Rebuild Cost?

[Mikeamondo]

Okay, as I continue my research into T-craft ownership, how much money should I factor in for rebuilding the original C-65 in a '45 or '46 BC12?
Also, how much would the conversion to a model 19 cost? I'm not sure I'd want to do that, but I'd like to have a ballpark idea of the total cost of conversion.

Thanks,
Mike

[Grant S. Bailey]

Re: Rebuild Cost?

Whatever figure you come up with, double it !! That is my rule of thumb gained from experience.

[paulp]

Re: Rebuild Cost?

Howdy Mike,

My conversion from a BC12-D to a model 19, with me doing most of the work, was in the 18K neighborhood. This, however, included a major on the TCM85 with an 0200 conversion that accounts for about $9K. But with the conversion, I replaced all of the pulleys, cables, most of the hardware and recovered the fus., wings & control surfaces. Basically, I have a brand new 1945 airplane. Oh, I forgot the avionics and instrument(s) overhaul and the paint job. I plan to have the interior redone this summer. That will run around another 1K, including the dash. By the way, I added panel lighting, a landing light, STC for spin-on oil filter & SkyTec starter. I also had the metal McCauley prob remanned and put on a new tail wheel(Scott) and new tubes and tires.

Was it worth it? IT IS WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!!!!! Would I do it again? Not only NO but Hell NO!! I would find one that was already done and pay the price!

Be very careful. Once you get a little taste of the Tcraft there will be no going back. And, after about 150-200 hours, you will learn to love the airplane.

[Mikeamondo]

Re: Rebuild Cost?

150 to 200 hours?!?!?! I've only managed 105 in three years! Of course, that's because I'm renting a plane an hour from where I live.... but still.... even with ownership at my local airport.... that will be a couple years for me! Or were you exaggerating for dramatic effect? (I guess all the smilies might have clued me in

Seriously.... what are the little peculiarities of this plane, and how long does it take to get used to them?

--M

[Richard Boyer]

Re: Rebuild Cost?

As with any tail wheel plane, you have to stay on top of it.
Things I don't like:
I am 6'4" and have to stoop to look out the window.
It is a tight fit and there isn't much leg room. Wish I could lean the seat back.

On the plus side, for the money this is the best airplane I have ever flown. I flew an RV8 a long time ago and that was incredible, BUT, holy crap is that thing expensive. People say the T is hard to get into and out of. I would agree to a point. The first 5 times were a bit of a struggle until I developed a "system". What I have noticed is that there are about 3 good systems for getting in. I offer my suggestion to passengers and then watch them to see how they do it.

I bought mine completely restored and still had a lot of tinkering to do. Loved every second of it. What I could not have done, was buy a basket case and started from scratch. I actually wanted to fly before I retire in 30 years. The guys on this list that do that have my UTMOST respect!

Go fly one. I went on the advice of my best friends Dad. Did a pre buy up in Wyoming with him and flew it home with him. Never flew one before that and I haven't looked back since!

Richard Boyer
N95791
Georgetown, TX

[paulp]

Re: Rebuild Cost?

Howdy Mike,

First of all, you need to fly at least an hour a week in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms!!!!! Oh, and remain current. The Taylorcraft, Cessna 140, Luscombe,ect areall RUDDER AIRPLANES. The Tcraft, because of the low wing loading, will tend to float on landing, if you let it. Don't fight it in the air. It will fly itself if you let it although it will still require constant rudder input. Remember it'sa rudder airplane. If you are tall, good luck cause it's going to
get cramped real quick. when utaxi in a cross wind, you have to stay on the rudder.Remember, it's a rudder airplane. To's & ldgs require a lot of rudder input, because it has a tendency to wander around if left to its' self. Remember, it's a rudder airplane. Stall, spins, ect are benign but do require that you stay on top of the airplane. Takes a lot of rudder. I guess that is because it's a rudder airplane. It has a heater that will warm the cabin up to about 30 deg in the winter but that is the nature of the heating system.(or lack thereof). But that is not a big concern because you will get plenty of exrecise working the rudder peddles. Remember its a rudder airplane. It is noisy, drafty and will require constant care, love and attention. It will force you to take time and money that could be better used elsewhere such as paying bills and yard work and dedicate it to maintaince, storage and fuel.
Your wife and family will grow to hate the airplane and ultimately resent you for owning the damn thing. And I promise you that you will learn to love this airplane and will not be able to understand why others don't feel the same way. If you don't beleive me, ask any Taylorcraft owner. When you own one, you will become a part of a very special group of folks who are very special people. You won't be disappointed.

Oh, by the way, did I mention that it's a rudder airplane.

[Mikeamondo]

Re: Rebuild Cost?

So......... does it require alot of rudder?

Mike