Navigating life by foot and by air with a side of optimism
The past few days have been spent inside, snow coming down around us like a shaken snow globe. Fourteen inches fell in just over a day. Thankfully, it was snow and not ice like areas farther south received. It’s been beautiful and quiet—one of those rare pauses that gently reminds you to slow down, take... Continue Reading →
A mentor is restoring a Beechcraft B-17R Staggerwing, drawing from historical research and conversations on construction techniques. Progress is slow, measured in small victories, with intricate work expected for each wing. Amid fabrication challenges due to unavailability of parts, the project exemplifies patience and craftsmanship in aviation restoration.
The restorer and I stopped by his mentor’s shop to pick up a drawing for a small part needed on his Staggerwing project. He has had good luck locating some components, but others, like these tiny washers, will need to be replicated directly from the drawing. It was a familiar scene. When the restorer was... Continue Reading →
I am still in an introspective frame of mind as Christmas gives way to the New Year. Over the past year, we have made meaningful strides on Mama’s Chief. What I have not mentioned here was we have also reorganized our lives in a very tangible way by moving closer to the airport where Sis,... Continue Reading →
The Aeronca haven has transformed from a mere vision to a functional space showcasing various Aeronca aircraft, including the first resident, Nell. Recent organizational efforts have created display areas for engines, facilitating hands-on learning and support for ongoing restoration projects. The haven serves as a crucial resource for local Aeronca enthusiasts.
After Priming The day after priming Mama’s Chief, we walked into the restoration shop with fresh eyes. Overall, the fuselage looked good. A few places needed touch up where the coverage was light or where the paint gun could not reach between tubes. The other restorer pointed out several areas that needed a bit more... Continue Reading →
The restoration journey of Mama’s Chief, a 1946 Aeronca 11AC, is highlighted through a day of preparatory painting. The restorer emphasizes the importance of protecting the aircraft's steel structure from rust by applying primer and paint. The experience blends the challenges of restoration with personal connections, providing a reflective perspective on teamwork and progress.
The restoration of Mama's 1946 Aeronca 11AC Chief involves crucial repairs before priming. The team will utilize a rotator for accessibility during painting. Extensive preparation ensures a successful primer application to protect the aircraft. With each step, the project honors the past while moving closer to bringing Mama's Chief back to flight.
After meticulous preparation, Mama’s Chief, a 1946 Aeronca 11AC, was sandblasted to remove old coatings, ensuring optimal paint adhesion. The restoration team, along with an Aeronca friend, successfully transported the fuselage, preparing it for priming. This critical step protects the aircraft for decades ahead, continuing a cherished family legacy.
The narrative describes the restoration process of Mama's Chief, a 1946 Aeronca Chief. A sandblaster is needed to clean the fuselage before painting, and the restorer coordinates logistics despite scheduling challenges. Friends assist in transportation, highlighting the collaborative spirit in aviation restoration as plans evolve rapidly due to time constraints and weather conditions.