Smart Parts was a paintball manufacturing company in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, which filed for liquidation on July 28, 2010.^[1]As of August 22, 2010 Smart Parts Assets and IP was Acquired by Kee Action Sports.^[2]

1. Amos Carpentry & Maintenance Training Program. Skill Building + Community + Education = Employment. Fresh air, fresh start. In 2007 Amos House launched the Amos.
2. Inspection Of All CH-47D, MH-47D And MH-47E Aircraft For Forward And Aft Transmission Gear/Bearing Assemblies Indentified By Serial Number Prefix 'VB' 61 Kb. TB 1-1520-240-20-115: All CH-47D, MH-47D And MH-47E Aircraft, Replacement Of Suspect Forward And Aft Transmission Assemblies With Ones That Have Been Inspected And Cleared For Operation.

Inspection Of Riveted Impulse Couplings And Stop This Bulletin Supersedes MEB92-2: NA: MEB92-02R1: See Publication: Magneto Impulse Coupling And Stop Pin Inspection MEB92-2 Is Superseded By Service Bulletin MEB94-5: NA: SNL94-06:: Informational: Propeller Airplanes Serial Number Listing Revised Serial Number Listing. Contingent to this was the growing number of parts and accessories available for the Impulse line as well, from various manufacturers and developers, which allowed nearly every part of the marker to be swapped for an 'aftermarket' version. The serial number of the marker is located on the right-hand side towards the back.

Products[edit]

Smart Parts was a producer of paintball markers and accessories. Their first product was the Smart Parts aluminium one piece barrel made for the Tippmann 68 Special and the PMI-3 semi automatic markers. This barrel had a standard bore with a spiral drilled venting system in the end of the barrel. The design supposedly improved accuracy by decreasing turbulence as the paintball exited the barrel, and also decreased noise produced by the gun upon firing. The later All-American Barrel was a two-piece barrel system using spiral porting and a front bore diameter of 68 caliber. In the early to mid 1990s SP's products ranged from barrels and clothing to a few generic accessories along with some marker specific ones (such as parts for the AirGun Designs Automag series).

Barrel system[edit]

Smart Parts produced The Freak paintball marker barrel system that can accommodate almost any size bore diameter paintball. The Freak kit comes standard with eight different sized barrel inserts including: .679,.682,.684,.687,.689,.691,.693,.695. Along with the eight inserts includes the Freak kit case as well as the Freak back piece. The front barrel piece is sold separately in different lengths in order to accommodate all barrel lengths.

Markers[edit]

pneuVentures Shocker & Shocker Sport[edit]

In 1990, Smart Parts produced their first in-house marker. Called the Boss, the Smart Parts pump marker featured a spiral ported barrel and a 'shoebox' style body (which would be mirrored in their first electronic gun design); The Boss was targeted at high-end woodsball tournament players but was not well-received, being considered to be too heavy and too large (when compared to offerings such as the Carter Comp or LAPCO Grey Ghost). The Boss was withdrawn from the market and Smart Parts concentrated on producing customized versions of other manufacturer's markers until 1996 when Smart Parts began selling their first electronic marker, the Shocker. This marker was manufactured by a company called pneuVentures, but sold exclusively through Smart Parts. This original Shocker was a dual-solenoid, closed bolt, hammerless marker that was large, heavy, inefficient, and could fire a maximum speed of 9 shots per second. A couple thousand of these were sold over the course of its lifetime. Other companies that had been working on their own electronic markers also released them about the same time (WDP Angel - 1996, Brass Eagle Rainmaker - 1997).

The pneuVentures Shocker was sold until 1997 when Smart Parts redesigned it and started producing it themselves. This redesigned marker, which became known as the Shocker Sport, was released in 1998. It included a number of major revisions to the original design, including a more lightweight profile, improved electronics and grounding, a faster cycling set of internals, and better solenoids. The Shocker Sport was sold from 1998 to 2002, and the design of its external look changed a few times during that period. A few companies even released their own customized versions, mainly the Planet Eclipse Shocker (which was manufactured by Smart Parts for the company Planet Eclipse, which at the time didn't make any markers of their own). Another customized Shocker was the SL Shocker from HyperSportWorks.

Shocker Sports were the first factory marker to feature an enhanced firing mode, which later became known as 'ramping'. This firing mode was called Turbo mode by Smart Parts, and involved a firing program whereby the user would pull the trigger around 5 times per second, and the marker's actual firing speed would increase to over 9 shots per second. This type of firing mode was largely unheard-of in the industry at the time, so people were conflicted about its use. Turbo mode became illegal to use in tournaments and on some open-play recreational games due to the obvious advantage it gave the user.After the turn of the century, ramping modes have become more and more popular, and many markers come with them as stock from the factory. As a result, the use of ramping modes has become more mainstream, and is allowed in some recreational games and some tournaments. However, this varies from game to game and tournament circuit to circuit, so it is still disallowed by many fields.

Impulse[edit]

The Impulse was released in the year 2000 and was the sister design to SP's other marker available at the time, the Shocker Sport. Over the course of its lifetime the Impulse became one of the most popular markers available, and was notable for following many trends for parts, style, and features in the paintball industry on the turn of the century.

