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Re: Engineering question (DB engines)

Posted by Mike Henniger on Fri Apr 25, 2003 02:54:29 PM

In reply top Engineering question (DB engines) posted by Rob Mears on Fri Apr 25, 2003 01:47:44 PM

Excellent question Rob!

I don't have any experience in the field to add to the discussion. However I can raise another point like the one Rob has raised here. Eventually the large number of Merlin powered survivors will wearout (beyond repair) their original equipment power plants. As this happens the number of spare Merlins goes down, the value of a Merlin goes up, and so does the potential revenues for an engine manufacturer to produce working replicas. It is not really a matter of "if" but rather "when" in my opinion.

So to add to Rob's question, is there anyone out there that has started planning for approval and production of replica engines like the DB and Merlin?

I would think that modern technology, due mostly to the automotive industry, would make the possibility of producing replica engines a viable reality. What are the technical hurdles that would prevent someone from taking the original specs and drawings, and making new molds? I would think machine would not be a problem with modern computer integrated tools.

Ahhhh.... the possiblities. I would like to see things as original as possible, but when originals are not possible, think of the potential restorations with new engines. Like Rob indicated it could be a whole new generation in the warbird movement!

Mike

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