi,

In Prien/Rodeike's excellent Bf 109F-K monography (English edition by Schiffer), it is stated on page 13-14 that the radiator cut off valves were fitted retrofit in 1941, at least in the case of JG 51 and 52 machines; these kits were highly prized and crews rushed for downed planes to save these valves for use in combat worthy aircraft. Then it is noted that they were not fitted to the G-series aircraft.

There seems to be a bit of a contradiction here, as looking through the Bf 109G service and flying manuals, the cut off valves are depicted on the 109G-2, being under the instument panel on both sides, and the instructions also prescribe their use in case of coolant leak. This would point to that the cut off valves were a kind of standard fit on the 109G.

Similiarly, the 'Griff für Kühlerabchaltung' is shown in the 109K Handbuch from October 1944.

So, is this an error in the book, or in the manuals?