Impulses had a similar appearance to the Shocker Sport, however they were internally quite different; Impulses were based on the common 'stacked-tube' hammer/valve layout (two bore design, bolt on top with the hammer on bottom). In contrast to the Shocker Sport, Impulses were capable of faster fire rates, were more lightweight, were cheaper, and also experienced greater tank efficiency. As a result, the gaining popularity of this product over the Shocker was foreseeable. Impulses were one of many stacked-tube electronic markers developed around the same time by opposing companies. Markers such as this were considered to be the top-end by many players (typically those involved with tournaments), and as a result the cost for upgraded versions was quite high ($1000+).

In 2001, Smart Parts released a variety of upgrades and enhancements to the Impulse line, including the Vision eye system, upgraded bolts, improved valves and internals, and other smaller upgrade components. The Vision electronic eye system was particularly popular since few other markers were available with such a part from the factory (this has since changed, and the feature is a near-requirement from manufacturers). In 2002, the electronics were redesigned to the 'Cricket' version, which involved a more reliable circuit board that also used more developed programming.

The other growing trend that Impulses followed were the addition of stylish milling patterns and designs, suited for different retailers and sponsored teams. This has become a popular trend for the more expensive markers of today. There were over 30 customized body styles and parts available known as 'Private Labels' before the marker was discontinued. Contingent to this was the growing number of parts and accessories available for the Impulse line as well, from various manufacturers and developers, which allowed nearly every part of the marker to be swapped for an 'aftermarket' version. The serial number of the marker is located on the right-hand side towards the back.

List of Private Label Impulses:^[3]

• Python Impulse
• SIC Impulse
• Atomix Impulse
• Atomix TRIBAL Impulse
• Ca$h Money Impulse
• Ton Ton Impulse
• Meteor Impulse
• Adrenalin Impulse
• RAT Impulse
• Predator Impulse
• Freak Factory Impulse
• Nasty Impulse
• Game Face Impulse
• Demonic Impulse
• Strange Vision Impulse
• Toxic Impulse
• AVI Impulse
• 32º Impulse
• Shocktech SFL Impulse
• Hotrod Impulse
• Eclipse Impulse
• Mouse Impulse
• Tiger Impulse
• Fireball Mountain Gothic Impulse
• Fireball Mountain Factory Impulse
• Fireball Mountain Razzor Impulse
• Evil Impulse
• Dark Impulse
• Neurotic Sports Edition Impulse
• VooDoo Impulse
• Hyperpulse
• Blizzard Impulse

In 2009 Smart Parts released another Impulse, a high-end marker that used the ram driven operation of the Ego and Intimidator. It incorporated several features used by Smart Parts' highest-end marker, the DLX Luxe, such as an internal gas system.

Shocker SFT & Shocker NXT[edit]

The year 2003 brought several new markers and products from Smart Parts, due to a reshuffling of design engineers. The most notable new product from this time period was the Shocker 03 marker (whose name soon after became Shocker SFT). The Shocker SFT was a redesigned marker that used a single solenoid open bolt, cock valve operation capable of high firing speeds,small body size, but an average efficiency without a Smart Parts High Efficiency Bolt. Although this marker was given the name 'Shocker', it actually shares virtually no design aspects with its namesake the older Shocker Sport. However, Smart Parts decided to call it the next-generation 'Shocker' for marketing purposes, since the older Shockers were already discontinued.

Ever since having been released in July 2003, the Shocker SFT has remained the premier Smart Parts marker, representing top of the line performance and reliability. Shockers have been chosen by the majority of Smart Parts' sponsored teams since their release. The Shocker's popularity also brought along many upgrades and customized versions, available from various manufacturers and developers, similar to its older brother the Impulse. Base-model Shockers currently retail around $700, with the more customized 'private label' version around $1000 or more (depending on the model).

In late 2006 (sometimes described as 2007 for simplicity) the Shocker SFT was redesigned into the newer 'Shocker NXT' version, which is the same internal marker as the SFT, except it uses upgraded parts from the factory, and has a few enhancements to the frame, in-line regulator, and other parts of the marker to increase performance and reliability. The cosmetics were also changed to reflect the new internals. Some Shocker SFT parts are no longer compatible with the newer Shocker NXT model. This includes barrel threads, as the NXT uses the same threads as the Ion and Impulse. There are several other parts that may not be compatible, including the trigger, and vertical ASA.

Private Label Shockers Include:(SFT)

• Octane
• Nasty
• Strange Vision
• Shocktech
• Toxic
• Dynasty
• 06 Dynasty
• Ton Ton
• Dark
• Hybrid
• Freeflow
• Russian Legion
• OWL Sharks
• Miami effect

Nerve[edit]

The other new-to-2003 Smart Parts marker was called the Nerve. It has since been discontinued. Nerves are a next-generation Impulse design, featuring a smaller and lighter profile, improved internals, upgraded and streamlined components from the factory, and a sleeker external look. It shares many parts that are interchangeable with the shocker, however it uses a different platform for operation. When Nerves were first released (several months late due to manufacturing and development issues), it was designed to be Smart Parts flagship 'no upgrades needed' marker. It came packed with Smart Parts best accessories. The high-end features resulted in the MSRP costing $1200 for the base model, or $1500 for the upgraded package with HPA tank included. The reasoning for this was based on the previous customized Impulse markers, which retailed for $1000+, however the Nerve's high price tag didn't fare as well with the public. This was partially because public trends were already shifting away from the stacked-tube hammer/valve markers which the Nerve was based from, and toward more advanced designs such as the Shocker, Dye Matrix line, and others (this trend proceeded through 2004). To combat this, Nerve price was dropped a few months later to $1000, then again to $850. At this point Nerves were finally gaining popularity as originally expected, however one final blow was dealt to the Nerve which would put it away - the release of the Ion (below). In late 2005 SP produced an additional large batch of Nerve parts, however after this the line was halted and the marker was unofficially discontinued in light of other products.

