Classic Wheels and Vintage Wings

1913 Cadillac Model 30 Touring - Now Offered For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Wed, 16 May 2012 17:57:00 +0000

40/50 bhp, 365.8 cu. in. L-head vertical inline four-cylinder engine, three-speed selective sliding gear manual transmission, solid front axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, full-floating rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and rear-wheel mechanical brakes. Wheelbase: 120″

A Beautiful and Highly Drivable Brass Era Touring Car

Cadillac was first to market with the self-starter with the debut of the Model 30 in 1912, which replaced the clumsy, difficult, and sometimes dangerous, crank-starter. Cadillac was also the first to replace the old combustible-gas lighting system with full-electric lighting (headlights, cowl lights, and taillights). Charles Kettering's revlutionary Delco electrical system made it all possible.
Rightly, as a result of its advanced engineering, Cadillac advertised itself as the "Standard of the World", beginning in 1912.
The Model 30 was Cadillac's sole product line from 1912 to 1919, so-named for its initial 30 hp engine-output rating. Actual output 40/50 hp.
The Model 30 was known for its strong performance - capable of cruising at 45 mph, which was remarkable in its era, with few, if any, paved roads in existence.
When new, the Model 30 was a highly attractive choice for female drivers and now, as then, the Model 30 is a great choice for fans of "Brass Era" cars who want to drive and tour, as well as show, their automobile.
While the Cadillac Model 30 is classified as a "Brass Era" car, its brightwork is in fact nickel, and therefore much easier to maintain in show quality with less effort required.
Remarkable power and touring capabilities; generous but not excessive 120-inch wheelbase, roomy accommodations for up to five.

This Example

Fully restored mid-to-late 2000s
Best in Class and Best of Show, New England Region Cadillac LaSalle Club show, Portsmouth, Rhode Island 2008.
Shown at Amelia Island 2009, Greenfield Village September 2011
Prior owners are noted and active classic-car collectors
Acquired 2009 by present owner, with a further $20,000 to make it even better to show and tour with. Recent work included a new water-pump shaft and refinishing of the hood.
During 2011, the Cadillac participated in a Horseless Carriage Club tour, covering approximately 300 miles without fault. The tour included a visit to Bowmanville, Ontario's Mosport racing circuit and the club members in attendance were given the opportunity to drive their classics on the track for 2 laps. This Model 30 set "fastest lap" of the group!

Features include a very nice blue finish with black fenders and a black radiator shell, a beautifully fitted black folding top, nickel-plated brass components, rear-mounted spare tires and artillery wheels with whitewall tires, as well as button-tufted black leather upholstery. The engine, with its copper water jackets, is particularly striking. Offered in show- and tour-ready condition alike, this 1913 Model 30 Touring is simply a wonderful example of Cadillac's highly refined Brass Era luxury and engineering.

Ready to show, tour and enjoy!

On display at Hershey Lodge, October 2011

Classic Cars We Are Seeking

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 20:19:00 +0000

Our private and highly qualified clients are now seeking the following highly desirable classic cars. Feel free to leave a comment with your contact information so that we can discuss your vehicle in greater detail.

Please note, all candidates must have known or excellent provenance. Here is a current list of the vehicles we are currently seeking:

1962-1964 Ferrari 250 GT/L Berlinetta Lusso

1962-1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster - MUST be factory-equipped with alloy engine and disc brakes

1937-1939 Lancia Astura - preferably a Series IV Pinin Farina Cabriolet

This is a serious search for these wonderful classic automobiles and I thank you in advance. I look forward to talking with you soon!

Follow Us on Pinterest!

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 17:54:00 +0000

If you see a small red icon at the lower right of this website that says "Follow Me On Pinterest", click on it when you get a chance and once there, you can see the photos and other images I've shared on my boards there. Pinterest is a fast-growing social-sharing site with some 12 million users now and it is exploding in popularity. Request an invitation and share your photos and images with me!

My boards show many items of interest to me, including items I am currently marketing for sale. Some show products and books I love. Some include small business and marketing sites that I've learned a lot from.

Anyway, it's a continuously evolving work in progress and I hope you will share the ride and follow me there!

Stellar Single-Owner Collection of Vintage Open-Wheel Racecars Available!

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 21:38:00 +0000

We are excited to announce the offering for sale of a stellar collection of five (5) vintage open-wheel racing cars from a single vintage racer:
- 1960 Ryetune Scorpion Formula Junior (DKW powered)

- 1955 Cooper Mk 9 500 cc

- 1961 Cooper T56

- 1957 Cooper T43 (currently refinished in red)

- 1957 Cooper T41 - Currently undergoing restoration - no photos currently available.

To discuss the offering of this stellar single-owner collection of useable and hisitoric vintage open-wheel racecars, drop us a line by commenting on the post below.

Bronze Sculpture by Jean-Michel Folon...And Now For Something Completely Different!

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:54:00 +0000

When I started my online odyssey in late-2009 with an aviation enthusiast's website/blog, I could not have foreseen the wonderful items I've been able to help market on behalf of their owners.

The wonderful bronze sculpture offered here is a perfect case in point - 'La Fontaine aux Oiseaux' (The Bird Fountain), by the late Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon, who passed away at age 71 in 2005.

The item offered is 1 of the 2 made, and the mold was destroyed after they were created. What's particularly interesting about this bronze is that you've likely seen the the sister bronze 'La Fontaine aux Oiseaux' many times, as it stood for many years in the Place du Casino in Monte Carlo, facing the Grand Casino and right across from the Hotel du Paris and Cafe du Paris from 1994 until 2007, when Prince Albert had it installed at the Place de la Visitation, nearer the palace.

The 'La Fontaine aux Oiseaux' that is now available was purchased in 2003 by a friend of the current owner directly from the artist Jean-Michel Folon, after being introduced to him the same year. Since then, the sculpture has been stored, still in the crate, and warehoused since he bought it. A selection of photographs follow, showing this whimsical and wonderful bronze sculpture after its partial removal from its wooden crate.

Specifications of 'La Fontaine aux Oiseaux' (The Bird Fountain):

Material: Bronze
Dimensions:
Statue Height: 80 inches (6' 8")
Base Height: 10 inches
Base Width: 82 inches (6' 10 ")
Arm extension with the bird: 36 inches (3 feet, the extended arm with bird reaches to near the edge of the base.
1 of 2 cast
Cast has been destroyed

There were three additional bronzes by Mr. Folon called 'La Fontaine aux Oiseaux' as well, but they are a different configuration. All, needless to say, are beautiful, fully-functioning water fountains.

The sculpture on offer is the only one in private hands today.

There is a museum dedicated to Folon, the Fondation Folon located in the Domaine Solvay park at La Hulpe, Belgium in the Ferme du Château de la Hulpe, where more than three hundred of his works are exhibited (watercolors, paintings, sculptures, engravings, objects, posters and illustrations).

Biography of the Artist:

Jean-Michel Folon’s connection with the New York City Art and Cultural community, with whom he experienced his first international success, began circa 1960 with the artist’s work beginning to enjoy major public exposure when he sent drawings to various magazines including Horizon, Esquire and The New Yorker, which published them without having yet met Mr. Folon. By 1967, Fortune and Atlantic Monthly continue to publish his drawings in the United States, and Time publishes 4 covers over subsequent years.

Mr. Folon’s prolific career included book illustrations for Ray Bradbury and Franz Kafka, as well as decades of successful exhibitions in Belgium, France, Italy, Japan, Monaco, the USA and elsewhere. Mr. Folon’s artistry evolves throughout his remaining years, including paintings and sculptures utilizing a variety of materials.

Mr. Folon was a noted champion of world peace, the environment, child welfare, and other social causes. For Amnesty International in 1988, he illustrated the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, published in the 6 official UN languages, prefaced by Javier Pérez de Cuéllar. In 2003, he was appointed a Unicef ambassador, and the President of the French Republic decorated him with the Order of the Légion of Honor at the Elysée Palace.

