Hello Gents, This is a progress report on the P-4 "restoration" project that I discussed a while back, here on the forum. The attached photo images show the helmet as it sits today, about half way through the rejuvenation process.
You will note that I elected not to repaint it, feeling that the original scratches, bumps, gouges, and bruises were earned honestly, in some cramped cockpit environment about 40 years ago and therefore constitute an important part of its essential character. It may have been previously repainted at some time in the past, although the paint appears to be original on inspection. However, the lack of a USAF winged-star decal on the forehead makes me suspect this--despite the lack of the usual evidences of repainting.
The helmet is now complete and ready to reassemble, thanks to a little help from my friends (you know who you are, of course) in scaring up the few original P-4 parts that it lacked. The helmet is a size large, with original size large P-4 head harness sling. It has the original H-75/AIC earphone top-hats and receivers elements, as well as the original earphone cushions (all are in excellent condition), and the wiring harness simply needs to be reinstalled, the left side rubber com-connector boot sewn back on. The 02 mask tabs are not firmly riveted back on yet (they are merely joined non-permanently for these shots), nor is the chin strap yet riveted firmly back on (these are all final steps). The mask tab rivets are the same Sailrite "Speedy-Rivets" that I mentioned were obtainable from that firm and which closely match the original items.
One artificial added touch will be the use of one of Maggot's excellent winged star decal reproductions on the forehead exterior of the shell and then the helmet will be ready to mate up with a suitable MS22001 that I already have here, waiting to be used with it. This will be the first attempted actual restoration of a P-helmet that I have set out to accomplish and hopefully it will pass critical inspection, with that disclaimer/waiver in mind. I have previously restored an HGU-2/P that is in my opinion a beautiful specimen, authentic in every detail, and in near immaculate condition (it can be seen at my website under the "FOR SALE" sign, although it isn't actually for sale--see comments below).
The one sad aspect that I have been unable yet to address is the lack of the three thin open cell foam sponge pads on the crown, front, and rear of the P-4's shell. It bothers me greatly that I have been as yet unable to find suitable foam to duplicate this critical feature, but I do not want to use anything less that 95%ile acceptable material. This is the only final "drawback" that I have not been able to successfully overcome; the original foam hardened into friable dust and had to be removed.
At any rate, I thought I'd share this with you all and any comments, criticisms, and/or other relevant information would be welcomed. I have two P-1 helmets that are awaiting similar treatment, but time is so scarce these days that it may be a while before I tackle those last two projects.
Bluelight and I have chatted about restorations on occasion and I think he agrees with me that restoration ideally shouldn't include brand-new factory bright finishes and complete refurbishment to "like-new condition", since the flight wear and tear that these artifacts have acquired through actual use are themselves important to the authenticity and essence of the item (flight helmets don't come directly from the factory with built-in character and an inherent essential aura of honest flight use, of course). Divergent opinions to the contrary are, of course, always welcomed, nevertheless.
Cheers, DocBoinkinstein