Ion/Ion XE[edit]

In March 2005, Smart Parts released their most popular marker, the Ion. The development, production, and eventual release of this product were completely unanticipated due to being conducted in relative secrecy by Smart Parts. As a result, when the Ion became available it was an immediate hit in both sales, demand, and expectations.

The Ion was the trend starter for a new marketing idea in the paintball industry, whereby relatively high-performance parts would be sold after the absolute lowest price markup, thus allowing the product (Ion) to be sold for an extremely reasonable price. The Ion uses similar principals in design to the higher-performance Shocker marker, however several key factors to the Ion design were altered to allow it a drastic reduction in production cost (allowing the low MSRP price tag for the end-user). In particular, the Ion was cheaper to produce due to its modular body/exoskeleton design, newly designed inexpensive solenoid, and use of internal air tubing instead of machined manifold ports like high-end markers. These, combined with a reasonably low markup in price for retailers, allowed the Ion to debut with an MSRP of $275. The MSRP was later reduced to $200 for about a year-long period, but was increased back up to $225 at a later time. It was again reduced back down to $200.

The Ion has quickly become one of the most, if not the most popular markers ever available. This is justified by it selling over 100,000 units in a one-year period, a feat which few if any paintball markers has ever done to date; some markers that have been available for over a decade haven't been able to match these numbers. The release of this marker dealt a noticeable blow to nearly every competing product across the globe, and was so strong that it even affected the resale and demand of used products as well. The release of the Ion had more than doubled the size of Smart Parts itself, in both manufacturing space and workforce. A few years after having been released, the wake of the Ion's blow to the paintball industry actually hit Smart Parts themselves, which contributed to the temporary increase in MSRP. This particular year in the paintball industry (2005) saw the most closed stores, fields, and manufacturers than all previous years combined. The release of the Ion being coincidentally in 2005 surely couldn't have helped, however factual evidence either way is circumstantial.

Other paintball companies have matched this low-cost, low markup marketing concept (examples being the Proto Rail (based on the Proto Matrix), ICD Promaster, Eclipse Etek Ego (based on the Planet Eclipse Ego), and others). However, these competing products are notably less popular in comparison, likely due to their higher price tags, although still remaining very economic alternatives to their respective 'high-performance' counterparts. The popularity of the Ion also allots it a massive amount of upgrades and specialized products, and like the older Impulse literally every part of the marker can be replaced with an aftermarket version.

In 2007 Smart Parts released an updated version of the ion called the ION XE, that includes built in B.O.B (bolt out back) function, which allows easier removal of the bolt. This makes maintenance considerably easier, as one must only take out a single screw as opposed to taking apart the entire marker. This was one of the major criticisms of the original Ions. The new Ion XE also consists of a new and improved low profile feedneck and a new body design. Ion XE colored bodies are available.

SP-8[edit]

The SP-8 was released after the Ion. Mechanically, the two markers are almost identical, the major differences being that the SP-8 has a 45 degree feed tube instead of a vertical one, the regulator is mounted 15 degrees forward instead of vertical, the pressure gauge is on the right side instead of the left, and the triggers are different. The most noticeable difference is that the SP-8 has a milsim body, designed to mimic the appearance of a Heckler & Koch XM8 assault rifle, and is designed to easily allow the addition of a stock, as well as military accessories such as bipods, tactical flashlights, or red dot sights using weaver rails. This product was designed to bring the performance of an electronic marker to scenario players who sought paintball marker with a more realistic look and feel.

SP1[edit]

The SP1 is a woodsball/scenario marker, being released in the same lineup as the Vibe, EOS, and Ion XE. It is the Vibe's woodsball counterpart (it has 7 mounting rails on its body for flashlights, laser sights and scopes), in the same way that the SP8 is the Ion's counterpart. It is also limited to 11 BPS. It uses the same internals as the Vibe, but has two different shells to protect them (an internal shell and an external 'cosmetic' shell). Smart Parts claims that this marker has many possible upgrades, although most of these are limited to the guns mounting rails thus far. As with the Vibe, players whom own this marker are finding ways to shut off the Maximum Rate Of Fire limiter. With Smart Parts releasing the Blackheart in Q1 2008, the rate of fire is raised to 20 BPS. Along with that it adds anti-chop eyes.