Mr. Folon passed away in 2005 at age 71. His strong connections and success in America, particularly the 1960s in New York, where he first gained international prominence, as well as his unwavering commitment to social causes, ensure that the wonderful legacy of Mr. Folon and his connection to the New York and American art scenes remain most significant today, and his message and artworks will certainly remain meaningful and relevant, inspiring our future generations by his exemplary creativity and kindness to all humankind.

Serious interested parties only are invited to contact me regarding this wonderful offering privately via email at davidneyens1@gmail.com.

1959 Ford Galaxie Sunliner For Sale in Toronto at No Reserve

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:56:00 +0000

While the Fairlane 500 was Ford's top-level series when the company's new-for-1959 models were publicly introduced in late 1958, the Galaxie superceded it shortly thereafter. Offered with a choice of six-cylinder and V-8 power and in four-door, two-door, two-door Victoria hardtop coupe, Skyliner retractable and Sunliner Convertible form, the Galaxie was Ford's most popular model line for 1959 and featured interesting one-year-only styling and massive overall proportions that continue to fascinate all onlookers today.

A brand-new and we-fitted convertible is a new feature to this nice Galaxie.

Offered at the 2012 Toronto Spring Classic Car Auction at No Reserve, this early-produciton ’59 Ford Galaxie Sunliner Convertible is a nice and enjoyable driver-quality example with a recent repaint that was completed under the late prior owner. According to VIN decoding, this Galaxie is confirmed to have been factory-equipped when new with its powerful 300 hp, “Thunderbird 352 Special" V-8 engine, equipped with a factory-correct Holley four-barrel carburetor. Other desirable original features inclued a Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission and a highway-friendly 2.69:1 rear-axle ratio.

Other features include power steering, dual spotlights with side-view mirrors, a radio, and a clock. Mechanical upgrades for enhanced reliability while cruising include a re-cored radiator (2010), an auxiliary electric cooling fan, and an electric auxiliary fuel pump. A brand-new and well-fitted convertible top was installed in February 2012.

The interior features period correct "tri-tone" upholstery that remains tidy and very presentable.

From this rear 3/4-view, the Galaxie's remarkably long rear deck is highlighted. Period accents include bright rear-fender skirts, a "Continental" spare-tire kit, and the dual exhaust outlets, which provide a nice throaty exhaust note from the 352 V-8.

The engine bay, while not detailed, is honestly and correctly presented in driver quality, with the correct chrome-plated air cleaner, Ford-scripted valve covers, and bag-type windshield-washer fluid reservoir.

Currently road-licenced, this nice ’59 Galaxie Sunliner Convertible is well maintained and starts, drives and runs very well. It will be offered for sale soon in mid-April at the Toronto Spring Classic Car Auction presented by Dan Spendick’s Collector Car Productions. Please visit www.ccpauctions.com for further event information, and comment below this post to ask questions about the car.

1947 Chevrolet Thriftmaster 3100 Pickup For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:44:00 +0000

A handsome example of North America’s first all-new postwar pickup truck design, this 1947 Chevrolet Thriftmaster 3100 ½-ton pickup was completely restored by a father-and-son team to factory-original specifications and completed in 2005.

During the restoration, handsomely finished Cherry cargo-bed strips sourced from the owner's woodlot were installed, and only the two small panels bridging the cargo bed and the running boards were replaced. Of particular note, the running boards are the truck's original steel units, unlike those on the majority of other restored examples. The rest of the truck is 100% factory-original steel.

Currently licensed and running very well, this attractive and enjoyable classic pickup is also a consistent award winner at local shows and it will make a usable and easy-to maintain and operate classic for its next lucky owner.

Interesting extras include an original 1947 Chevrolet Truck Operator's Manual and several restoration and parts manuals. Please check out the photos below and contact us for further details or look for it on the Collector Car Productions website at www.ccpauctions.com. The sale takes place April 13 -15 at Mississauga, Ontario's International Centre.

Toronto Spring Classic Car Auction - Time to Consign!

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:46:00 +0000

A stellar final-year 1965 Porsche 356 C Coupe was one of the Fall 2011 auction's best sellers with a fabulous onsite presentation by the seller and incredible documentation. When the hammer fell after an exciting round of bidding, it sold for a strong $74,250. It is one of the last Porsche 356s ever built (120 from the last), having left Karmann's factory in December 1964. This strong result is proof positive of the unbeatable power of this car's combination of "final year" cachet, rarity, excellent documentation, excellent condition, and fastidious preparation for the sale. Strong marketing in the full-colour sale brochure, auction company website and pre-sale promotion are other great auction benefits.

For Canadian classic-car enthusiasts and our friends from the northern United States, Collector Car Productions' annual Toronto Spring Classic Car Auction is a huge three-day draw for buyers, sellers and onlookers alike. Set for April 13 - 15 at Mississauga, Ontario's International Centre, the Spring Auction is set to build on the great results of the Fall Auction of October 2011, with exceptional cars to be sold by event founder Dan Spendick and his crew.

We are taking consignments now for April and good slots are filling fast. For full information on the event and for advice on consigning your classic car to the auction, contact me and I will be glad to help you out, as always.

I hope to talk to you soon and we're looking forward to another great event, one that consistently delivers on its promise to help you market your classic, sports, racing, exotic, or luxury car in the best possible manner. If you would like to discuss this fantastic opportunity to market your car, post a comment below.

In the meantime, enjoy the selection of photos of some of the cars offered at the fall Auction this past October.

WW II Rolls-Royce Merlin V-12 Engine For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 20:43:00 +0000

: Left-hand view of the Merlin in its wooden cradle, including view of supercharger.

To most historic airplane and military history buffs, the Rolls-Royce Merlin requires no introduction and it remains one of the most successful, best-performing, and historically significant powerplants of all time. The power source of the best-performing and highest-scoring aircraft in the Royal Air Force arsenal, the Merlin adapted itself exceedingly well to a number of types including the Hawker Hurricane, the Supermarine Spitfire, and the highly effective, multi-role De Havilland Mosquito. Later versions also powered the Avro Lancaster, the best RAF heavy bomber of the war. Early Merlins also powered some less-successful RAF types of the early war years, including the Fairey Battle light bomber that was savaged by the Luftwaffe at the Battle of sedan in France and the Boulton Paul Defiant, the turret-only figthter that became Messerschmitt fodder after a brief streak of success in 1940. The Merlin was license-built by Packard during WW II and when the engine replaced the Allison V-1710 V-12 in the P-51 Mustang airframe, the US Army Air Corps finally had the high-performance, long-range fighter aircraft it desperately needed to escort the B-17 and B-24 heavy bombers it operated from England.

With Canadian factories safe from Axis attack during the war, large numbers of military aircraft were produced in Canada, including the Merlin-powered Hawker Hurricane, which was built at Canadian Car and Foundry in Fort Erie, Ontario and used across Canada for advanced training and home defense, particularly along Canada's vast and rugged coastlines. Merlin-powered Fairey Batlles were also a mainstay in wartime Canada under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP) and mainly employed training bombardiers, air gunners, pilots, and target towing.

This recently discovered Merlin is a fairly early Merlin III with a single-stage supercharger, according to representatives of the Canadian Air and Space Museum. An important evolution of the Merlin, the III or Mk III as it is alternately known, was capable of operating on either 87- or 100- octane aviation fuel and was rated at either 1,030 hp or 1,310 hp. It is understood that the engine likely originated from a Hurricane. It was found in a long-forgotten automotive shop and 18 years had passed since the owner died before the building was acquired by the current owner for redevelopment. The engine appears to be quite complete and remains equipped with the supercharger, nose case, propeller shaft, and ancillary systems.

