bob turner
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Could not find the thread - but thought a comment was in order. J4A restored in 2009, kept in a dry hangar and flown about 150 hours since then. We have owned it for 13 months. Just completed my first annual.
First, I am impressed with the restoration. It was on its back after the restoration; I am not quite as impressed with that work, although it is adequate.
I learned how to re-spring oleos, and how to make seats more friendly for mechanics.
My airplanes get plenty of oil - 25 hours and my oil can comes out. I always have some on most important cad plated parts. So I never have significant corrosion.
The J4 tail brace wires and fittings are streamlined, but carbon steel. They are ok, but were dry - some light corrosion on the threads. Oil! I have never seen carbon steel streamlined wires.
But worse - those beautiful brand new Univair lift strut forks - the leading edge of the front fork had been blasted by prop wash, and a light coat of rust had set in.
I have been paying attention to the Stearman clevises - they are old - but now I will make it a point to put a little oil or grease on the J4 fittings as well. Don't let these things corrode!
First, I am impressed with the restoration. It was on its back after the restoration; I am not quite as impressed with that work, although it is adequate.
I learned how to re-spring oleos, and how to make seats more friendly for mechanics.
My airplanes get plenty of oil - 25 hours and my oil can comes out. I always have some on most important cad plated parts. So I never have significant corrosion.
The J4 tail brace wires and fittings are streamlined, but carbon steel. They are ok, but were dry - some light corrosion on the threads. Oil! I have never seen carbon steel streamlined wires.
But worse - those beautiful brand new Univair lift strut forks - the leading edge of the front fork had been blasted by prop wash, and a light coat of rust had set in.
I have been paying attention to the Stearman clevises - they are old - but now I will make it a point to put a little oil or grease on the J4 fittings as well. Don't let these things corrode!