Epiphany/EOS[edit]

The epiphany marker represents an upgraded version of the Ion. The Epiphany is a more stylized, upgraded Ion which comes with several factory enhancements out of the box, saving the user from buying the more inexpensive Ion and having to buy separate upgraded components for it over time. Besides for the obvious cosmetic difference, Epiphanies feature a metal exoskeleton and frame (with plating, to avoid threading problems), upgraded Firebolt, Freak barrel starter, integrated ASA dovetail, Q-Lock Feed Neck (Eos only), and Smartvalve ASA among other things. Internally the Epiphany also gives the user the ability to alter the marker's internal firing air volume. This is carried out by select from three different internal air volume 'inserts' which are used to take up slack space in the marker's fire chamber. The smaller air space in the fire chamber can refill faster, which allows the Epiphany to fire faster without velocity drop-off when compared to the Ion and SP-8. The fire chamber inserts allow fine-tuning and adjustment that wouldn't be previously available without developing a homemade modification. The Epiphany fire chamber, inserts and valve spring are available as performance upgrades for the Ion and SP-8. Epiphanies are available in multiple colors and cost around $300.

Vibe[edit]

Vibe is the latest marker in Smart Part's low cost lineup, as it was released at the same time as the SP1, the EOS, and the Ion XE. It is an electropneumatic marker operating at approximately 180 PSI, similar to that of the Ion. It is also extremely inexpensive for an electropneumatic marker - it can be bought for $140. It doesn't include eyes, instead it has a low force bolt. With the low force bolt - chopping is nearly eliminated. The newer Vibe has 4 firing modes; tournament lock semi auto, semi auto, 3 shot burst, and fully automatic. The first batch of Vibes didn't include these modes and because of the upgrade so close after the release - Smart Parts will upgrade your non select fire board free of charge.

The marker weight is only 1 lb. 11 oz. The length (w/out barrel) is 8.75 in. The vibe is made of Glass fiber reinforced nylon grip (frame/body) and accepts Impulse threaded barrels.

Barrels (All American, Teardrop, Flute; Freak & Freak JR.)[edit]

Smart Parts has sold their two-piece All American barrel system since 1989. This was changed in 2001 to the current version which uses a standardized thread compatible with Freak barrel backs (below). The cosmetic milling was changed on the AA barrel in 2006 (along with most other barrels from SP).

SP has sold or is currently selling several one-piece barrels, including the Progressive (stock on Impulses), Teardrop (Progressive barrel with upgraded porting), Linear barrel, and the Tactical 21' barrel (used mainly on SP8 markers).

Smart Parts' major barrel product is the Freak barrel system. This is an 'insert' barrel kit, where the user selects one of a number of different-sized bore inserts to use (eight different sizes and a barrel back and barrel tip come with the full Freak kit). There is a total of 9 inserts in normal sizes and a 10th one (reball sized). The boremaster sets are: the aluminum boremaster set is .679,.682,.684,.687,.689,.691,.693,and .695 and the stainless boremaster set is .682,.684,.687,.689,.691,.693,.695,and .697. The insert is then installed in the back of the barrel (a two-piece barrel plus the insert, making three pieces total). The alternative to this is a 'multi-bore' kit that consists of varied barrel backs for a two-piece barrel. The advantages to using an insert instead of a multi-back kit is greatly reduced price and versatility of use on more than one type of marker. The disadvantage is that inserts are more fragile (aluminium more so than the stainless) than a typical barrel back, so care must be taken.Freak barrels are available in aluminium and steel versions, compatible with both Freak and All American style fronts (varying color, length. Freak barrel backs and All American backs are compatible with the 'Stiff tip' (carbon fiber tip made by STIFFI/Site Mfg.). The insert sets are compatible with white wolf airsmithing's 'justice barrels' aka phantoms 'Frantom', and Deadly Winds 'Fiber barrel' . Freak styling was changed in 2006 along with the other SP barrels.

Apparel[edit]

In addition to equipment, Smart Parts manufactured different types of apparel, such as jerseys, pants, pod packs, barrel socks/plugs, and casual wear. Smart Parts developed customized jerseys for their sponsored teams and could also be contracted to making a team number of jerseys for private use.

Air systems[edit]

Smart Parts has continuously strived to market non-screw in type tank systems for use with their markers. These types of air systems are mounted directly to the marker and don't use a standard 'screw-in' type ASA adapter. The first version of this air system was the Max-Flo manifold in 1999, which continued until mid/late 2003. This regulator system used a large regulator and attached manifold section to operate. This was redesigned into the Max-Flo Inline in 2003, which continued until early 2006. The Max-Flo Inline was similar to the previous versions except drastically reduced in size and appearance. In 2006 SP released the Max-Flo Micro, which was their first non-adjustable tank system. The Micro version is the smallest air system to date from SP.

Smart Parts also produced an in-line ASA on/off valve (called the Smartvalve) which gives standard screw-in tanks the ability to use an on/off shutoff valve. The Smartvalve system does not include a bleed feature. The Smartvalve was also available in a CO₂ tank version, giving the CO₂ tank integrated shutoff capability as well.

References[edit]

1. ^'Smart Parts Files for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy'. 68Caliber. 28 July 2010. Retrieved 5 August 2010.
2. ^'Action Sports Acquired Smart Parts Assets'. 68Caliber. 4 April 2011. Retrieved 4 April 2011.
3. ^'The ULTIMATE Private Label Impulse Guide!'. May 2010.

