Data Plates Exposed #2: Do 217 N

[stephen f. polyak]

Hi TOCH:

Next in the "Exposed" series is Do 217 N, Werk-Nr. 352375. This plate, possibly a main aircraft identification plate, was brought home as a "war prize" by a American GI.

Note, the original Hersteller entry was carefully removed by machine tool. This was likely done to avoid information (company name and location) disclosure should the plate (i.e., aircraft) fall into Allied hands. The company code "jbo" is placed in the inspector's stamp entry box on the lower left. This code identifies the aircraft builder as Dornier-Werke G.m.b.H.

I welcome learning more about the service history of this airplane.

Also, I'm still seeking information about Ju 87 D-3 (Tp), Werk-Nr. 100019.

Best regards,
Steve

[Stig Jarlevik]

Hi All

Is this really a true and correct WNr?
Reason I ask is that it is NOT included in Griehl's book about the Do 217

Cheers
Stig

[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

[fran]

Hello Stephen,
This is a subassembly part plate. '8-' Stands for airframe part (engine part would be '9-')

Regards
Fran