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WTK WWII L-4 Piper "Grasshopper" project identification

Sun Apr 22, 2018 11:59 am

Was not expecting for this to end up in my hands. I just purchased what I believe to be a WWII L-4 Piper "Grasshopper" fuselage with other parts and some additional parts that I do not believe go with the original aircraft. Since Piper stuff is not currently my expertise, I am looking for feedback. Starting with the fuselage section, is it a WWII L-4 (J-3)...and then work your way around the photos. There are two 1946 Piper PA-12 registered rudders (not matching the other painted items) with registration numbers NC92564 and NC92581. Will they work on the L-4? There are three other motor mounts that do not look like L-4.
Fire away!
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Re: WTK WWII L-4 Piper "Grasshopper" project identification

Sun Apr 22, 2018 7:22 pm

Van,

I believe that is more likely a (partial) Piper PA-11 fuselage. Main indicators for me are the "X" bracing between the upper longerons (aft of the engine mount) and the rear seat bottom as a perforated metal sheet.

Additionally I think I see:
2 Piper stabilizers (one uncovered)
1 Aeronca satbilizer
1 crushed Piper elevator
2 Piper vertical fins and accompanying round back rudders (PA-12 or PA-18)
2 Piper struts (one bent) probably of the unsealed variety
1 Continental A/C series oil tank

I'm glad you're excited. Hope you didn't pay too much... :drink3:

C2j

Re: WTK WWII L-4 Piper "Grasshopper" project identification

Sun Apr 22, 2018 8:08 pm

Thank you.
Keep the comments coming!
No...I did not pay very much for the pile of parts actually.

Re: WTK WWII L-4 Piper "Grasshopper" project identification

Mon Apr 23, 2018 1:31 am

Join or visit your local EAA chapter. Many members aren't homebuilders, rather they restore and fly general aviation classics.
It it's anything like the group where I live, someone will be able to ID the parts and give an assessment of them.

The local chapter has a burger night every Saturday at the field, they get together to discuss projects like yours.
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