External links[edit]

The information collection contained in this section has been contributed through email communication between Taylorcraft enthusiasts. The information is divided into the following areas:

The timeliness and accuracy of this information has NOT been verified. Our FAQ team has updated this version with more to follow. Comments are welcome: send to Forrest Barber (fbarber .at. alliancelink.com)

Use at your own risk.

For the pre-war B, and some ships in 1945 the serial number is stamped on the right or left side top door hinge tab that is welded to the fuselage frame, also sometimes on the door hinge itself. Later on in 1946 it was stamped into the backside of the throttle plate assembly, quite often upside down. Sometimes it may appear on a triangular gusset under the co pilot seat.

The first BC-12D started with ser #6400. The pre-war B models started with #1000 and on up through the 3,000's. The Model D (tandems) serial number is stamped on the top of the rear throttle. You may have to pull the throttle out slightly to see the number. Yes, the military had a separate data plate with their number.

The serial number from the factory was on the top of the rear throttle, i.e. L-5071; we have the books at the Taylorcraft Foundation that matches the Civilian and Military numbers. Some early ships were Civilian only. When they came back out of the military, they had to have a civilian dataplate fabricated.

All TG-6 gliders could be converted back into powered ships.

On the L-2A, L-2B, and L-2M the data plate is mounted on the right side of the desk in the rear (according to the drawings). Ideally you should have a military (if a military ship) and civilian data plates for your DCO.

Dick Huish (warbug34 at aol.com) is our guru for L-2 information. Search the forum for more details.

The Taylorcraft models from 'The Pilot's Guide to Affordable Classics'

1. Civilian Model D and 0-57's s/n 4008 to 4011 and 4045 to 4066 also exp 4183
2. Prefixes '0' for 0-57 and 'L' for L-2 includes 251 TG-6 gliders
3. Wartime experimental ships given ser #'s and sometimes NX numbers
4. Built in Alliance after 47 Bankruptcy and reorganization
5. Built in Conway, Pa., by Ben Mauro (Taylorcraft Inc.)
6. Ranch wagon, Topper, Seabird, Zephyr 400; all Fiberglas models built in Conway, Pa.
7. Charles & Dorothy Feris production in Alliance #13 & #113 not built
8. The F-22 dropped the F in ser# after the move to Lock Haven, Pa. There are some duplications F-22's have the same S/n's as 1940 Model BC's in some cases.

Pre WWII:

BC-65. The BC-65 powered by Continental 65-hp engine

BF-60. This model is powered by Franklin 60-hp engine

BL-65. The BL-65 is powered by Lycoming 65-hp engine

BC-12. The BC-12 is powered by Continental 65-hp engine 1200 lb gross wt immediately prewar. See Type Certificates 696, 699 & 700.

D. The D model is set up in tandem seating with stick controls instead of side by side and was accepted into military service as the O-57. Later the designation was changed to L-2. Several models of the L-2 were used by the military. The L-2 (with no letter designation) was the? basically the same as the civilian D model. The L-2A and B had 'glass' or windows all around the cockpit including behind and had the cylinders sticking out the cowling side of the nose like the Piper J-3. The L-2M had spoiler on the wings and a completely cowled engine like the BC12D.

E. L-2C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K and L military models were all civilian B models that the military used in some capacity and were not related to the D model.

Post WWII:

BC-12D. The BC-12D model was the postwar version of the BC-12.

After the war plenty of factory parts existed for the D model (L-2) model. The model D tail was added to the B model (along with other refinements) and the post war BC12D was born. The most notable difference between the pre war B and D tail group is a two hinge rudder verses the three hinge pre war rudder as well as being slightly different in shape.

BC-12D-85. This model is a BC-12D powered by a Continental 85-hp engine.

BC-12D-4-85. The BC-12D-4-85 is a BC-12D-85 with additional rear side windows. The engine was placed 4 inches ahead to allow the starter & generator clearance.

The Model 19 (see Type Certificate #1A9) was a BC-12D-4-85 with a Continental C-85-12 engine & gross weight of 1500lbs. All models to follow are TC # 1A9.

F-19. The F-19 was a model 19 with a Continental O-200 engine. Built in Alliance by Charles & Dorothy Feris 1972 thru 1986.

F-21. The model F-21 was an F-19 with a Lycoming O-235-118-hp engine and hydraulic brakes still 1500 lb. Gross Wt.

F-21A. The A version was an F-21 with (2) 21 gal fuel tanks in the wings, the nose tank removed. still 1500 lb. Gross Wt.

F-21B. The B version was an F-21A with 42 gallons of fuel in the wings and a metal belly skin and increased gross weight to 1750 lbs. And 200 lb. Baggage allowance.

F-22. With flaps, wider doors, revised fuselage fore & aft adjustable seats and a 118-hp engine, the F-21B became F-22.

F-22A. The F-22A is tri-gear version of the F-22.

F-22B. This model is the 180-hp version of the F-22. Fuel lines are ? in.

F-22C. The F-22C is a tri-gear version of the F-22B

I have the original copies of the Instructional Manual for B & B12 models (about 40 pages) and an original illustrated parts and price list (about 22 pages), both from the Taylorcraft Aviation Corp. If you are interested I could copy these and send them to you for copy and postage charges.
Carl E. Carson (oldtcraft@yahoo.com)

Univair and Wag-Aero have the complete manuals too!

