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Used Aircraft and the Art of Refurbishing: Part II

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article details two extensive, "better than new" restorations of classic aircraft: a 1947 Stinson 108-3 and a 1957 Piper PA-22 Tri-Pacer.
  • Both projects involved significant investment, comprehensive overhauls, and numerous upgrades, including more powerful engines, modern avionics, luxurious interiors, and custom paint schemes.
  • These meticulous restorations resulted in enhanced performance, award-winning aesthetics, and immense owner satisfaction, transforming the vintage planes into unique and highly capable aircraft.
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Better than New
Stinson 108-3

__One of the nicest examples of a custom restored Stinson you’ll find anywhere occupies a row hangar at Sussex Airport (KFWN) in northern New Jersey. Here, a 1947 Model 108-3 “Flying Station Wagon” (so called because of its Woody-style wood-paneled interior and reinforced floor) proudly displays its window sticker signifying the airplane’s status as “Outstanding Stinson” at Oshkosh last summer. The immaculately refurbished taildragger has been drawing admiring crowds wherever it goes ever since.

FLYING Staff

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