WIX Archives

Re: Mosquito Moulds

Posted by dumaresqc on Thu Sep 26, 2002 09:01:10 AM

In reply top Mosquito Moulds posted by Mike Henniger on Wed Sep 25, 2002 12:01:39 PM

Ironic that you posted this today Mike. I was just thinking about Mosquitos as I was walking into work this morning.

Dumb question to some perhaps, heresy to others, but I keep reading about problems keeping Mosquitos flying because of the difficulty maintaining the wood, which is completely understandable. Especially given the fact that there were problems even in wartime, particularly once they moved Mossies into India and the heat and humidity started getting to them. My thought doesn't relate to original Mossies, but rather to the suggestion of an airworthy replica.

Would it be heresy, would it work, if someone tried making a replica Mosquito out of fiberglass and other composite materials? Someone's probably thought of this before, though I don't know if anyone has actually tried it. The end product would be an excellent replica, close in weight to the real thing, but much easier to maintain. And it seems to me that some of the original arguements in favour Mosquito production would come into play here to, i.e. that less skilled labour could be used than for the construction of a metal airplane, and with simpler tools.

Of course, due to its contruction this replica would be significantly different than the original, unlike the replica FW 190s for example. But it would be a tremendous tribute to those that flew the Mossie into combat. It would also be an amazing addition to the airshow circuit. And once in the air, what it was made of would not matter any more, it would still be a Mosquito flying by.

Besides, if Mr. DeHavilland was alive today, would his dream of a fast unarmed bomber able to reach Berlin be born in wood, or in fiberglass and other modern materials? I think I know what his answer would be. I think he'd be very envious of the materials we have access to for the construction of lightweight aircraft.

Just a thought, and I'd love to heard what others have to say.

Charles

P.S. donations gladly accepted if anyone wants me to get started on this!!! I'm sure my wife wouldn't mind at all. And the kids would love it! I'd have it done in time for retirement!

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