T-6 Resto

[tmab11]

So in all honesty what is the amount of work involved in restoring a T-6. This is coming from a private SEL soon to be instrument pilot who would like to undertake such a feat. After looking through the forums I have found that the parts would not be a problem, the main problem just being me I am not daunted by the amount of work involved, but just want to get started. Correct me if I am wrong, but an A&P mechanic must sign off on all work done, for me this is not a problem as my uncle is certified as such.

Also, if anyone knows of anyone in the NC area that is restoring such an aircraft, or any kind for that matter, that I could get in touch with, or help out for the experience point my in the right direction and it will be greatly appreciated...

Thanks

Thomas

[wacoykc]

The T-6 is not a beginner's airplane to restore unless you have lots of cash. You need an IA to sign things off, not an A&P. The airplane may seem undaunting at first glance but they are far more complex for what the avaerage guy can do. Lots of systems to overhaul. The engine and prop would obviously be sent out for overhaul and that is going to cost $40K plus. Far more economic to buy a flyer that may need some TLC.

[Airplanejunkie]

I'd have to agree with Wacoykc. With airplane prices where they are right now, a "flying project" might make more sense, or even a nice one (disclaimer: I haven't been watching T-6 prices closely.)

Even doing much of the work yourself it would be easy to invest far more in the project than it would be worth. I know one guy with a long term project who probably has 40-50K invested just in hangar rent, not to mention insurance and the lost "time value" of his initial investment. It'll be a pretty expensive project by the time he gets done......

If you're looking for the satisfaction of doing a project yourself, go for it!! If you're looking for a cost effective way to get into a nice T-6 in the near future, I'd think carefully about it.

Steve

[bdk]

In the three to five years (although I've had my project nearly 20 years) it will take you to restore one, if your goal is to fly, just save your pennies and buy one already airworthy. And I've got waaaay more than $50K in hangar rent under my belt.

[N3Njeff]

Take it one step down, plenty of great BT-13 projects out there.

[Project Warbird]

Thomas,

I have been involved in three T-6 restorations, Harvard 4, SNJ-5, T-6G. We restored the Harvard in 2 1/2 years. I feel that the T-6 is a great project for the reason that you can find all the parts, and don't have to spend large amounts of money to have parts made. It is one of those projects you can do in your garage ( if it is big enough). It all depends on what you want. If you want to save another vintage aircraft from rotting away, or just fix up one that is flying. Eather way you will be spending big money. Make sure you really want to do this before you start. You also have to think about the money it will take to buy all the tools you will need.
I live in Asheville NC. If you need any help with looking at T-6's, let me know.