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Windsor Lanc update

Posted by Jim Church on Sat May 03, 2003 10:06:56 PM

In reply top Dropped the ball posted by peter on Sat May 03, 2003 03:59:46 PM

Spent a few hours today visiting with Windsor's Lanc (FM212). The guys had her all opened up for instection and cleaning. All the engine cowls were off, the bomb bay doors open as well as the gear doors. The engies were being lubed up, and all still tutn freely. I got there after the inspectors had gone through her, but I understand they liked what they saw. I was lucky enough to get inside to inspect the interior. I was finally able to see first hand the system used to pole mount these Canadian Lancs, and the damage done to the spars, as I had always wondered about that. A cutting torch was used to remove large sections of the spars (front and rear), and large support beams were then bolted in place. In other words, the spars are trashed. The group still hopes to one day bring her off the pole, and put her under cover. It will take a lot of work convincing the local officials (it is owned by the City of Windsor) to do this however. Afterward, I went to the CHAA hanger at Windsor Airport to see the T-33 recently gifted to them by the RCAF. Nice looking bird! The Mosquito project is still moving along, although (seemingly) slowly. The wing spars are complete, and a jig has been built to assemle the unit. It is hoped that the new-build fuselage will arrive from New Zealand shortly. The Lanc's ailerons are in the shop here too, awaiting new fabric before going back on the aircraft. Also inside the hanger was one of the group's two Chippies, and their Stearman. The other Chippie was getting some engine work done in another hanger on the field. All in all a very enjoyable day! Jim

James P. Church Aviation Photography

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