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Restoration Nation: The Stearman Next Door

A lovable WWII-era biplane can be a worthy but expensive project.

With between 8,000 and 10,000 built, many Stearmans are still flying today. [iStock]
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Key Takeaways:

  • The author discovers a long-dormant Boeing Stearman PT-17 in a neighboring hangar, sparking a desire to see the classic aircraft brought back to life.
  • Experts advise against purchasing and restoring the Stearman due to the significant and costly effort required, with new covering alone estimated at $60,000-$80,000 on top of the $70,000 asking price.
  • The Stearman Model 75 (PT-17) is celebrated for its historical significance as a robust and forgiving World War II military trainer, its plentiful numbers, and enjoyable flight characteristics.
  • Despite the practical warnings and high restoration costs, the author feels a strong personal connection to the Stearman and is tempted by the prospect of reviving the classic aircraft.
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When I moved my airplane into its new hangar at Sussex Airport (KFWN) in New Jersey late last year, I gazed at the rows of adjoining units and wondered what types of rare and interesting machinery lay behind the dozens of bifold doors.

A few weeks later, I found that a distinguished neighbor resided next door. A contractor had opened the hangar door to adjust the cables, pulleys, and motor that control its movement. The shape of the aircraft parked inside left no doubt regarding its identity. It was a Boeing Stearman Model 75, also known by its military name, the PT-17.

Jonathan Welsh

Jonathan Welsh is Lead Editor of Aviation Consumer and a private pilot who worked as a reporter, editor and columnist with the Wall Street Journal for 21 years, mostly covering the auto industry. His passion for aviation began in childhood with balsa-wood gliders his aunt would buy for him at the corner store. Follow Jonathan on Twitter @JonathanWelsh4

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