FOCKE-WULF FW190 FUEL ACCESS HATCH

Salvaged from a downed Focke Wulf Fw190 this original flush-mounted fuselage Fuel Access Hatch covered the main Fuel Cap for the Fw190. Constructed of aluminium with three rotating flange arms, it was locked in position or released by a small aluminium key inserted into a flush slotted pin at the hatches centre.

Located high up on the starboard side of the fuselage just below the Focke-Wulf's sliding 'bubble-hood' canopy, the hatch hinged upwards revealing the 'S' shaped vented fuel cap below.

The Focke Wulf's main fuel tank held 639 lts, almost a third more than its smaller cousin, the Bf109 but like most fighters, Allied and Axis alike, none had sufficient fuel capacity for long range missions such as providing continuous bomber support and protective cover.

In fact, during the early years of the war, the primary fighter support for the Luftwaffe bomber assault on Britain, the Messerschmidt Bf109, could only stay with the bombers for less than nine minutes before have to break off and head home. The same was also true for the Allied forces with only partial air-cover available for their bomber groups.

This was to later change for both sides with the introduction of disposable drop tanks with the Focke-Wulf and the Bf109 able to carry two 300lt Aluminium Drop tanks located under each wing or one in a central pod directly below the pilot.

The most successful long-range fighter of the war in Europe, the P51 Mustang carried two cellulose/mache' drop tanks which enabled it to provide air cover for the USAAF deep into enemy territory. 

This is an incredible piece of Luftwaffe aviation history from a battle hardened, high performance Focke-Wulf Fw190 fighter and would make an amazing gift for any aviation enthusiast with its 100yr old Mango Wood stand, highly detailed 1/72 or 1/48 scale hand crafted and airbrushed Fw190 model perched atop it magnetic arm. Together with a highly detailed and informative printed and laminated Fact Sheet it truly is a gift to be cherished. 

This Focke-Wulf Fw190 collectable comes complete with detailed 1/72 or larger 1/48 Scale Model, Mango Wood Stand & Plaque plus Printed Fact Sheet featuring photo of instrument in aircraft cockpit.

* Note that this Focke Wulf FW 190 Instrument is pictured with a 1/48 scale model rather than the standard detailed, but smaller 1/72 scale. Click on the 'Model Upgrade' option at the top of this page for the larger 1/48 scale

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