Thorp Air Command - T18.net

Just remembered the original engine was involved in serious accident, pancaked in in a glider towing incident back in the 70's. Wonder if something was tweaked with the mounts on that engine and Bert built the cowlings to fit. Would explain why our engine fits a bit different.

I highly doubt it. The engine mounts are cast into the case. If they are tweaked, the case would be cracked.
Cubes

Probably right on that Cubes, also checked and no vertical tail offset.
Going with the theory that with the spinner backplate centered in the cowl should be close to the same alignment as the previous 1500 hrs Bert flew. Will go with that and move on to the next item on the project.

Thanks for all the input.

Major progress on the Thorp this past week, ready to fly soon? Maybe not as winter has come early with a touch of snow on the ground.

Awesome! Get some training!
Cubes

Looks beautiful!

In the air again!

Got a few flights done on the T18 earlier this fall, it flies great but have a few issues to sort out prop wise. The 68x68 used on the O290 is too fine for the O320. My instructor recommended we don't do a bunch of circuits on the newly rebuilt engine so only got a few landings done so far. Looking at options for a replacement.

Our grass strip is a little rough after a dry summer, heard rumor that the Thorp gear isn't suitable for operations off a rough strip. Is this something to be worried about?

Smart instructor. Get the motor broken in first. That is your highest priority. That requires you minimize operations at low power settings.
I’ve got an O320 in the Tigress. I ordered a Catto some time back. Still waiting for it.
The gear on the Thorp is very strong. Rough strips can damage almost any gear. You wheel pants will take most of the problem. Our gear can develop cracks in the gusset weld on the lower front sides. It shouldn’t be an issue, but something to look out for.
Cubes