Gyro Flux Gate Compass System Caging Switch AN5756-1, PN CQ-2

The Caging Switch is a component of the Gyro Flux Gate Compass System, which was installed in many long range bomber and transport aircraft of the US Army Air Force and US Navy, such as B-17 Flying Fortress, B-24 Liberator, B-29 Superfortress, PBY Catalina, PB4Y Privateer, and C-54 Skymaster.  Post-war aircraft which used this system included the B-50 Superfortress and the B-36 Peacemaker.

The Gyro Flux Gate Compass System comprised of remotely (i.e. inside the wing) mounted flux compass and gryo transmitter, which positioned the compass away from aircraft components which generated their own magnetic fields.  Signals from these components were amplified and transmitted to directional indicators at the pilot's and navigator's stations.  The Caging Switch was an essential component, which would cage, or secure, the wing-mounted gyro when turbulent conditions or maneuvers were anticipated.

This unit has a serial number prefix of AF-47, evidence of a manufacturing year of 1947.  Measures ~4.5 inches long, ~2.5 inches wide, and ~3 inches deep.  It is in exceptional condition given its age.