2021 THORP T18

General Specs (cont.)

Total Time:10

Engine 1 Time:10 SMOH

Prop 1 Time:10 SNEW

Useful Load:772

Condition:Used

Year Painted:2021

Interior Year:2021

Flight Rules:VFR

# of Seats:2

Additional Classifications

Detailed Description

This T-18 was completed by the original builder in late 2021. After the builder obtained the airworthiness certification on 3/16/22 the aircraft was flown for about 10 hours before, sadly, he suddenly became ill and passed away. The family is in the process of dispositioning his aviation related assets and are now able to sell this aircraft.

Generally, the builder had a career as a craftsman / pattern maker. His career skills resulted in a very clean, straight, light, well-built aircraft with a very respectable level of craftsmanship. He also collaborated closely with other informed builders and support groups to integrate the current best practices and design elements into this aircraft. 

The key construction elements reported in this aircraft include the following:

- The original aircraft design was built for the Lycoming O-290 engine. This aircraft has an O-290-D engine. This is not a converted ground power unit, rather an original O-290-D SN 2305-21 aircraft engine. The original log book for the engine is included however, it was overhauled / assembled by Bud Farr Aircraft service in May of 2003. All the parts used in the overhaul were either new or professionally re-certified as appropriate. All the records and receipts for the parts used in the overhaul are included in the records. It had new Mags installed however the mag AD's were complied with by a 500-hour inspection and the carburetor rebuilt in 2022 during the engine installation. It does have an oil cooler and modern light weight starter. The new wood prop is Sensenich W66LM72, SN 71294.

- The tail wheel assembly is the more modern round "RV" type tail spring and fork assembly.

- The folding wing airfoil is the updated version mitigates the need for the stall strips on the earlier airfoil design.

- The airframe is the standard width body. The airframe is nicely polished with paint accents where appropriate. (E.G. there are no hidden construction / rivet boogers under painted surfaces)

- The empty Weight is 828 lbs. With a 1600 gross the useful load is an excellent 772 lbs. (This is a significant benefit and in line with the original structural design envelope. It is also a good indication of the builder following the plans and used best practices to avoid unnecessary weight)

- The aircraft is VFR equipped. The professionally installed modern avionics including a Garmin GTR-200 Com radio, a Garmin GTX-327 transponder and an ACK E-04 emergency locator transmitter.

The aircraft was originally test flown by a professional pilot who is now based in Alaska. Another local professional pilot also flew the plane with the owner. He reported that the aircraft performed well and had no adverse or abnormal flying characteristics for this type of aircraft. (This pilot may be available for additional flying) The aircraft has approximately 10 hours on it and is still limited to the test area of 40 nm radius around Burlington WI KBUU. The process of managing the builder's estate has taken time. The aircraft will probably need a current condition inspection prior to additional flights.

This is a BRAND-NEW airplane that is very affordable and small enough to share hangar space on most airports. The builder advised his family that he felt the aircraft was worth $45,000 prior to his passing. The family is asking $39,600 for the aircraft and would consider only reasonable offers.

Note: I gathered this information, as a good friend of the family, to help them sell the aircraft at a fair price. Much of the information came from people close to the project or have flown the aircraft. I did not personally build it and have not personally flown it therefore this is all the information I have. Pictures of the aircraft and the logs are available to send via email upon request. It is available for inspection at KBUU in Wisconsin.