Restoration of Hull 731- Carrier, MG (Aust) Mortar Carrying

[Bob Moseley (RIP)]

Hi Darrin - interesting and very topical subject with me at the moment. Over the years I have been building these panels with the learning process on a continuous basis. My current version, the brown one, is what I build and that is based on the two images out of a Carrier manual. One of your panels is similar to the 1943 one other than the colour of the fascia plate and striping.

Now why I say this is topical is that a few days ago "Along Came Jones" with a panel variation I hadn't seen, see other image. I was initially hesitant that this was an original configuration but Colin assured me this panel came from an original, uncut and unmodified Carrier. When I broached the subject of the speedometer showing the gear/speed quadrants, my attention was drawn to a small plate on the top left of the cluster holding plate. This plate correlates the speed/gear ratio of the Carrier. I had never seen one of these plates so that was an education. I have yet to see one in the flesh but that is only a matter of time. I see on your holding plate a spot for this small plate.

I cannot now be definite on which is the correct configuration of the cluster. I will stick to the two Manual images unless someone requires something different. The variations obviously depended on the manufacturer and their interpretation of what was required.

I thank Colin for furthering my education and research in this area. Back to the drawing board.

Bob