Also try: ESSCO manuals

The Taylorcraft uses the NACA 23012 airfoil, it is a semi-symmetrical airfoil. The Taylor Cub wing had a flat bottom surface, which continued to be used by Piper for the J-3.

The University of Michigan Engineering Library has an extensive collection of NACA and NASA information on airfoils, and stall/spin research on microfilm. An example of this information is that a particular J3 that had its motor mount angled downward a few degrees to change the thrust line and it's elevator up travel limited. You could still do a 3-point landing, but stalls were no longer possible. No matter what the test pilot did, he could not force that particular J3 into a spin nor could he even get it to stall. No stall - no spin.

From the pre-WWII Taylorcraft archives: 'Speed-O-Laq' aircraft finishes out of St Paul Minn. Were used. These were all nitrate based and the 9340 'Taylorcraft Red' was the same as the Aeronca Red or Stearman Vermillion. The shade is between International Orange and Tennessee Red, being a lot closer to Inter Orange. This paint was used on all the Model As and probably some B models.

'Taylorcraft Poly' is blue and there were two shades of 'Olive drab' listed. There was also 'Super Flite' paint by Cooper Industries, Inc. These to my knowledge are the Randolph color chips of yesteryear. We find the true Diana Cream, Fairchild Blue which is also Taylorcraft Blue and Piper Blue, The Taylorcraft Red shows up there too. It matches the Speed-O-Laq chip. More will be done on this section ASAP.

The Taylorbird was the last design of C.G. Taylor. Kits were available from Robert Taylor of Taylor Aero Engineering. This design had no compound curves that the builder had to form. The design used a Subaru engine, was two place tandem, and claimed to cruise at 120 mph.

This plane was featured at the annual EAA fly-ins at Oshkosh back in the 1970's. Forrest Barber, the Executive Director of the Taylorcraft Foundation here in Alliance, Ohio used to own one.

The first Taylorcraft model A was built, designed and flown here in the States in 1936. A total of 356 planes were built here in 1937. The British connection started back when the Leicestershire Flying Club which operated from Rearsby Aerodrome imported a 40 HP Taylorcraft Model A. They also had three earlier 40HP Taylor 'Cubs'. Arthur Taylor, father of C.G. Taylor was born in England in 1870 in Nottingham then moved to Sheffield then to Canada in 1883 then on to Rochester, NY. This is documented by Chet Peek in the 'The Taylorcraft Story'.

The following information was recently communicated to us by John Gates from the other side of the great pond. Note that Forrest Barber, Executive Director of the Taylorcraft Foundation responded back to John Gates & checked with the Taylor family here and determined that this is a great family tale sent to us from England; however it could not be authenticated for many reasons. It is being presented here for comments to the Foundation through Forrest Barber.

History has it that Charles Gilbert Taylor and his brother Gordon designed and built aircraft in the USA in the late 1920's. After Gordon's death in a flying accident, C.G.Taylor formed a company with William Piper. The relationship was not a happy one and eventually William Piper took over control of the company with C.G.T as chairman. In 1936 the partnership became intolerable and C.G.T left the company.

The company became renamed as the Piper Aircraft Company. C.G.Taylor formed a new company and designed the aircraft known as the Taylorcraft model (A) manufactured by the Taylor-Young Airplane Co. Ohio. One such aircraft was bought to England where it was spotted by Lance Wilkes of the Leicestershire Flying Club. He acquired a license and in 1939 commenced building the aircraft at Thurmaston near Leicester.

The British army purchased a number of the aircraft and the company went on to become the Auster Aircraft Company in 1945. This company eventually ceased trading in 1969. My wife is the granddaughter of a Peter Richard Taylor, also sometime known as Peter Harold Taylor according to his army discharge papers. P.R.T was killed on the 7th January 1937 while testing a plane he had designed and built, and we have a number of newspaper cuttings announcing his death together with photographs of the aircraft. The cuttings refer to the aircraft having been built by 'Taylorcraft, the company which he owned in Leicester', yet this was probably before C.G.Taylor could have designed the aircraft, and a full two years before Lance Wilkes commenced building the aircraft in the UK. We have photographs of P.R.T with his aircraft in various stages of design and build, and standing beside a finished unit which looks remarkably like the model 'A'.

Family folklore has it that the model 'A' was originally designed and built in Leicester by P.R.T, and not by C.G.Taylor in the states. Some say that the designs were sold to C.G.T; others say that he stole the design after the fatal crash of P.R.T. who could not defend his copyright. I have tried to fathom the true story by writing to a number of sources including Taylorcraft in the USA but have not received any satisfying replies.

Perhaps you can shed some light on this curious matter or suggest any organization, which could help. It would be nice to lay the ghost of P.R.T and his Taylorcraft model 'A' before the remaining ageing relatives with fading memories depart this world.

-John Gates

Note: Interesting bit of folklore but there is complete documentation here in the U.S. that C.G. Taylor and others designed and built the first Taylorcraft Model A at Butler , Pa. in 1935-36. Chet Peeks Book the Taylorcraft Story has many sources.

There is no electrical system or starter on the C65 and earlier engines. The McDowell starter was a handle on the left side along the boot cowl with a cable. That pulled a ratchet that engaged a gear behind the prop. It would only pull the engine over top dead center, hence you needed to properly prime the engine and set the prop before climbing into cockpit. This system required at least one impulse magneto.

