How did the size, shape, and number of access panels on the P-51D's engine cowling change over its production run (blocks)? I ask this as I have noticed that not every P-51 production block has the same number or size of panels, and would like to know which panels to remove or add depending upon the version I'm building. The Tamiya 1/32 P-51D has;

Top of cowling, left (from the pilot's point of view) side:

Hydraulic reservoir access panel
Oil tank access panel (this is apparently the larger type)
Aftercoolant access panel

Bottom of cowling, right (from the pilot's point of view) side:

Ground heater duct access panel
Unmarked access panel

Bottom of cowling, left (from the pilot's point of view) side:

Fuel strainer access panel

What scheme are you planning on doing ? Knowing the tail numbers would be helpful ....




Terri