P59? Aerocomet?

[peter]

What happened t the restoration to flight of this aircraft?

[AHancock51]

The Airacomet restoration to fly at the Planes of Fame is still on-going, not stopped. IIRC, slow mostly due to lack of resources, mainly money! But others here probably have more direct knowledge of the matter. But my understanding is that it is at the top of their current restoration list.

I read in an article a couple years back that the USAF already approached them about putting it up with an F-22 in the Heritage Flight. That would be one heck of a sight!

[peter]

good to hear work is still ongoing then...

[mrp]

Next year is what I was told. Here it is at the show in May. Nothing major left to do , just the canopy and some of the cockpit. I am sure that some one with a closer idea will pop in with further details.

mrp

[marine air]

Okay I have to ask? Are any parts on the P-59 interchangeable with the P-39, P-63 or Bell 47?

[P51Mstg]

Yeah, I think the rotor blades interchange with a Bell 47............

Mark H

[Mike]

I also hear that the flux capacitor from a Boeing 787 is interchangable with the one fitted to the B-17

[Rick65]

I am very nervous about asking this question because I don't want to start a flying v non flying diatribe.

BUT does anyone have information on what has been done to make the early jet engines on this plane reliable enough for sustained flight.
I am sure that I read somewhere that one of the best attributes of the P59 was that it was a good glider when the engines failed as they apparently did often?
Responses that have information on the original problems with the engines and potential solutions only please.

[P51Mstg]

I never heard that one. I did talk to the guys and the plane uses like 600GPH for fuel and carries 300 gallons...... Potential for being a glider there, or at least, not getting too far from base....

Still really cool plane, awesome restoration...

Mark H

[51fixer]

I am very nervous about asking this question because I don't want to start a flying v non flying diatribe.

BUT does anyone have information on what has been done to make the early jet engines on this plane reliable enough for sustained flight.
I am sure that I read somewhere that one of the best attributes of the P59 was that it was a good glider when the engines failed as they apparently did often?
Responses that have information on the original problems with the engines and potential solutions only please.

Engines plus at least one spare were overhauled by Aviall/Ryder.
I believe the plans are to fly this sparingly as is done with the Zero and Flying Wing.
Workmanship and the level of work is very high on this. Some spar Caps have been replaced IIRC. The spar carry through in the fuselage is solid steel.
As far as components interchangeable with P-39 or P-63 I don't think there is much. Maybe in the landing gear system as being Bell it is similar in how it operates.

Rich