: Front view showing nose case and propeller shaft.

: Right side view - showing completeness of the Merlin.

: View of firing order and Rolls-Royce patent plates.

: Image of single-stage supercharger and ancillary systems.

The Merlin is to be sold by sealed bid very soon on Friday February 3 2011. Let us know if you have interest and we can discuss bidding arrangements and terms and act on your behalf as bidder's agent in the Merlin's sale.

1959 Bocar XP-5 Sports Racing Prototype

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 01:59:00 +0000

Following such illustrious American sports-racing cars as those produced by Briggs Cunningham during the early 1950s and predating Carroll Shelby’s British-American Cobra hybrids of the 1960s, Denver, Colorado’s Bob Carnes produced his Bocar sports car line. With background including a Glockler-Porsche and a Cadillac-powered Jaguar, Carnes started with the X-1 in his garage in 1958, and development quickly accelerated through several X-2 and X-3 models, followed by about five XP-4s. These early models carried a 90-inch wheelbase and used Jaguar wire-spoke wheels and Girling drum brakes.

An improved XP-5 prototype, the car offered here, was readied in 1959. Four or five more "production" examples followed after mid-1959.

Period ads announced "Fierce acceleration -- docile obedience”, as well as capability for "racing, hillclimber and grocery getter."

Based upon a tubular chassis and topped by a sleek fiberglass body, the Bocar XP-5 was powered by either a 283 cu. in. Chevrolet Corvette V-8 or a 370 cu. in. Pontiac V-8 engine. Predictably, these lightweight (fewer than 2,000 lbs) terrors provided shattering performance.

The rakish Bocar stood only 34 inches tall, with a competition-style four-inch windshield. A variety of options were available, including a hardtop, a heater, a radio, and seven suspension setups, plus choices in wheels and tires. Carburetion or fuel injection could be specified for the Corvette or Pontiac engine.

Although prices for finished cars were advertised as low as $3,800, the typical cost was about $8,700. Carnes also sold bodies and frames separately. Priced within the range of ordinary people who wanted a highly competitive racing entry or a fearsome streetcar, the Bocar was anything but ordinary looking.

A number of Bocars were competitively raced in period, primarily in SCCA events, with such drivers as Augie Pabst, Harry Heuer, A.L. Huttinger and Paul O’Shea. A Bocar competed in the first televised Daytona race in June 1960, where it placed 3rd overall and took first in class. Another Bocar won an SCCA race at Daytona later in the year. A Bocar won an SCCA race on the same track in March 1960, following that by setting a speed record of 175 mph on the beach of Daytona. Repeat, 175 mph in 1960! During its brief racing career, the XP-5 also took many podium finishes all the way from Daytona to Watkins Glen to the Nassau Speed Week. The Stiletto competition roadster was the final Bocar product.

While unknown to many sports car and racing enthusiasts today, the Bocar developed a fearsome reputation in the late 1950s and early 1960s. In its retrospective entitled "Best, Fastest and Most Outrageous: The 50 Most Memorable Cars Ever", Motor Trend editors wrote, "The Bocar XP-5 was a race car built for the street, which featured a tube chassis and a Corvette 283 engine. Len Griffing drove the Bob Carnes' designed and built Bocar on Riverside Raceway. In his June '59 report, Griffing said, "The initial laps were in the 100-mph range. Once in the turns, the throttle does the steering. On the long straight, it tracks like an arrow and the engine seems to rev without limit. 150 mph came up right now.” MT testers clocked the 290 hp, 283 Chevy-powered XP-5, covering the zero-to-60 dash in 6.0 seconds flat, en route to a 14.0-second quarter-mile time, with a trap speed of 100 mph.

This and other road tests confirmed the Bocar's performance, including acceleration times that would qualify for near-supercar ranking even today. A high power-to-weight ratio was a big part of the secret: roughly six pounds per horsepower, in a car that weighed just 1,650 pounds. Motor Trend described its XP-5 as "a 160-mph sportscar" that was nevertheless "a road machine." “At 100 mph, mashing the throttle was neck-snapping."

Looking very much like a contemporary Maserati 200 SI, this Bocar XP-5 goes like a rocket sled and represents tremendous value. Chassis 001, the Bocar XP-5 prototype, has just been restored and all mechanicals are fresh, including a 450 bhp, 383 cu. in. Chevrolet V8 with side-draft Weber carburetors.

The Chevrolet V-8 engine is drastically set-back within the chassis, contributing to the exceptionally balanced handling and responsiveness of the XP-5.

450 bhp, 383 cu. in. Chevrolet V-8 engine, with four side-draft, dual-choke Weber carburetors.

According to the current owner, this car is an absolute blast to drive and in fact, it can be steered using just the throttle around corners. Great for the track at a multitude of vintage racing events or as a raucous and enjoyable high-performance street or tour car, this dual-purpose Bocar XP-5 001 is also very streetable, as its creator originally intended.

Bocar XP-5 001 is accompanied by an unbroken provenance from new. Full details, including current specifications and car-specific history are available to qualified prospective purchasers upon request. Feel free to leave a comment below this post for a reply.

Red-trimmed racing buckets and driveshaft tunnel, quick-release Simpson racing harnesses, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and full instrumentation round out the businesslike, yet inviting and comfortable cockpit.

From the rear, the simplicity of the XP-5 design is clearly demonstrated with the racing-style faired headrest, quick-release fuel filler-cap, dual large-diameter exhaust outlets and twin tail lamps. The businesslike cockpit is also in view. The track and the open road beckon!

The Ex-Col. J.B. Maclean 1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Limousine

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:21:00 +0000

1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Hooper Limousine 98 EF, just after it emerged from its resting place inside the owner's garage, where it has remained for nearly one full year. After some adjustments, the old Rolls fired right up and settled into a comfortable and characteristically quiet idle.

It never ceases to amaze me when I stop to consider all the wonderful classic cars in the world and their fascinating stories. This 1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom I carries a particularly rich history, in addition to the fact that it is a Derby, UK-built Phantom I and an undisputed automotive landmark as the successor model to the iconic 40/50 HP Silver Ghost.

While cloaked in its relatively mundane (a colleague's assessment and not mine) but original Formal Limousine coachwork by Hooper, this Phantom I is significant in Canada by virtue of its original owner, Lt. Col. John B. Maclean, the founder of the Maclean-Hunter publishing empire and one of Toronto's most legendary business figures of the first half of the 20th Century. The car's decidedly non-flamboyant coachwork appropriately mirrored Col. Maclean, who began his publishing business with a farmers' publication in the late-19th Century.

The Phantom was a faithful servant to Col. Maclean and his wife and frequently used for trips to his rural properties in Crieff in Puslinch Township, Ontario near the city of Guelph and every spring and fall, it transported Mrs. Maclean to the couple's winter home in Florida. In fact, the car's rear passenger compartment retains the substantial brass stanchion that was used to secure the wheelchair of Mrs. Maclean.

An interesting story related by the current owner sheds light on the surprisingly prodigious performance of the Phantom I. On one occasion, Mrs. Maclean's chauffeur was reportedly stopped by police in Georgia for speeding. According to the story, the car was travelling at nearly 100 mph!

The car was acquired from the estate of Colonel Maclean, who had passed away in 1950 (just one day shy of his 88th birthday) by the next owner, who sold it to the current owner in 1955. The car's subsequent history is more remarkable under the current owner, who used the Phantom I for many years as a wedding car for hire, as a fun weekend side business for him. He would always dress in period chauffeur's uniform, as evidenced by the image on the front of his business card. He and his wife toured the car enthusiastically and extensively and on one trip, they even drove the Phantom from London, Ontario to New York City in order to purchase a proper replacement Waltham "8-Day" clock for the car!

