National Aeronca Association Bulletin Board

Over the winter, I'm planning on rebuilding my spare A65 with the help of my AI (to keep things legal). I plan on sending all the machine work out, but have been looking at locating other parts: bearing kits, gasket sets, rod bolts, nuts, etc. I don't see much for any suppliers, although I haven't looked that hard yet, other than Fresno Air Parts. At this point, I plan on using new Superior cylinder kits, but I'd be open to other ideas.
Long term project, right now, so I've got some time to think about it.

I'd be interested in any response/information regarding Fresno or other suppliers of A65 parts. Thanks......Mike.

Mike I’m going through this scenario right now with a C-85. Sent the case to Crankcase Services Inc. (CSI) and was very pleased at the quality and cost. (CSI started by 2 guys who left Divco to start their own shop) The internal steel all went to Aircraft Specialty Services, and even though I had a semi-bad experience, I still use them because of their reaction to the situation. (http://www.joea.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=380&start=0) As for all the other little stuff you have to buy, I’ve found a couple different outlets. First was El Reno Aviation in Oklahoma. They are a little bit on the high side in cost, but they’re always pleasant, friendly and easy to deal with. That’s worth the extra cost in my opinion. Next was a local engine shop (Don’s Dream Machines) that took me under their wing and sold me parts I needed. Superior all so sells lots of the parts you’ll need to replace. Cylinders are another big ticket item. If I had the money, I would have gotten new ECI Cermi-nickle jugs, next would have been a set of Superior. But I had to save some money and get Don to build up a set for me. For $550 I got a Std Cyl reconditioned to new limits with all new parts (valve guides, valves, springs, piston, pin rings and rocker shaft.)

Fresno Air Parts:

When I started on the C-85, I was going to get everything from Fresno because they seemed to be less expensive than everyone else. So I started asking around the local shops and talked with my father, IA 30+ years. Immediately I was chastised for thinking about using them. Seems they had a bad problem of selling bogus parts. You would order bearings and you would get a box with bearings wrapped in newspaper; not in the Continental box and with out paperwork. Fresno seems to have a reputation as the “Walmart” of air parts…. as in you don’t go to wal-mart for important airplane parts like bearings. Just one opinion made from listening to several professionals.

nkh


El Reno Aviation
1004 S Country Club Rd
El Reno, OK 73036-4910
(405) 262-8805

Have also used El Reno when overhauling a A-75 and was very happy with their service and parts.

You have time so look around and hopefully others will post to this thread.

JoeA

Thanks for the info, Nathan. I'd kind of heard that before (uncertified parts). I may be wrong, but don't believe you can get ECI cylinders for A65's. I've been thinking Superior, but going to look at the cost too. There aren't a lot of reconditionable A65 jugs laying around and I've already stole some off my spare engine to keep my present (AP/AI rebuilt/ugh!!) engine going (another story). Not too fond of chrome, although some have had good experiences with it......especially in the low horsepower engines.

Just gathering information now and it's a long winter in Northern Wisconsin. Luckly, I have skis.

Mike: As you know I have the Milleniums on my 65. Keep in mind that they have a 45 degree exhaust valve grind, so they will work with 100ll. Some lead (my case 25% mix) must be used or wear will occur on the seats. OEMs are 30 degree and would be just as happy burning varsol However they are Superior in all ways to OEMs. If you use Fresno, check the parts carefully.
One example of this was when I needed a new tapered shaft nut. The first one I bought was good. On ordering one for another person I found the threads as being extremely sloppy on the nut. I sent them back and eventually got a good fit. Quality control will be up to you, when dealing with these guys, as they don't seem to do it. They do have some OEM stuff in stock, like cams etc. Do not recommend any hardware, rod bolts and nuts, cylinder nuts from them. The important stuff stay with known quallity.
Ron