Update on B-17E 41-2595 "Desert Rat"

[aerovin]

I had the opportunity to spend some time with Mike Kellner and team members working to restore the B-17E/XC-108A at Marengo, IL. I just posted an update with some photos here:
https://www.aerovintage.com/2023/08/05/b-17e-41-2595-restoration-update-july-29-2023/

I had some outdated pages on my aerovintage site on the history and restoration of 41-2595. I just updated those pages too and suggest that anyone wanting more information take a look here too:
https://www.aerovintage.com/desert-rat-main-page/
One of the added items is the ability to donate directly to the Desert Rat team. I set up a monthly $10 donation from me just to support the cause and assist in creating a revenue stream to keep the restoration going.

[TAdan]

Thanks for the update Scott. Nice to see they are making steady progress.

[Noha307]

My only question is: What did they do with the cargo door and frame they removed?

Part of me is disappointed they removed it because it is so unique, but I understand why they did it as only nerds like us would find it interesting.

[Pat Carry]

Nice update Scott, thanks

[bomberfan]

My only question is: What did they do with the cargo door and frame they removed?

Part of me is disappointed they removed it because it is so unique, but I understand why they did it as only nerds like us would find it interesting.

A few years ago, I spoke with Mike Kellner about this. Apparently, the door was installed without any technical drawings being done. To get the aircraft certified to fly today, they'd have to have all of the engineering done and approved. This would cost a significant amount of money before any actual work was even accomplished. If I recall correctly, he still has the door.

[DryMartini]

We still have the door.

[Noha307]

We still have the door.

Any chance you could post a picture? Just for curiosity's sake.

[DryMartini]

Yeah. I'll snap one for ya.

-Bill