When I visited the owner this past August, he drove 98 EF out of its resting place in his garage for the first time in a year. The car was kept on a trickle charger and it fired right up with just a few deft adjustments to the steering-wheel spark and mixture controls by the owner. It has only had one repaint (not terribly high quality, with lots of flaws) over the years and the interior was re-trimmed in gray broadcloth about 33 years ago (admittedly a bit tatty now), and some minor engine work was performed a few years ago. Nonetheless, its sound operating condition and story are quite remarkable, not to mention its use in a street scene in the 2002 hit musical movie Chicago! and an episode of TV's Anne of Green Gables.

Sadly, the beautiful former Toronto residence of the Macleans was demolished a few years ago and the land was redeveloped, leaving this fascinating Rolls-Royce Phantom I as one of the few physical artifacts of its famous first owner. Simply put, 98 EF remains a wonderfully tangible and drivable link to the founder of one of Canada's media dynasties, seeking only a new caretaker.

I Need Your Help

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:08:00 +0000

Hello to all my subscribers and friends! I'm trying to reach a wider audience with my blog/website. This one is my first attempt at creating and developing a media platform, and I would appreciate your input.

Would you kindly complete the very brief survey (link posted below) and consider commenting below this post to let me know what you would like to see more and less of.

Also, let me know if you or anyone you know would like to enjoy similar content in e-reader (Kindle, Kobo, etc.) form, or as a monthly or quartery e-book. Would you like to get this content in print or .pdf form?

Your answers and input are greatly appreciated and will help me to create content that you will enjoy and will want to receive from me.

Also, if you have friends, family or colleagues who will appreciate this blog/website and its content, please forward the link to them or tell everyone you know about it. This is a work in progress.

Best regards and thanks in advance,

David (Dave) Neyens
Editor/Publisher

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MR25ZNQ

Create your free'>http://www.surveymonkey.com/">free online surveys with SurveyMonkey, the world's leading questionnaire tool.

Ex-Frank Williams Racing Brabham BT21 Formula 3 Single-Seater For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:35:00 +0000

To even the most casual of today's racing fans, Formula 1 World Champion constructor Frank (Sir Frank) Williams requires no introduction. This 1967 Brabham BT21 is one of his early racing cars, campaigned during 1967-1968 during the early era when his roster of drivers included Piers Courage and Jonathan Williams.

From introduction, Brabham's BT18-derived BT21 Formula 3 and B car was a success, winning its first race at Brands Hatch in the hands of Derek Bell in 1966. Its early competitive career continued through the late-1960s/early 1970s and the model was an early mount of eventual and highly colorful 1976 Formula 1 World Champion James Hunt.

This very special machine is Chassis 36, well known to Brabham enthusiasts as one of the 50 BT21s produced. It was originally delivered to Frank Williams Racing and campaigned circa 1967-1968 during the Piers Courage/Jonathan Williams era in European Formula 3. Next, it was sold to Canada and airfreighted via Air Canada to the new owner on September 18, 1969, going on to become the Canadian Formula B Championship winner. I am currently trying to confirm the name of its Championship-winning driver with certainty and while I have a pretty good idea of the man's identity, I will appreciate any reader who can confirm this with me or place me in contact with him.

During the early 2000s, Chassis 36 received an exhaustive chassis-up restoration and a complete engine rebuild by noted classic racing specialist Tony Garmey in Washington State, USA. It is currently located in New Zealand and powered by an 1,800 cc Lotus Twin-Cam with over 200 hp on tap.

While the 1,800 is larger than the original 1,600 cc MAE, the car is described by the current owner as a "screamer" that is highly competitive in vintage racing and capable of producing quicker lap times than some more powerful competitors. The BT21 is one of the most desirable and usable Formula cars from the tube-frame, non-wing era of the mid-to-late 1960s. As offered, Chassis 36 features period FWR livery and is ready to race, highly competitive and a great link to the early years of the eventual Formula 1 World Champion manufacturer, Sir Frank Williams.

Nice period image of eventual F1 World Champion driver James Hunt (at the wheel of a different BT-21) giving chase to a Lotus during his early racing career at Brands Hatch.

Timeless Elegance - 1952 Jaguar XK120 Fixed-Head Coupe (FHC) For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 22:43:00 +0000

Ahh, finally! Wheels and wings in one place after my format change for this enthusiast site! I'll have to get more on those great biplanes in the background to share with you soon. Anyway, the car is the star of this particular post - and a particularly beautiful sporting machine it is. This Jaguar XK120 Fixed-Head Coupe (FHC) is an award-winning example of Jaguar's landmark postwar sports-car design, which begat the Le Mans 24 hours-winning C-Type sports racer, the XK140 and the XK150, cars that remain immensely drivable, enjoyable and thrilling today.

The car that quickly became the XK120 was originally built simply as a display car to showcase the XK dual-overhead cam inline six-cylinder engine, which initially delivered 160 bhp and remains historic for being the world's first high-volume twin-cam automobile engine. With a stout seven-main-bearing cylinder block, an aluminum dual-overhead camshaft cylinder head with hemispherical combustion chambers, the XK 'six' provided plenty of scope for further development. The engine's intended chassis, the Mark VII saloon (sedan) was not ready yet, however, so a rakish two-seat roadster, derived from the "100" experimental coupe of 1938, was designed as an interim measure, with design input directly from Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons. However, public fervor at the car's sensational debut at London's Earls Court Motor Show in the fall of 1948 forced Jaguar to prepare the XK120 for series production.

So named for its 120-plus mph top speed, the XK120 delivered on its promise and then some, with Jaguar test driver Ron Sutton clicking off a 132-plus mph blast in an early aluminum-bodied XK120 Roadster on the lightly travelled Jabbeke Highway in Belgium. The only modification was the removal of the car's windscreen to improve aerodynamics. While highly stylish, relatively softly sprung and value-priced, the XK120's enduring reputation was earned in the heat of competition. In 1949, a trio of XK120s contested the British Racing Drivers Club meeting at Silverstone, finishing 1-2, with the third car retiring early due only to a blown tire. In the hands of soon-to-be legend Stirling Moss, the XK120 took the 1950 Tourist Trophy and Ian Appleyard won the Alpine Rally three years straight in 1950, 1951, and 1952.

Predictably, given Britain's postwar "export or die" directives, Jaguar had the fast-growing US market in mind for the XK120, and the model was one of eventual Grand Prix World Champion Phil Hill's earliest mounts. Hill earned the first Jaguar racing victory Stateside at Torrey Pines, and the XK120 was established as "the car to beat" on both sides of the Atlantic, whether on the racing circuit or on the showroom floor.

The Fixed-Head Coupe (FHC) joined the Roadster for 1951 and with its elegantly rounded roof line, added a clear dash of sophistication to match the stellar engineering and sportiness of the basic XK120 design. The car of choice for long-distance touring, the Fixed-Head or FHC added a luxuriously veneer-trimmed dash and roll-up side windows. Only 2,680 FHCs were produced through 1954, with just 152 for the UK Home market and the bulk, numbering 2,528, destined for export. All surviving examples continue to be highly coveted and appreciated today.

The restoration of this stellar example from 1952 was completed in the early 2000s after approximately 10 years, at a cost of some USD $140,000, with the majority of work performed by the noted Mike Wilson's Restorations of Visalia, California. It is an original US-delivery, left-had drive car that benefits from limited use, proper storage, and remains virtually show-worthy today.

The car is well restored and remains virtually perfect in condition as offered today. There are some spares with the vehicle including the original cylinder head (serial number matches) and the original fender skirts / "spats" for the rear wheels. Larger brakes were a factory option and are currently fitted to the car, with the originals also provided with the sale of the car. All restoration work is documented with invoices and receipts. Now in New Zealand, the car was registered and licensed in the USA, with the last registration current through 2004 when the car was registered in Nevada on personalized plates “52 JAG”, which also accompany the sale of the car.

