Current WildCat Restorations ?

[Triplane102]

Any info if there are any current wildcat restorations going on ? When Fagan fighters bought their Wildcat, there were said to be several others used for parts & info. including the ex CAF's Wildcat.

Last edited by Triplane102 on Sun Aug 11, 2019 1:52 pm, edited 1 time in total.

[JohnTerrell]

The three other Conrad Huffstutler/"Wild Warbirds" FM-2 Wildcat projects were all sold back in 2013 and are now in the UK, registered to "Wildcat WP Ltd". Those being the Lake Michigan-recovery BuNo.55404 now registered as G-WCMO, the former CAF Wildcat BuNo.55585 (former N681S) now registered as G-WCME, and BuNo.86750 (former N12371/N750FM) now registered as G-WCMI.

Also in the UK is the FM-2 BuNo.86690, I believe being currently restored at Duxford for Tom Harris, registered as G-KINL (this project had been with the Shuttleworth Collection on static display between 2011-2016).

Although not to flight, the Kalamazoo Air Zoo has been restoring the Lake Michigan-recovery FM-2 BuNo.57039. I'm not aware of any other Wildcat restorations currently taking place. The CAF's Wildcat has recently been in the process of being repainted into a more authentic scheme.

[Tee]

The CAF's Wildcat has recently been in the process of being repainted into a more authentic scheme.

This should be interesting.

[JohnTerrell]

I believe I know who's working on it (a lot of experience in reproducing authentic WWII paint schemes on warbirds) - if so, it will be exceptional.

[OD/NG]

I believe I know who's working on it (a lot of experience in reproducing authentic WWII paint schemes on warbirds) - if so, it will be exceptional.

Yes, it will be exceptional. I've seen what it looks like and it will be a "night and day" difference from the previous paint job. Authenticity will be the standard for this refined piece of art. All of you will absolutely love it!

[Triplane102]

Thanks John T.,& OG/NG, Well, there should be at Least one of the 3 in England in British Navy markings !
Can't wait to see the CAF's in it's new paint ! That camo. job was sure "interesting" ....