Rick65 wrote:
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