For further information or to discuss this exceptional opportunity for Jaguar collectors and aficionados, kindly post a comment below the post. A further selection of photographs follows.

1966 Chevy Biscayne 427 Street/Strip Car For Sale

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 21:45:00 +0000

Based on a rust-free '66 Biscayne 2-door post coupe from California, this street and strip terror was built by a long-time acquaintance of mine who also owns a stunning '69 Corvette 427/435 coupe that he carefully restored to NCRS Top Flight perfection over many years. As such, this tough Biscayne carries a great vintage vibe and perfectly recalls similar full-sized Chevrolet Super Stock drag cars from the "Golden Age" of stock-bodied drag racing during the 1960s.

This highly maintained bruiser is only driven on Sundays and has never seen any foul weather since it was acquired and built up by the current owner, who brought it to Canada directly after sourcing the car in California. Don't let the clean and sedate appearance fool you - this car is a driveable, yet brutal performer and packs a massive big-block Chevy punch under the hood, where a 468 cubic inch V-8 (454 block, overbored 0.060-inch) lurks. Only a set of iconic "427 Turbo-Jet" crossed-flag emblems give away this car's secret and at that, one must look closely to see them at a stoplight.

The big-block Chevy "rat" motor is topped with a Brodix single-plane intake manifold and a Demon carburetor and an MSD electonic ignition lights the fire, while a set of Hooker headers handle the exhaust. The heavy-duty driveline consists of a close-ratio Muncie 4-speed manual transmission, a Center Force clutch, a D.T.S. rear end assembly with Positraction, and a pair of Moser axles. A set of Chevy rally-type steel wheels of the period complete the package.

The "plain Jane" but lightweight Biscayne interior is restored, clean, and factory-correct in appearance, lending a deceptive "sleeper" look and feel to the car. Remarkably, the rear seat and its upholstery are factory-original.

As expected, the Biscayne is a strong dual-purpose street/strip car, capable of knocking off 12-second quarter-mile timeslips with ease. Below, the mighty Biscayne is pictured on the starting line at St. Thomas Dragway in Sparta, Ontario, Canada.

A great example of the lightweight Biscayne coupe with all the right parts and very highly maintained and properly stored and cared for, this car is now available for a new owner to own and enjoy. For further information and pricing, please post a comment below this post.

Group of Historic 1950s and Early-1960s Coopers + 1 1960 Scorpion FJ FOR SALE

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 23:41:00 +0000

Here is something that is sure to excite vintage racing fans worldwide - the offering of a single group lot of 1950s/early-1960s single-seat racing cars. The 1960 Scorpion Formula Junior car and a 1961 Cooper T56 Formula Junior, a 1957 Cooper T41 Formula 2, and a 1957 Cooper T43 are offered as one single group lot and for the right price, a Cooper MK IX 500 cc Formula 3 car, perhaps the seminal early junior-level monoposto, is also available.

Here are more specifics on the cars:

1. 1960 Scorpion FJ, fully restored, DKW 1100cc 2-stroke, excellent history -1 of 9 built and 1 of the 6 built with DKW engine.

2. 1961 Cooper T56 FJ with 1100cc BMC engine, 5-speed Jack Knight gearbox, car previously owned by Ivan Glasby in NSW, Australia. 1 of 22 built.

3. 1957 Cooper T41 F2, 1500cc SOHC FWB Climax engine plus original FWA 1100 cc block, car currently under restoration and basically complete except for gearbox. 1 of the 4 examples built in 1957.

4. 1957 Cooper T43 1640cc DOHC FPF Climax engine, ERSA 4-speed gearbox. Car recently restored.
Note: The T43 was designed for both F1 and F2 racing for the 1957 racing season and debuted with a "works" entry at Monaco with Jack Brabham. Most notably, Stirling Moss (later Sir) drove a T43 for Rob Walker to victory at the 1958 Argentine Grand Prix, the first World Drivers' Championship race ever won using a rear-engined car. The T43 soldiered on until the 1960 Italian Grand Prix, and it was replaced by the T45.

5. Cooper Mk 9/IX F3, 500cc engine.

The cars are presently under single ownership and are correct and very well-maintained by a well-known vintage racer and a true enthusiast. Chassis numbers, pricing, and photographs will be made available upon request.

For Sale: 1959 Ford Galaxie Sunliner Convertible

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:24:00 +0000

This early-produciton ’59 Ford Galaxie Sunliner Convertible is a nice and enjoyable driver-quality example with a recent repaint that was completed under the late prior owner. According to VIN decoding, this Galaxie is confirmed to have been factory-equipped when new with its powerful 300 hp, “Thunderbird 352 Special" V-8 engine, equipped with a factory-correct Holley four-barrel carburetor. Other desirable original features inclued a Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission and a highway-friendly 2.69:1 rear-axle ratio.

The interior features period correct "tri-tone" upholstery that remains tidy and very presentable.

Currently road-licenced, this nice ’59 Galaxie Sunliner Convertible is well maintained and is reported by the current owner to drive and run very well. It will be offered for sale soon on Saturday October 22, 2011 at the Toronto Fall Classic Car Auction presented by Dan Spendick’s Collector Car Productions. Please visit www.ccpauctions.com for further event information, and comment below this post to ask questions about the car.

For Sale: 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass Pro-Touring Convertible

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 18:47:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Paul Sontrop

Based on a handsome second-generation Oldsmobile Cutlass, this restored and tastefully modified convertible from 1970 has been transformed into a striking and luxurious pro-touring muscle car. Shaved emblems and moldings enhance the clean lines of the laser-straight body, featuring a wet-sanded Chrysler 300 Cool Vanilla finish, topped with classic black 442-style hood and rear-deck stripes. New chrome, a top-quality Haartz cloth convertible top, a Pearl White top boot, 20-inch five-spoke KMC rims, and new rubber complete the exterior package.

Photo Credit: Paul Sontrop

The rebuilt “Rocket” 350 V-8 breathes through a new Flowmaster dual exhaust system and is mated to a rebuilt THM 350 automatic transmission. Hotchkis suspension components, including front and rear anti-sway bars and rear lower control arms provide superior handling, along with a new set of front and rear shocks. Braking is upgraded with new SSBC 2-piston front calipers.

The interior is trimmed in new Pearl White seat covers from Year One and equipped with front bucket seats, an Oldsmobile centre console, a solid wood-rimmed steering wheel, new white-faced Dolphin gauges, and a high-end custom JL Audio stereo system. Billet Specialties window cranks complete the interior details.

Photo Credit: Paul Sontrop

A complete and integrated package combining the best classic and modern features, this 1970 Cutlass pro-touring convertible has travelled only an approximate 5,100 miles since completion and benefits from excellent care. It shows and performs great with the right sound, the right stance, and captures attention wherever it goes. As the commercial used to say, “Oldsmobile…Escape from the Ordinary!”

Photo Credit: Paul Sontrop

This stellar pro-touring Cutlass and many other great automobiles will be offered for sale at this year's Toronto Fall Classic Car Auction, presented by Dan Spendick's Collector Car Productions. Sale dates are October 21-23, 2011 and for further event information, see http://www.ccpauctions.com/. For any inquiries on this Cutlass, please enter a comment below the post.

For Sale: "The Black Pearl" - Stunning 1940 LaSalle Kustom Convertible

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:18:00 +0000

Best known as “The Black Pearl”, this stunning 1940 LaSalle-based Kustom honors the Harry Westergard tradition with a modern twist. Jim Bailie of Windsor’s Metalshapers extensively reworked the original coupe body, with every body panel subtly customized in a traditional fashion. A deep black PPG exterior finish, Coker wide whitewall tires and steel wheels with ’54 Cadillac hubcaps complete the smooth and tasteful exterior.

