thanks guys i just read all those pages from that site!!! phew! didnt find any mention of one plane using wep whilst the other didnt either. only like you said a small mention of , and i quote:
'speed runs(maximum 3 minute ratings used)
F.W190 ... ... 2700 r.p.m. @ 1.42 ata
spitfire VB... 3000 r.p.m. @ +12lbs/sq.inch
(the spitfire VB has since been cleared for 3000 r.p.m. @ +16lbs/sq. inch)
spitfire IX ... 3000 r.p.m. @ +15lbs/sq.inch'
the mention of spitVB being later rated to 16lbs/sq.inch suggests to me that they would mention whether one of the aircraft were not using their full potential if it had happened(as in the spit XIV being tested without using its wep?).
so for now I at least I can take the information in the book i have as accurate.In which case my original question still stands.

phew

p.s. i wont devote anymor of my time to the spit XIV cause as im a LWer at heart but even i cant see why the spit XIV should be perked for performance reasons alone, as it was produced in large numbers and saw enormous amounts of action.So the only reason it should be perked would be too much use in the MA.So even if it is perked it should only be similar in price to the F4UC imho.
[ 08-24-2001: Message edited by: hazed- ]