Thorp Air Command - T18.net

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“The Marines I have seen around the world have the cleanest bodies, the filthiest minds, the highest morale, and the lowest morals of any group of animals I have ever seen. Thank God for the United States Marine Corps!”

The age should not be a factor, Workmanship and price would be a consideration. As for the engine, pull one of the cylinders off and look at the cam. Sitting this long could produce rust. Compare what you pay for the project a with todays prices to buy new, could be a good deal.

Beans huh....wife thinks you and I might get along - I can only imagine where that came from.... - if it were me, once you have determined the workmanship and the motors condition, and gotten it home, I would take apart what I could - remove wings and break down the sections, same wih the tail, cowl, etc., unscrew every panel and organize all the parts and pieces and take photos - then study the drawings (maybe do that before the afformentioned steps)and commence reassemble. This will accomplish two things - it will start your own "builder's log" and it will give you peace of mind as you start knowing and understanding the aircraft more intimately. I too questioned the requirements of the builder's log, and was told by my seasoned and Highley sought after T-18 psychiatrist that the plane had to be 51% amateur built but not necessarily meaning YOU had to be the 51%er - only one "repairman cert" issued per airplane tho.

As you have been lurking here for some time, you know the level of support and encouragement you have from the good folk on these threads.

I've just entered the twilight zone myself having just purchased a similar project, after selling my once beloved Brazen Cheating Hussy perfectly good "flying" T-18C to a snowbird - Go get one and we'll see who can finish up first - I'll show you mine if you show us yours.

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Fraser MacPhee
N926WM
Serial #279-1
Angel Fire, NM (KAXX)

Brad: I agree with Bill, age should not be a factor. Workmanship and "attention to detail" need to be evaluated. Is there a T-18 builder in your area that can look at it ? Maybe another experienced builder or sheet metal mechanic ? A 40 year old engine (that has not been started) is certainly going to be a challenge ! A bore scope or cylinder removal would be required, in my opinion, to look for rust and or corrosion. Another factor to consider will be the engine AD's and any prop AD's ? The age may suggest at least an oil pump AD.

It goes without saying all the rubber items (hoses/gaskets) will need replacing. Lack of logs ? Not sure how that works. As far as a builder log, if there are pics of the building process it may be possible to "recreate" a log. The lawyers in the group may have more advice on this subject or a visit to the local FSDO may have an answer.

You may have found a Gem. To buy all the parts in a "kit form"(less engine, instruments, etc), is around $17,000 plus shipping.

You really need an experienced set of eyes to review this project and give you an honest opinion as to the...

1. Construction techniques used.
2. Materials used. ie: aircraft grade metal/fittings/parts.

RB
NX115RX

Funny thing Brad...I was going to suggest you hook up with Fraser and pick his noodle for advice as he has purchased one the these 95% completed projects. At this point in time I think all the useful information in Fraser's brain has been sucked out ! It may be possible to do a partial Mind Melt and recover some useful information ! [:p]

RB

Many thanks to those that responded to my inquiry (love this forum already). I have contacted several Technical Advisors in my area who have provided similiar advice and hope to act on it in the near future with the seller's permission. I will keep the forum notified of my progress.
Thanks again,
Beans

_________________
“The Marines I have seen around the world have the cleanest bodies, the filthiest minds, the highest morale, and the lowest morals of any group of animals I have ever seen. Thank God for the United States Marine Corps!”