Smooth and stunning in every respect, not one body panel of Lyle and Elaine Handsor's 1940 LaSalle Kustom Convertible, best known as "The Black Pearl", escaped the deft touch of Windsor, Ontario-based metal-shaping wizard Jim Bailie. Sharp rod and custom fans will immediately recognize Mr. Bailie for his incredible work on the "Nadean" '53 Buick custom of the early '90s. Makes you wish GM built it this way when new, right? Photo credit: Paul Sontrop

The chopped and hand-fabricated Carson-style top by Jim Bailie, enhances the basic Harley Earl/GM Art & Colour design of this final-year 1940 LaSalle, tastefully restyled in the tradition of Harry Westergard. Fit, finish, and detailing are clearly to show-quality standards and this Kustom ride is simply stunning throughout. Photo Credit: Paul Sontrop

The very luxurious ultra leather interior features 8-way power seats, a custom console, a wrap-around rear seat, and custom wooden inserts. Amenities include A/C, power windows, remote doors, a backup camera, and Dakota digital gauges.

The luxurious ultra leather interior features 8-way power seats, custom console, wrap-around rear seat, and custom wooden inserts. Amenities include A/C, power windows, remote doors, a backup camera, and Dakota digital gauges. Photo credit: Paul Sontrop

The completely updated drivetrain consists of a 300-hp, fuel injected Cadillac Northstar V-8 engine backed by a GM THM 700R4 four-speed overdrive automatic. Underpinnings include a Camaro front subframe and suspension with disc brakes, as well as a 3.73:1 GM rear axle.

Photo Credit: Jason Handsor

Once finished in 2007, the car was shown at the Detroit Autorama, the Goodguys Columbus Nationals, and at the Goodguys Rhinebeck, New York event, earning a Rod & Custom “Top Ten” pick and several other awards. It has also appeared in the Goodguys Gazette, Rod & Custom, Street Rodder, and the latest edition of Canadian Hot Rods. With only three national-level show appearances, the new owner will be able to continue to show the car and add to the awards earned by “The Black Pearl”.

This stunning, high-quality Kustom displays impeccable fit, finish, and workmanship throughout. It will be offered for sale at Collector Car Productions' upcoming Toronto Fall Classic Car Auction, which will be held on the weekend of Friday, October 21 - Sunday October 23, 2011 at the International Centre, Mississauga. "The Black Pearl" will be there on feature display, and is scheduled to cross the auction block on the afternoon of Saturday, October 22. Use the "Comment" feature below this post to add your comments and ask questions about this stunning vehicle.

To My Subscribers and Friends-Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:26:00 +0000

Props to my friend Dave Bengochea, the builder and owner of this neat little '32 Ford hot rod. Look him up at Daddyo's Hot Rods-he's an awesome guy and a true hot rodder.

Hello! It's been a while since I've published a new post, but I hope to make up for that with a big announcement-I have changed the name of this blog to "Classic Wheels and Vintage Wings", to broaden the appeal of this site and to reflect my dual and lifelong passions (some might say split personality, but anyway...) for vintage aircraft and classic automobiles. My travels have taken me to many locations in search of both, and I have been gathering lots of great content. I hope you'll enjoy the somewhat new direction and continue to join me as this multimedia journey unfolds.

As always, THANK YOU!

Please comment and let me know what you think.

Dave

Historic Wright Brothers Cheque Marks the Birth of Military Aviation

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 21:02:00 +0000

While others had indeed created and successfully flown various flying machines earlier, brothers Orville (1871-1948) and Wilbur (1867-1912) Wright created the first truly successful, heavier-than-air powered aircraft with the invention of their unique three-axis control system, which finally made controllable manned flight possible. En route to their breakthrough, the Wrights also pioneered wind-tunnel testing, propeller design and the development of light, yet powerful and reliable internal-combustion aero engines.

Almost immediately after their series of successful powered flights over the sands at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina on December 17, 1903, the Wrights set to work perfecting their invention with the goal of making it both practical and marketable. Hundreds of spectators and newspaper reporters were thrilled by the Wrights' aerial displays with their improved 1905 Flyer. Logically, the Wrights' first potential customer was the U.S. Army, which had long used observation balloons to monitor troop movements and to direct artillery fire and military formations. However, the response of the U.S. War Department to the Wrights' appraach was less than encouraging. Letters to the French and British governments were unsuccessful as well.

Governmental disinterest evaporated in 1907 when the Wrights found the support of the American Aero Club, which met directly with President Theodore Roosevelt and lobbied him to influence the War Department to purchase the Wright Flyer. Lieutenant Frank P. Lahm, a balloonist attached to the U.S. Army Signal Corps' Aeronautical Division, had met the Wrights in Dayton and correctly envisioned that the airplane would soon render military observation balloons obsolete. Lahm personally lobbied the War Department and while the Board of Ordnance and Fortification was receptive, it advised Lahm that its funds were limited to $10,000 unless a Congress approved more funding. In December that year, the Board met with Wilbur Wright, who impressively stated that he and Orville did not want to receive any government funds until they produced an aircraft that would successfully meet government requirements. The Board was so impressed with Wilbur's presentation that it decided to initiate a bidding process for an aircraft, using unused money that allocated for the Spanish-American War some nine years earlier.

In response to Specification No. 486 "Advertisement and Specification for a Heavier-Than-Air Flying Machine" issued on December 23, 1907 by the Aeronautical Section of the U.S. Army Signal Corps, the Wrights changed the name of their business from the Wright Cycle Co. to Wright Brothers. A new account was opened at the Winters National Bank in Dayton, Ohio, and a detailed two-page bid was prepared.

The requirements specified by the U.S. Army for the proposed aircraft were rather stiff for the era: a speed of at least 40 mph, and the aircraft was also expected to fly at least 125 miles and carry a 350-pound load, representing the weight of the pilot and one observer. In addition, the aircraft was required to allow for safe landing in the event of an engine failure. While the Wright Brothers' bid was reportedly anticipated to have been the only serious proposal, a total of 41 bids were submitted during the process.

Nonetheless, the Wrights were the only bidders capable of delivering an aircraft, let alone one capable of meeting the stated requirements. According to an insightful article by Jayme A. Sokolow, Ph.D. and R. Dennis Green in the Spring 1999 edition of Proposal Management, an editorial in the American Magazine of Aeronautics believed that Specification 486 was impossible to meet, and predicted that no bidders would emerge. Similar negative opinions were voiced by the former editor of Aeronautical Annals and of course, a multitude of newspaper reporters and editors.

In brief, the Wrights' bid promised to deliver an aircraft capable of meeting all requirements to the U.S. Board of Ordnance and Fortification, at a cost of $25,000. The Wrights' two-page bid was highly detailed and complete with technical drawings, a photograph of their improved 1905 Flyer design, and even a method for computing aircraft speed with corrections for wind speeds. The bid was accompanied by a deposit of 10% by certified cheque, made payable to General James Allen, the Chief Signal Officer for the U.S. Army.

Cheque Serial Number 1, the first cheque issued by the Wright Brothers company, dated January 27, 1908 and accompanying the Wright Brothers' bid to supply the U.S. Army Signal Corps with the world's first successful military aircraft. Note Wilbur Wright's initials, "W.W.", immediately below "Wright Brothers" on the signature line of the cheque.

Unlike today's convoluted government procurement process, just 12 days later, the Wrights received a telegram dated February 8, 1908 from General Allen, accepting the Wright bid. Contracts, ready for signatures, followed just three days later.

The aircraft, which became known alternatively as the Army Flyer or the Military Flyer, was delivered by Orville Wright to Fort Myer, a U.S. Army installation located next to Arlington National Cemetery (Arlington is famously built upon the grounds of the former estate of famed Civil War Confederate General Robert E. Lee). A contract extension provided additional time for testing and modifications.

