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mainspar details

Posted by Rob Mears on Tue May 27, 2003 11:23:04 AM

In reply top Re: Cavanaugh Corsair on gear (pic) posted by Rob Mears on Tue May 27, 2003 11:07:43 AM

Here's a photo from Matt Sharkey that better illustrates the immensity of the Corsair's main spar. It reaches all the way to the end of each wing stub, which is about 16 feet wide altogether. Practically every other major component on the Corsair attaches to this "backbone" which underlies its importance to any F4U project. Reiley's restoration crew had to use methods contrary to factory specifications in order to successfully remanufacture the spar shown in this picture. The methods used were approved by the FAA which leads me to believe this was a successful venture at least in term of the fabrication.

If there were a supply of these spars available, the idea of realistically creating new-production Corsairs might match what we are seeing in regard to other warbirds today such as the Mustang, etc. Hopefully the day will come where someone will take the reins on the idea and take Corsair production to the next level.

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