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The case for MV459?? Or Not ??

Posted by Paul McMillan on Tue Feb 11, 2003 06:44:19 AM

In reply top Two more pictures of the Spitfire dig posted by Jagan on Tue Feb 11, 2003 03:59:24 AM

Crashed 23 May 1947 MV459 Spifire LF.VIIIc of RIAF at Mullana Village, 10 miles from Ambala

Reason: The engine (Merlin 66) starboard camshaft sheared and the engine failed, pilot made a wheels up landing on a dry river bed. Cat: Flying Accident/Cat E (P/O A D'Cruz OK) and SOC 26.6.47

Now, the investigation showed that the starboard camshaft failed.. This could only be established if the engine was removed and stripped down.. There does NOT appear to be an engine attached to the aircraft see:

http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/holnus/02082215.htm

So they may have taken the engine off, but left the rest of the frame in situ as this would be easier for investigation purposes and just leave the hulk....

Also, it says dry river bed, this would be prior to monsoon season which is around June..

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