WHT Replicates Aluminium Rudder Pedal For Legendary Supermarine Spitfire
The legendary Supermarine Spitfire is an iconic aircraft that supported the effort during World War II. It continues to be enjoyed by enthusiasts today and airworthy examples are being commissioned and built every year. It is rumored that there are only 60 flight-capable examples worldwide with many more built for grounded exhibition purposes only.
W.H.Tildesley Ltd is proud to support the restoration efforts of specialist companies whose goal is to get more Spitfires flight-ready. The market is flooded with inferior replicated cast components that must never leave the ground, however, WHT has AS9100 approval and is the only company producing flight-approved forged components for the Supermarine Spitfire.
One of the first components produced by WHT is the Aluminium Supermarine Spitfire rudder pedal, part number 30033/447/D. A very unique shape that is drop forged from Aluminium for which we received the ‘Best Forging’ award from the Confederation of British Metalforming in 2005.
The rudder pedal sample provided to us by our client was obtained from an excavation in 1974 at Wye Court Farm, Wye. The Spitfire designation X4237 was shot down by a ME109 on September 27th, 1940. The pilot Sgt. D. Cox was wounded and bailed out of the aircraft that was written off as a result.
The rudder pedal was reversed engineered by our skilled team and new forging dies were produced. Being a forged example, the part is certified for flight. The development and supply of this component has led to other replication opportunities and substantially expanded our parts portfolio for the Supermarine Spitfire. We have gained a strong reputation in the community and with our valued clients.
We hope to produce other forged components for heritage aircraft and vehicles so please do get in touch if our services are of interest.
Willenhall, where W.H.Tildesley Ltd is located, has some connection to the Spitfire. Pictured below, the Willenhall Spitfire was purchased for £6,760 raised by the town and is believed to be a Spitfire Mk.VB, serial AB251.