MK 2 carrier jack.

[Ben]

Hi Ron

There are two types of 4 ton jacks that fit that (British) pattern. The first and it seems the more common is the type you have got. On a carrier I believe the handle is in three pieces and this comes apart and is stored in the boxes on the rear deck, there's a strap for stopping them coming out. There's also a cap that fits on the top section, I've attached a picture of what I believe to be a complete carrier set up.

There is a second type that has the same base dimensions, operating procedure etc but is an entirely different shape. This type has a folding top rather than one that slides off. My one shown below is 1/43 dated and has a slightly different handle fixing, I'm not sure about this specific handle set up.

I have seen period pictures of both types stowed on carriers, the second one seems to be the standard type seen stowed on the wing in period photos of Dingos (the manual shows another type!!) the Chilwell carrier workshop manual shows the second type used whilst explaining how to jack and remove the suspension on a carrier.

Yours looks like a good find, you need to look out for a handle and top to complete it for the carrier. Mine is not dated but I've seen them dated into the 60's

Hope that helps

Ben