Naval Aircraft Factory N3N-3
Bureau # 2996 (N12063)
Bureau # 4501
Walt has two Naval Aircraft Factory N3N-3s. One, Bureau # 4501 is under restoration. The other, Bureau # 2996 (N12063) is an airworthy aircraft currently mounted on the original centerline float. With this arrangement, an outrigger float is located on each wing near the tip. Currently Bu2996 is in a museum. This fall it will have it's land gear reinstalled, be dusted off and be returned to active flying status.
Bureau # 4501
Pictured here, the fuselage is upside while work on the belly is being done.
Here you can see the work required to fashion a new part. Since this type of aircraft is long out of production, when a replacement part is unavailable, a new one must be made. At the bottom of the picture is the old unserviceable part. In the middle is a former block upon which a new piece must be shaped. At the top, a newly made replacement part.
Bureau # 2996 (N12063)
Here the aircraft can be seen on it's land dolly
A view of the N3N-3 as it currently sits. The outrigger floats are clearly visible
A view of both the front and rear cockpits
The power plant - a Wright R-760-8
Under the tail, looking forward
Rear cockpit
Front cockpit including a good view of the fuel tank
Front cockpit
The right side - the black rectangle is a foot step for cockpit entry
First start in six years - October 2007
Walt - ready to Fly
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