Spitfire Va underwing oil cooler

[cameraman1944]

Hi,
I am researching Douglas Bader's Spitfire V a with a view to building the Airfix 1/48 kit.
The instructions in the kit are saying fit the "D" shaped under wing oil cooler.

The references I have for a Mark V spitfire shows a round cooler. Which is also included in the kit.

I think I have read somewhere in the past that early mark V's with a "a" wing used a "D" shaped cooler. As there were few "a" wing versions made would this be right for Bader's Aircraft?

Cheers,
Don

[MikeC]

Given that the difference between the Mk I/II and V was the variant of Merlin installed, logic would dictate that the Va would have the round oil cooler. That's not to say, of course, that was a fact, but imo is likely.

Perhaps the Spitfire SIG, or the Spitfire forums www.spitfireforums.com/ may be able to help.

[edgar]

From 13-4-41, all Mk.Vs had the "Mk.III" oil cooler; W3185 was delivered in May, 1941, so would have had the later, larger type.
Edgar