L3B restoration project

[n47503]

Hi everyone, I have recently aquired a very bent L3B. I very much would like to retore this aircraft. I have a few options to complete the this restoration:
I can begin this project if i can find one or all of the following:
1) Need a complete sound L3B Fuselage or similar with tail section
2) Purchase or share in a Jig so current frame can be rebuilt

[Paul Agaliotis]

It might be tough to find a fixture for this fuselage. Most of the stuff it pretty simple construction and for a one off repair you might be able to whip something out of 2x6's. Get the fuselage drawing and give it a shot.
I have a L3B project if you need something measured or verified.
Paul

[Al Hatz]

L-3 frame on Barnstormers for $2500.

[joea]

Agree with Paul, doubt that you will find a jig for an L-3.

I know of three Champ jig's in the country and thats it and not one for a Chief, so jigs are pretty scarce.

[kyleb]

Agree with Paul, doubt that you will find a jig for an L-3.

I know of three Champ jig's in the country

Three?

I know of Brian's. Where are the others?

By the way, I agree that you probably won't find a jig for something made in small numbers like an L-3.

[joea]

Kyle,

I know of Brian Safrans, and that one was originally Bill Pancake's jig.

Then there is one at a shop in Texas that restores Champs. Forgotten where in the state but its there or was a year or two.

Lastly I know that there is at least one and probably two at American Champion, the people making the modern Champs. Believe that their fuselage jig will accept the original 7AC airframe.

Joe

[n47503]

Thanks, i will do the research

[joea]

For a pre-war, I would think that you are pretty limited.

Would get the blueprint for the fuselage, and make your own jig out of wood and go from there.

[Jerry Jackson]

The owner of the 7AC fuselage jig in Houston died in a car crash. Carl White may be able to tell you where the jig went.

[joea]

Jerry,

Any chance you know the name of the gent in Houston? Sure hoping that its not someone we know...

Thx,

Joe

[Nathan K. Hammond]

There should be a Champ jig in North Georgia...... someday....

...cough...cough... DJ!!!

nkh

[MikeB]

I was thinking Safe Air had one (or so I was told ). Wag Aero bought most of their parts, equipment, etc. but I don't think they bought the jig if it even existed or maybe it went to Champion in Rochester, Wi.

Mike

[kyleb]

There should be a Champ jig in North Georgia...... someday....

...cough...cough... DJ!!!

nkh

He's gonna put it right next to the Unicorn ranch.