During the Military Flyer's testing process, the Wrights set a number of records and proved the soundness of their design. In September 1908, with Orville Wright at the controls and Lt. Lahm as his passenger, a new endurance record was set, followed by another in June 1909, when Orville and Lahm remained aloft for one hour, 12 minutes, and 40 seconds. Shortly after, on July 27, Orville and another passenger exceeded 40 mph at an altitude of 400 feet in front of an audience of some 7,000 spectators, including then-U.S. President Taft.

The testing process was not without tragedy, though. On September 17, 1908, Lieutenant Thomas E. Selfridge acted as observer on a flight with Orville, who flew the aircraft to an altitude of 150 feet. At this height, a propeller failed and severed a control wire to the rudder, resulting in a crash. Lt. Selfridge was killed on impact, marking the first casualty in military aviation, while Orville Wright was badly injured.

In October 1909, the Flyer was able to remain airborne for longer than three hours, and an official speed of 42.583 mph was achieved, with the Wrights earning a 10% bonus for each mile per hour over the targeted 40 mph speed specified in the Army's specifications. As a result, the War Department paid $30,000 for the Military Flyer.

As part of the arrangement, the Wright's certified deposit cheque was returned to the brothers by General Allen.

Images of the reverse side of the Wright's certified deposit cheque that accompanied their successful bid to provide the world's first successful military aircraft to the of the U.S. Army Signal Corps. Inscription reads "Returned by James Allen, Chief Signal Officer" with Orville Wright's initials, "O.W."

Along with the Wright Military Flyer and the 1903 Flyer, which both reside in Washington D.C.'s Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, this cheque remains without doubt one of the most significant aviation artifacts of all time. Bearing the initials and handwriting of both Wright Brothers, as well as Serial Number 1, representing the first cheque ever issued by the brothers' reorganized firm, it is a fascinating link to the dawn of military aviation. It is currently offered for sale by the UK's Paul Fraser Collectibles, priced at £35,000. For further information or purchase arrangements, kindly contact us below this post.

Launch of Our New WarbirdTV YouTube Channel!

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 01:36:00 +0000

I've just set up our new WarbirdTV YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/user/WarbirdTV. Subscribe for free, and receive the latest posts.

Here are a selection of some of our best clips from the 2010 airshow season:

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 01:53:00 +0000

To all my readers, subscribers and fellow warbird enthusiasts: Thank You For a Great 2010 and Best Wishes For a Wonderful 2011!

My Son Eric and I getting some "seat time" in the Canadian Harvard Association Harvard IV, C-FWLH, s/n 20436 this past Summer at Tillsonburg Municipal Airport.

Another memory captured by my very good and long-time friend, Robert J. Kelle, who was visitng from California.

Onward and upward for 2011!

Original Parts from Charles Lindbergh's Landmark Transatlantic Flight For Sale!

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 23:01:00 +0000

While transatlantic commercial air travel is a routine, low-risk affair today, requiring less than eight hours’ flying time from New York to Paris, Charles Lindbergh was the first to perform the feat. That achievement is all the more remarkable, considering that the flight required 33 ½ hours in a single-engine aircraft, without today’s high-tech navigation aids and without the help of either a co-pilot or a navigator!

In the process, Lindbergh flew nearly 3,600 statue miles and won the $25,000 Orteig Prize, the quest for which had already claimed the lives of six pilots in earlier attempts.

To put Lindbergh’s achievement into its proper perspective, the flight of the Spirit of St. Louis conclusively proved the viability of transatlantic air travel and literally opened up the vital transatlantic air routes we take for granted today. As summed up by the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, where the Spirit resides today, the significance of Lindbergh’s epic flight is rivaled only by the Apollo moon landing of July 1969.

Lindbergh’s aircraft, the now-iconic silver Ryan NYP (short for New York to Paris), was a heavily modified variant of an existing Ryan design, with a much-larger fuel capacity. To accommodate the heavy fuel load required for the Atlantic crossing, forward visibility was sacrificed. To gain forward visibility, Lindbergh used a periscope mounted to his left. Otherwise, he was forced to bank the Spirit and use the side windows.

Sketch of the Spirit of St. Louis, officially known as the "Ryan NYP", registered as N-X-211.

The Spirit was designed by Donald A. Hall and manufactured by Ryan Airlines under Lindbergh’s personal supervision in just 60 days! Costing an immense $10,000, equal to the cost of a contemporary Rolls-Royce Phantom II automobile, the Spirit of St. Louis was named in honor of Lindbergh’s hometown sponsors. It was retired within one year of construction and made 174 flights in all, including the record transatlantic flight, logging 489 hours and 28 minutes of flying time in all. In addition to winning the Orteig Prize for his groundbreaking achievement, Lindbergh was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor and the Distinguished Flying Cross by U.S. President Calvin Coolidge.

Following the historic flight, the Spirit of St. Louis was flown to Brussels, Belgium, then to Croydon south of London, England, and then to Gosport on England’s south coast. The Spirit was then dismantled, packed into two shipping crates, and returned with Lindbergh to the United States aboard the USS Memphis. Once back stateside, the Spirit was unpacked, reassembled and carefully inspected at Anacostia, Washington in preparation for a triumphant flying tour.

Wright Aeronautical Company employees Kenneth Lane and Kenneth Boedecker, who were two of a group of four that had checked and fine-tuned the Spirit and its 223 hp Wright J5-C “Whirlwind” engine before its epic flight, supervised the reassembly of the aircraft. From Anacostia, Lindbergh flew the Spirit to Roosevelt Field on Long Island, then on to St. Louis, Michigan’s Selfridge Field, and Ottawa, Canada.

On July 4, 1927, Lindbergh flew back from Ottawa to Teeterboro, New Jersey, where he met Lane for additional preparatory work on the Spirit in advance of the main U.S. leg of the tour, which included visits to all U.S. states and 80 individual cities. At this point in time, Lindbergh handed Lane the survival equipment that was aboard the Spirit on the New York-Paris flight, which was now deemed unnecessary, in order to keep it safe from the anticipated throngs of souvenir hunters.

Lane also removed several parts from the Spirit’s record flight that were worn and deemed unfit for the rigors of the extensive tour Lindbergh was about to undertake. Among them were “bungee”-type shock absorber cords strained by the Spirit’s heavy fuel load, spark plugs needing replacement, and a rocker arm from the Wright engine. The survival kit and the removed parts remained with Kenneth Lane until the 1970s, when Mr. Lane and Lindbergh historian Everett Cassageneres donated the survival kit to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Other Spirit of St. Louis items donated to museums included a spark plug, a “bungee” shock cord and a fairing strip to the Minnesota Historical Society’s Charles A. Lindbergh Historic site, as well as a number of artifacts that went to the San Diego Aerospace Museum, which are believed to have been destroyed by fire.

Among the items retained from the Spirit and available to collectors today include two AC Type N spark plugs for the Wright J5-C “Whirlwind” engine, a rocker arm (serial number 7331), and three shock-absorber “bungee” cords from either the main landing gear or the tail skid. These items were later mounted within a custom oak case with an engraved plaque and today, the items within this case are the only known original pieces of the Spirit of St. Louis used on the record-setting New York-Paris flight to ever come to market.

Parts used on the famous transatlantic flight and removed from the Spirit of St. Louis by engineer Kenneth Lane, prior to Charles Lindbergh's extensive goodwill tour.

As advised by the UK’s Paul Fraser Collectibles firm, Lindbergh-related items tend to retain their values quite well, as evidenced by a number of high-profile sales in recent years. Among them, a landing certificate at Le Bourget, received after Lindbergh’s transatlantic flight and dated to 22 May 1927, sold for $32,500 in 1993. In 1999, a collection of Lindbergh rarities sold for $178,000, including hammer fee. Included were a five-line typewritten endorsement signed by Lindbergh, some other pieces of mail carried on the Spirit of St Louis, and an autographed note on American Embassy stationery. An “Air Mail” cover, accompanied by a typewritten letter signed by Lindbergh, has also sold for over $126,000, including hammer.

