WIX Archives

Re: British Warbirds

Posted by Tom on Fri Oct 04, 2002 01:22:25 PM

In reply top British Warbirds posted by Gareth Sharp on Wed Oct 02, 2002 05:12:59 AM

OK I'll bite. The reason that Tempests aren't too abundant in the skies is basically because there are no projects for a MKV out there other than EJ693 and also there aren't any wealthy businessmen willing to spend millions, and when I say millions I mean MILLIONS, to get a Sabre into running condition is not an easy or cheap thing to come by and the techniques for getting one in that state are a forgotten art. Also there are less parts out there for Tempests than most people think, we are having to make brand new tailplanes from the battered remains of MKII examples Kermit got with the project and I'll probably have the job of making new ribs for the sorry thing we call a rudder, woo hoo! :-/ With the MKII there are not many prospective buyers out there for them as they would cost a fair packet to get flying and haven't got the history of the MKV so don't sell quickly or for the amount it would cost to restore one. On the subject of Tiffies, I think, like yourself, that the only stumbling point would be the powerplants though I think that a Griffon would fit and do a better and more reliable job if it were to come about. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to see and hear one growling and popping around but I just don't think it will happen.

Tom ;)

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