Couldn't have put it better myself!
A complete headache at times and although you know what it came out of the factory looking like, in most instances the rebuilds and current stock, can look completely different. So many variations of the same theme. I am something of a purist, but then I don't own the aeroplane, therefore the customer is always right!
Martin
Talking of 'headaches' here is a good example. This is Harvard Mk.4 RCAF20286 which later became N13631 (Race Number 88 'Super Slug'), then G-BKCK and now D-FAME.
In the first photo we see her as a stock ex-RCAF machine. Nothing out of the ordinary. But note the AT-6D/SNJ-5 behind as that has a T-6G front canopy. Probably to aid visibility when turning pylons.
In the second photo, she has lost her radio mast and ADF loop, to make the airframe more efficient, but still retaining the original canopy. Also note that she has lost her roll over bar:
And in the third, the fixed 6 piece rear section, has been replaced by the T-6F/SNJ-6 clear blown piece. What is interesting is that she still retains her stock front windscreen:
So there you go, and that is just one aeroplane!
Martin