In November 2002, a lot of items, including an American Flag with a typed note signed by Lindbergh, sold for $57,500. The same year, a one-page letter from the historic flight sold for $75,000. In November 2006, another lot sold for $60,000 and included a small American Flag carried by Lindbergh on the Spirit of St Louis during the 1927 transatlantic flight, accompanied by a typed note autographed by the famed aviator.
However, these original parts from the Spirit of St. Louis are the first and likely the only aircraft parts of Lindbergh’s transatlantic flight to ever appear for public sale. As such, the items within this oak case are incredibly desirable and fascinating historical artifacts from one of the greatest achievements, aviation-related or otherwise, of the 20th Century. Today, the parts and case are available for £125,000 from the UK’s Paul Fraser Collectibles. Interested parties may comment below this post, or contact Paul Fraser Collectibles directly at info@paulfrasercollectibles.com or by telephone +44 (0) 117 933 9500 to discuss the purchase of this rare and immensely desirable historical artifact.

For Sale: Messerschmitt Bf 109 "Lake Find" (Part Two)

noreply@blogger.com (David C. Neyens) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 01:03:00 +0000

Last post, I left off with the last combat action of Messerschmitt Bf 109 410077 and its Spring 1944 descent into the frigid waters of Estonia's Lake Swiblo. Almost 50 years later in 1990, it was raised to the surface and recovered by a group of Russian aircraft enthusiasts who worked at a small Moscow company called "Retrotechnika", who upon recovery, transported it to Moscow. Copies of newspaper articles documenting the recovery (in German) are with the aircraft and one is shown below.

Around 1990-1992, the Bf 109 was moved to Tuchino AFB in Moscow and stored. Soon after, it came to Georgia, USA and was offered for sale on the warbird market by Ben Kolotin of a firm called "Kolair". The plane was then purchased, along with an earlier Bf 109 G-2, parts of another G-6 and several wings, by noted collector the late Ed Zaleski of British Columbia, Canada, who passed away in 2009. According to Mr. Zaleski's son Mark, the aircraft and components were stored in Washington State, USA.

Next, the aircraft and parts inventory was sold by Mr. Zaleski to Mr. David Prewett of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, who purchased the aircraft in 1999 for restoration, moving it from Canada to Australia. Over the next few years, Mr. Prewett acquired two spare engines, comprising one DB 605 cylinder block, crankshaft and connecting rods, as well as an assembled, detailed and very complete (possibly overhauled) DB 605 engine. The overhauled unit is remarkably complete and highly detailed, including a turbo-supercharger and fuel-injection plumbing.

Propeller hub assembly and five prop blades, with two mounted for the photo. Note the assembled DB 605 V-12 within its cradle on the left, the spare DB 605 cylinder block, and the aircraft's original, battle-damaged DB 605/601 engine to the right.

A view of the overhauled and impressivley detailed Daimler-Benz DB 605 inverted V-12 engine.

Original, battle-damaged DB 605/601 V-12 engine (DB 605 engine block, DB 601 cylinder heads). Note damage to cylinder block, exposing cylinder sleeves. Parts of valvetrain visible as well.

The spare DB 605 engine block. Cylinder liners/sleeves are not in place, providing a rare glimpse into the internal structure.

Spare DB 605 crankshaft, appearing fresh from the machine-shop.

Carefully boxed spare DB 605 connecting rod assemblies.

The airframe of the Bf 109 is incredibly preserved. Restoration was begun under Mr. Prewett's ownership of the project, most evident here at the windscreen framing and firewall.

The wings retain their original Luftwaffe cross markings. Original windscreen framing and upper cowling seen as well. The black sqauarish item underneath is the aircraft's original fuselage-mounted fuel cell.

Main fuselage section, wing and wingtip.

View of the impressively restored cockpit, with instrumentation, controls and restored/refabricated forward cockpit canopy section.

Closeup of the instrument panel.

Upper engine cowling, with ducts for the twin machine-gun barrels and "blister" fairings for the machine-gun breeches.

During his tenure, Mr. Prewett also accumulated an amazing amount of documents, including blueprints, workshop manuals, parts catalogues, technical drawings, and more. These documents cover all systems of the aircraft, including the Daimler-Benz DB 605 engine. Some have been translated to English.

Today, The airframe, engines, parts inventory and documentation are carefully stored within two standard-size shipping containers under climate-controlled conditions. All parts and components are fully cross-referenced to a detailed spreadsheet inventory list. It is hoped that this aircraft will eventually be restored to airworthy condition or restored for static museum display. It is also an impressive static museum display piece “as is”, and could provide a wealth of original parts and data to assist with another restoration.

Parts Inventory:
Airframe as recovered
2 RH type F wings
Pair engine mounts
Pair undercarriage legs and mounting brackets.
Bomb /belly tank mounting frame
DB 601 engine badly damaged
Parts subsequently acquired over the years
DB605 engine
DB 605 cylinder liners
Centre and rear cockpit canopy
Windshield frame
Main wheels and tail wheel with tyres
Port side brake assembly
Tail wheel strut
Wing flap
Supercharger intake
Supercharger and oil pump
Complete instrument panel
Seat base
Electrical panel
Mother compass
Oxygen regulator
Oxygen mask
Undercarriage hydraulic cylinder
10 x cowl latches
Fuel and oil caps
Magneto
Relay assembly for magneto
External power socket
Battery mainswitch
2 x hydraulic pumps,
Primer pump
Firewall hydraulic units
Generator
generator regulator
2 x oxygen bottles
rudder pedals
Electric starter motor
Fuel injection pump
12 Fuel injector nozzles
24 spark plugs
2 coolant tanks
Radio Antenna
New "old stock" bolts studs and circlips
Umformer- inverter for artificial horizon

Technical Information
Engine workshop manuals
Airframe drawings
Parts book, "K" version, Tragwerk rechts
Parts book, "K" version, Tragwerk links
Parts book "K" version Rumph, fuselage
Parts book "K" version Triebwerk, engine systems, attachments and cowlings
Parts book G1-G6 version, fuselage, landing gear,fuel systems, cooling systems, hydraulic systems, control systems.
Parts book G1-G6 version, engine attachments and systems, armaments, radios.
Parts books F/G-G2 similar to above.
Ersatzerliste Fur DB 605A/B, Engine parts book
Einspritz gerate fur DB flugmotoren
DB 605A/B flugmotoren handbuch (English)
DB603 flugmotren handbuch
Reparatur anleitung DB605A/B, engine repair manual.
Einbau-mappe fur den DB605A/B flugmotor, engine repair manual
DB601E-G, 603 A-F 605A-C, flugmotoren Schlosser, engine repair manual.
G2 G6 Flight manual, translated from Finnish into English.
German Aircraft standards 1920-1939.
BF109G1-K4 engines and fitting (English)
BF109G2-G6 flight manuals (translated from Finnish to English)
BF109G2 Electrical . Finnish State Aircraft Factory.
F1-F4 Teil 8A Schubwaffenlage (armament) MG17/FF & 151
G5 Teil 8A Schubwaffenlage MG151 -2x 131
G6U4 Teil 8A Schubwaffenlage MK108-2x131
G6U4 Teil 0 Allgemiene angaben
G3 Teil 9D Bordenfunkanlage (radio) FuG16-17-25
G3 Teil 0 Allgemeine angaben
G3 Teil 0 Beheift 1
G5 Teil 0 Allgemaine angaben
G5 Teil 7C, GMI anlage, nitrous oxide.
K4 Teil 9B Electriches bordnetz
Wiring schematic derived from Finnish G2