Converting from BL to BC

[NC22211]

Gents: our '39 BL has the single mag O-145 Lycoming, which we intend to replace with an A65-8 Continental. I heard, unofficially, that the Taylorcraft B Models were all so matched that an engine conversion was not a terrrific FAA nightmare. Does anyone in Taylorcraft land know where to send me to start the conversion? I cannot find an STC, or does one exist. Thanks. Bob

[VictorBravo]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

There is a letter that was written by Dorothy Feris, as the TC holder some years ago, which says all B models were identical firewall aft. As such, the TC data sheet can be used as approved data, and you can install a Continental FWF assembly with little problem.

You will need an engine mount and cooling baffles as far as hardware.

You SHOULD be able to find an IA to do the conversion as a minor alteration BECAUSE the airframes are legally identical (per factory letter). So your IA logbook entry should read "Conversion from BL-65 to equivalent of BC-65 by installing Continental A-65-8 s/n XXXX and associated engine mount and cooling baffles, in accordance with factory letter dated XYZ stating that airframes and engine installations are were interchangeable between all B series airframes."

But you will have to find an IA and a FSDO that are willing to accept common sense and a history of hundreds of these conversions... which is not as e asy as it used to be.

[Greg Bockelman]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

You SHOULD be able to find an IA to do the conversion as a minor alteration BECAUSE the airframes are legally identical (per factory letter). So your IA logbook entry should read "Conversion from BL-65 to equivalent of BC-65 by installing Continental A-65-8 s/n XXXX and associated engine mount and cooling baffles, in accordance with factory letter dated XYZ stating that airframes and engine installations are were interchangeable between all B series airframes."

But you will have to find an IA and a FSDO that are willing to accept common sense and a history of hundreds of these conversions... which is not as e asy as it used to be.

We did a similar thing with my Cessna 190. The TCDS lists both the Continental 670 and the various Jake models. So the conversion was a logbook entry and a new weight and balance. The FSDO had nothing to do with it.

[NC22211]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

Thanks for the quick response! Now to find the letter from Mrs. Ferris! I recall having read about it some time ago, but didn't know it was accepted as doctrine. So, my IA and I change the engine mount, install an overhauled A-65, modify the existing open cowl, do a weight and balance - and submit the change to the FAA. It looks as if a 337 will cover it, if that's how I read your replies. Makes too much good sense to be that easy! We'll press ahead, full speed, then. We found a sweet little A65 off a Chief with less than 1200 hours total time which had been in long term storage. This looks like its first tear-down. We'll have the case, crank and cam Y-tagged, then start building her up. I see Univair and A/C Spruce offer new engine mounts in the $600 range - any ideas on locating one elsewhere? Cheers! Bob Coolbaugh

[Howard Wilson]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

Bob, Check your private messages. Howard

[clayton]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

I have the paper work from Taylorcraft stating that the BL, BF, & BC are the same from the firewall aft. send me an email with your fax number and I'll fax it to you.

[3Dreaming]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

I did one for a customer about 8-10 years ago with a field approval. You will need to have your IA talk to the FAA before starting the work. They have made some policy changes since I did mine that might make it more difficult. If you have any questions about the change I would be glad to answer them. You can call me at 618-393-2967. Tom

[Lubeck]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

Clayton, I think it would be very useful to the group if you could scan this letter and post it on this web site and eventually on the Taylorcraft Foundation web site.

I wouls also like a copy of this letter.

[Forrest Barber]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

Sounds good to me!! somebody inquired today at the Foundation office. YES please post the letter.

[clayton]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

The letter is from Taylorcraft but I am unable to scan the letter do to technical problems. I someone would like to post it please send me a fax number and I will fax it to you so it can be posted.

[barnstmr]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

You can FAX me at 254-853-3805 and I will post it tomorrow.

[Lubeck]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

Here is the letter.

[melndav]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

Guys,
Thanks so much for posting the letter. I've been trying for some time now to get a copy so I can legally put an A-65 on my BL. I appreciate all of the effort.

David

[S2D]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

There is a letter that was written by Dorothy Feris, as the TC holder some years ago, which says all B models were identical firewall aft. As such, the TC data sheet can be used as approved data, and you can install a Continental FWF assembly with little problem.

You will need an engine mount and cooling baffles as far as hardware.

You SHOULD be able to find an IA to do the conversion as a minor alteration BECAUSE the airframes are legally identical (per factory letter). So your IA logbook entry should read "Conversion from BL-65 to equivalent of BC-65 by installing Continental A-65-8 s/n XXXX and associated engine mount and cooling baffles, in accordance with factory letter dated XYZ stating that airframes and engine installations are were interchangeable between all B series airframes."

But you will have to find an IA and a FSDO that are willing to accept common sense and a history of hundreds of these conversions... which is not as easy as it used to be.

I know this is an old thread, but has there been any confirmation or denial from the FAA recently about converting from one TC to another.I know it used to be legal and done frequently but the FAA is now in CYA mode. Are they still allowing it to be done.?

[40tcrate]

Re: Converting from BL to BC

This might work for you it is on ebay. (This engine mount, I"m told was off of a TaylorCraft. The top holes are approximately 16 1/2" apart and the bottom holes are approximately 23 3/4" apart. If you have any questions email or call Dave at: 541-935-3067. Item must be paid within 7 days of auction ending. Buyer is responsible for shipping and handling and/or transportation. Thanks for looking and happy bidding!!)