Restoring Museum Aircraft

Although the history of the aircraft only spans a relatively brief period when compared to the time that mankind has existed on our planet, the invention and development of this remarkable machine is one of the most significant factors in the unprecedented progress man has made in the twentieth century. It is therefore important that there should always be examples of a wide range of airplane types that will portray how improvements were conceived and then evolved throughout the years since man first took to the air. It is a debt that we owe to future generations; it is also a debt that has no shortage of volunteers willing to fulfill it.
Clearly there are enormous differences in technique between the work required to reproduce the tailplane of a wooden-framed scout plane built in the first World War and that necessary to rebuild the landing-gear of a carrier-based jet that flew in Korea. It would be impossible to cover restoration in all possible situations, but what the author has succeeded in, is to put into words and illustrations many of the restoration and preservation concepts which were formulated during his long career at the American National Air and Space Museum.
The author takes the reader step by step through the process of restoration from the initial decision to prepare for an exhibit - Does it fit the museum's aims? How will it be displayed? Will it fly? - and of course - Is it good value? Initial preparation before disassembly are noted and then the principal techniques in working with wood-and-fabric and metal aircraft are discussed, using many interesting real examples. Types of propulsion, tires, colors and markings are covered systematically and the different requirements for indoor or outdoor exhibition are considered.

This book has become the authoritative reference to the wide and complex subject of aircraft preservation and restoration.

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by Robert Mikesh
Published by Airlife 1997 1st edition. 218pp profusely illustrated in colour and b&w, drawings, index, appendix. 22x31 indentation to rear boards otherwise mint, in price clipped and slightly worn d/j, not torn.






Note:
"Long" descriptions, where shown, may have been taken from the book's dust jacket notes, and as such are relevant to the date of publication (e.g. any references to "new edition" "previously unpublished photographs" etc.) and not the present.