Re-Build

[Sloanlow]

Ok you guys I need some direction here. I'm new around here but this is my 3rd Taylorcraft construction since childhood. Dad and I built them and flew them along with a guy down the street who was the expert. But that was in the late 60's. It’s been awhile.

I love the T-Craft and want to do this one right because it’s a keeper. The problem is what is right? And how do I get started? Currently I am cleaning the fuselage, so the sky is the limit. I want to install a brake on the passenger side and go to the c-85 case with an o200 crank or an o200 and associated STC. I'm leaning toward keeping it LSA.

Jim
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[paulp]

Re: Re-Build

Howdy Jim,

Get ready for a chore! The good news is that it sounds like you have a complete airplane. I did the stroker conversion(0200 STC) on my 85 and I think it was worth the price but I now have a model 19(1500 mgtow) which won't fit in the sport pilot. I don't see any reason that the stroker kit couldn't be used on the 85-8 but I would recommend that you check with Superior Aeromotive in Tulsa, OK. They have the STC and they would know. It is my understanding that if the TC weight is 1320 or less the acft can be flown by an individual licesenced in the sp category even though the acft is certified in the standard category. Anyway, there are a great bunch of folks on this forum and they are VERY, VERY helpful and can give you a lot of guidance.

Good luck with your project and keep us advised.

[VictorBravo]

Re: Re-Build

In my opinion, having just done most of the Harer STC,

Do your own 337 form for the 85 horse engine. Several have been done, which makes it "approved data" for the FSDO to approve it.

Make the fuel lines 5/16 or 3/8" diameter. Put the 11/16" bushings in the spar root fitting, and epoxy them in. Make up new spar root fittings (great photos and nistructions on Rob Lees' website) Remove the spar/strut fittings, thoroughly inspect the wood, perhaps glue in new bushings. Weld the small steel plate across the fittings making them one piece, or buy a set of F-19 fittings if you can find them. Make sure all fuel tanks are vented with little pitot tube vents. Make a thorough ijspection of the welded fittings on the fuselage for the spars and struts. If necessary, weld 4130 washers on as doublers to eliminate and oval or enlarged holes. Consider adding a gusset or strap to make it completely solid (making sure everything will still fit together after it's all done).

Again, my opinion only. This is what I would have done if I had it to do over again. I have a whole bucket full of notes and experiences with doing this if you would like it. But it is not officially approved in any way.

[zero.one.victor]

Re: Re-Build

Evidently, there is more than one STC for the O200 crank/rods/pistons into the C-85. Aircraft Specialties Service (advertises in GA News and T-A-P) has one, as does Don's Dream Machines in (I believe) Georgia.

Eric

[Mark Julicher]

Re: Re-Build

And how do I get started?


Jim,
Good on You! The "Tribe" loves to help with T-craft projects!
Not wanting to be too basic, given your rebuild background, but to get started "right" make sure you have all the right data. I.E., a copy of the Type Certificate Data Sheet, a CD of that particular Taylorcraft's information from FAA, a copy of Advisory Circular 43-13, and a copy of all the STCs you want to install during the rebuild.

Once you have all that paper in hand, find an I/A you can work with, then go view Rob Lee's web site about three times.

Good Luck and keep us posted.