The front spruce spar measures 3/4 inch thick (+1/32, -0 inch tolerance) by 5-11/16 inches tall

The rear spruce spar is 5/8 inch thick and 4-3/8 inches tall.

For wood specifications grain, knots and moisture content refer to Advisory Circular AC43.13-2B on the FAA.gov website.

Aircraft Technical Support, Inc.

Jim & Dondi Miller; Poly-Fiber & Ceconite Distributors.

(Toll Free) (877) 877-3334; www.aircrafttechsupport.com

Gibson Aviation at 1.800.992.4880 gibsonavaition@msn.com.

The C-85 is approved for use provided all changes are made to upgrade to the BC12D-4-85.

Other engines such as the 0-200 will need field approvals.

Jack Gilberti was Chief Engineer at Taylorcraft, Conway, Pa and developed the 'Gilberti STC'. It was purchased by Robert Harer and became the 'Harer STC'. Robert Harer died in 2009 and the STC is owned by the estate of Robert Harer. As of February 2010, the STC is in limbo with the estate not responding to purchase requests.

This STC can be used to properly convert a T-craft into a BC12D-85, a BC12D-4-85 or a configuration 'equivalent' to a Model 19 (Type Certificate 1A9).

The STC was approved by Harer for individual airplanes only. The STC states the Model number, Serial number and the year built. After rebuilding, the STC must stay with the airplane and airplane documentation. This allows an increase in gross weight to 1500lbs.

It also allows the addition of an electrical system with starter, generator, battery, and if desired a Transponder and Mode C. This STC allows for a larger baggage compartment, rear windows, and an additional fuel vent system that ties the two wing tanks and the main tank together with the vent being placed in the wing fairing.

The Foundation has a complete copy set here in Alliance. Basicallly it takes a BC12D and makes it in to a BC12D-85 or BC12D-4-85 (TC 696) OR the 'Equivalent' of a Model 19 (TC1A9)

No, the L-2 or D model wires are the same as the BC12D wires (hence the D in BC12D).

New wires can be purchased at times from Univair (888) 433-5433.

These castle nuts that accommodate the AN4 bolt that holds the hubcaps on can be purchased from Skybound located in Georgia. Phone # 770-446-6797. They also carry some Shinn brake parts.

The part numbers and pictures in this publication are very valuable for rebuild reference. These first generation copy are available from Barber Aircraft Inc. 13820 Union Ave NE, Alliance, Oh 44601 330 823-1168 $14.50 includes two day S&H check, Visa or MC

This publication is available from Barber Aircraft Inc. 13820 Union Ave NE, Alliance, Oh 44601 $31.50 includes two day S&H check, Visa or MC

If you follow the FCC AC 41.13 guidelines, rather than the Taylorcraft factory methods, you will have a LOT of rib stitching to do. As determined from control surfaces with original factory fabric on them, the factory only used one stitch per rib on the ailerons with a diamond patch over it.

The vertical stabilizer has only two stitches in the top rib only, also with the diamond patch. Many people mistakenly stitch the lower rib and it really puckers the fabric and isn't necessary at all. I know some of the earlier Taylorcrafts were stitched on the second rib, but not the 46's.

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The rudder, elevator, and horizontal stabs had up to three stitches on the longer ribs, two on the medium length ribs and only one on the shorter ribs. These stitches were covered with 1' straight cut tape (not pinked). I was surprised by this but that is what one of the original elevators had on it from the factory. If you meet the standards of the factory the FAA will be satisfied.

Also, I found the factory used a small (1') patch where the drain grommets go and all they did was burn a small hole in them. No plastic grommets on the originals.

The BC12-D uses unshielded plugs and wires. To improve radio reception it is desirable to replace these with shielded wires and plugs. Modern shielded plugs and wires are significantly taller than the original, and for the top plugs require a bump outs rework to the original engine cowling. One idea is to use shielded plugs and wires only on the bottom set, and switch the magneto to this set during radio conversations. Another suggested alternative is to use Ercoupe Cups available from Fresno Airparts (559-237-4863). You have to turn the threads down to fit the standard shielded plug harness end.

The manual says to time Bendix magnetos at 30 degrees btdc for an A65. However, some old-timers use the 28 degrees on the left (no impulse) magneto.

For WOOD props check the Sensenich website go to installation, operation etc. Also get a copy of Service Bulletin # WSB-1 dated 7-13-99 on loss of prop torque.

Rock the airplane from the wing tip and watch the gear. If there is much movement (I prefer none, my opinion only) it may be time for shock cords. When I replace my shock cords I pick the best of the old cords and add one to each side over the new cords. It is stiff but does handle good. An alternate solution I think I heard about (Forrest?) is to use one F19 cord and one BC12D cord on each side. An old IA years ago told me to use wax paper under the cords to let them move better on the mounts. It has been suggested that bees wax works as well.

Comment from Forrest: the early B models use the 9090 cord. Later BC12D, 19 & the F-19 uses 9010, 9010HD, 9010HDX. Beyond that we used the 1110 cord for the 1750 Gross airplanes. I have used one 1110 combined with one 9010 HD on the BC12D, 19, & F-19 for a stiffer system and it seems to work real well.

