NASM Microfilm

[51fixer]

I have been told by a friend who works for NASM that the microfilm division will be moving at the end of this summer-
The message-

Down here, we are getting ready to move out to the Udvar-Hazy Center at Dulles this Fall, and will be closing down for requests for awhile. As of August 1st, we will stop taking requests for microfilm, manuals and drawings reproduction until we get set back up. I don’t know that we had much here that could help you, but just a heads-up in case there was anything.

If you need anything order now.

Rich

[warbird1]

Is it true, or just a rumor that NASM won't provide blueprints of an extinct aircraft type for someone who wants to build a new 100% scale flying replica?

[51fixer]

Is it true, or just a rumor that NASM won't provide blueprints of an extinct aircraft type for someone who wants to build a new 100% scale flying replica?

To procure the microfilm you sign a form stating that you will only use the info for reference and research only.
There may be another level of usage available such as using to produce new parts for a flying aircraft, but I'm unsure on that policy.
Remember, they don't want liability.
Rich

[gunnyperdue]

So, who is the contact and how do you get in touch with this office?

thanks,
gunny

[Cvairwerks]

Gunny: This will get you close. You should be able to navigate around from there and find what you are looking for.

http://www.nasm.si.edu/collections/

I've got a couple of sets of film from them over the years. One set had virtually no restrictions on it, while others have the current disclaimer/admonishment forms and warnings. Turnaround time on orders varies based on order size and backlog. When I ordered the last set, from check cashing to delivery was about 9 weeks. With the upcoming move, I would anticipate if you ordered now, you probably would be safe on them going out for reproduction prior to the move, but I would confirm with a call first. I don't know the current costs, but the last time I looked, it was about 30$ a reel plus shipping.

One thing to consider is that if you need more than a couple of drawings, it would be a lot easier to just order the roll it's on. If you have to have a number of different rolls, order the entire set. Be aware that drawing practices of those days ofter used interlocking drawings....this part is made from this basic part which was made from this one....so you might end up needing more drawings than you think to fab a part.

Also be forewarned that drawing quality can be anywhere from "hand it to the fab guy" to " WTF?' Often when they were filmed, it was done in a rapid manner with no concern or backcheck that the film was actually readable. I've got drawings that are so bad, I am going to have to regenerate them in a 3D program before I can fab the parts.

[gunnyperdue]

Thanks for the pointers!

gunny

[51fixer]

It was asked that for contacting NASM about inquiries for microfilm needs you go through the downtown office at-
http://www.nasm.si.edu/research/arch/?hp=m

Rich

[Cvairwerks]

From the Collections Overview page, hit the Archival tab and you end up in the same place. I just grabbed and truncated a direct link to a specific set of drawing information from one of the type clubs that I am part of. With the revamping of their websites, there is a tremendous amount of info available online that used to be only viewable in person.

[pilot06]

Speaking of NASM microfilm, does anyone have the sets for the T-6G?

Patrick