The restoration of N1579E

[kwinters]

First of all, credit where credit is due. Last year, my wife called me and told me she found 'my airplane.' One of her co-workers at the school where they both teach inherited an airplane - and it was for sale. The timing was ironic because my daughter and I were watching the afternoon airshow at OSH when she called. So, Kim, if you ever read this, I love you babe - you're the best.

Upon returning to NC, I met with the gentleman who owned N1579E and learned its history. The plane was owned by Mr. Marvin Orr. He died before the plane could be restored. The plane was willed to the son, who did not have the desire to undertake the rebuild. It has been languishing in a storage building, disassembled. All the pieces were there...so I bought it.

There's a really good story about the FAA and the ensuing paperwork but I'll save it for another time.

Anyway, N1579E is now residing in my two-car garage. I am presently 'purging' all non-aviation-related 'stuff' and organizing all the bits and pieces of plane parts so I can begin restoring MY airplane.

This post serves as a placeholder for the restoration effort and I am hoping ya'll will chime in and offer advice, admonishment, and encouragement as I make this journey.

Kevin

[Champ Dreamer]

Kevin.

Congrats! I was just about where you are 3 years ago, and I will soon be flying my project. I think you will find the journey to be a wonderful one. My project has been my "therapy" as it progressed. One of the nice things about working on a Champ (or Chief) is that there is such a variety of things to do. If you get tired of working on wood, you can switch to metal, or fabric, or aluminum et al. I don't know what your experience level is, but you will definitely have plenty when you are done. This was my fisrt recover job, and I enjoyed it immensly.

I just finished assembling the engine (major O/H) and hope to hang it this week. Then install the instrument panel, cowl, then wings.

Best of luck and don't get discouraged.

Brian Walker
N1197E 7AC/DC

[kwinters]

Brian - thanks for the post and encouragement. This will be my first aircaft restoration and I plan on doing the work myself with a few people looking over my shoulder. This morning I am posting two pictures of N1579E, as she sits today. I'm going to start on the fuselage first (as soon as I can locate an inspector to review my progress).

Having the plane at home will make working on it MUCH easier I think.

Kevin