I am replacing the wheel bearings on my BC12-D (Shinn wheels). I am having problems removing the inboard race. The race does not protrude inside the axel hole enough to punch it through from the out board side.

Take a common slot screwdriver and heat it at the tip end, put it in a vise and bend about 1/4' from the tip, let cool at room temp till you can touch it. Now put the flat tip between the race and the wheel, tap it and when it gives a little, go 180 degrees and repeat, then turn 90 degrees and do the same thing.

When you get a bit of a space in between the wheel and the race, turn it down on the workbench, put the screwdriver in the space and tap down on the handle, moving back and forth 180 degrees and then 90 degrees. This will work; I have one made and keep it in my toolbox for just this sort of situation.

A more drastic solution: If you are talking about the Timken cup and you are not trying to reuse it there is a way. It will destroy the cup but this works on Timken cups or on outer ball bearing races that are inside a housing. If you are proficient with an arc welder (if not hire someone you trust) weld a bead about 1/3 the way around the cup. Let it cool and it will fall out. This procedure shrinks the cup or race as the weld bead cools.

My mechanic told me to tighten up the two nuts on the back of the wheel. I know there is also a possibility that the brake cables may need tightening.

FIRST adjust the adjusters so there is no excessive movement & NO drag. Tighten up the upper and lower adjuster bolts a bit. It can make an amazing difference. But be careful that you don't get them so tight that they drag. It's best to jack the plane up so you can spin the wheel and feel for drag as you adjust the brake.

How much to tighten the upper vs. the lower? I put a couple of turns on each one, spin the wheel, then put another turn on each, recheck for drag, etc. These adjusters will sometimes stick and by jiggling it, the 'V' adjuster will return to a true position relative to the brake shoes. Pretty soon you will find that the top or bottom will begin to cause wheel drag. Back that one off a turn and continue to tighten the other until you get drag. Then back both bolts one to two turns. My experience has been to start with the linings slightly loose and adjust them tighter as they seat over a period of 2 or 3 weeks to get it perfect.

When everything is right, you should be able to just about run the engine at full throttle before the brakes begin to creep. If they run way out then you need linings. THEN pull the cables up so there is no play, there are 'bugs' just aft of the pedals to do this part. Check the pulleys and lube the system so the pulleys roll freely. If you ever replace the brake cables do it with 1/8' diameter cable if it has not been done already.

If you still have problems, consider replacing the linings. The grease seal for the wheel bearing is pretty poor, and you will eventually get grease on the old linings. I find that I seldom wear the linings out; I just change them when they begin to get impregnated with grease.

My logs indicate that in 1973 at Flightcraft, Inc of Portland, OR the prop was re-pitched to 45'. I believe the 45' pitch would be considered a normal prop for the BC12-D. A 43' pitch for better climb performance, and a 47' pitch for cruise. Your prop may have been re-pitched from one of these other numbers. My personal belief is that a 'cruise' prop really gives a false perception of increased performance. You lose a significant amount of take off and climb performance to pick up a small amount of cruise speed but in reality you are running your engine at a much higher manifold pressure to get the same RPM, thereby getting the extra speed. I am running a 74' x 43' metal McCauley prop on my A-65 and it performs at 90mph at 2100rpm. I get pretty good take off and climb performance and if I want to run the engine a little harder I get about 10mph indicated increase for each additional 100rpm. -- Jim Zangger.

Note from Forrest: I use the 72-42 Wood and the 74-45 Metal on mine. I cruise at 2200 rpm and get 97-98 mph on a BC12D, A-65 N43533

Well, after trying to avoid the almost inevitable, I am coming to the realization that I will have to fit a transponder to my L-2 if I want to have any reasonable area to fly within. I have a wind generator that I have not installed, as I am told that it would slow the airplane significantly. I will certainly need a battery. I don't like the idea of having acid that can leak or spill in my aircraft. Gel cell would be an option, but I hear they are expensive.

Your question about airspeed with a wind generator, I fly a 1940 B-65 with a wind generator and normal flight airspeed indicates between 90 & 95. Of course, there are variable, but it performs, no different, than the BC-12D that I had before this one. zookie, Theodosia, MO #N26658

I have run across several people who install a small gel cell battery and charge it with a solar panel on top of the instrument panel. In Florida I would think you would have enough sunshine to take full advantage of the solar panels. It saves a lot of weight. A local flight school flies two Piper Cubs with electric starters and radios, but no generators. They take the battery out every evening and charge them on a regular battery charger overnight.

Private pilot aircraft owners are permitted to perform preventative maintenance on their certified aircraft. These permitted tasks such as changing oil, or spark plugs are outlined in FAA 43.xx. Adding or removing equipment is not part of this rule, and must be signed off by an A&P or I.A.

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An A&P will not arbitrarily modify a certified aircraft without following some precedent. These rules are in place to maximize safety and minimize litigation exposure. To keep your production aircrafts value, the most important thing is to document everything properly. Keeping a certified aircraft records properly signed off also protects the aircraft owner from legal action even after the aircraft has been sold.

Major modifications to a certified airplane require FAA form 337 to be completed. This form is simply a description of the work filed by the A&P that is kept with the aircraft registration files with the FAA. An example might be the recovering of the aircraft. