The RAF also, had the recoil springs mounted in the cannon fairing. If you look up A.L. Bently

1 attached image. Click to enlarge.

I'm still working on the Aca P-51 1A. The instructions for decal placement are inaccurate. I learned of this while decaling and looking at the photos after the fact. I've sourced out another set of decals.The plastic cannons have been replaced with brass. Brake lines added to the landing gear. The prop is still off and the yellow ID wing bands had to be corrected. The camera window/panel on the original was blown out or molded out ward to accommodate the off set camera.

The photos are not too clear on this one. There are drawings of this canopy arrangement. Even when Accurate boxed this kit or in looking at some of the posts of built up kits decal placement is sketchy.

2 attached images. Click to enlarge.

Great progress and excellent looks so far, my friend @stephen-w-towle!

My cellphone can not focus at all. Up loading photos is another story.

This 95% looks really good already, Stephen @stephen-w-towle
Looking forward to this remaining 5%

I think you are doing simply great in modeling, my friend @stephen-w-towle!
If I understand, your Father has flown North? My condolences.

Wise words, my friend @stephen-w-towle.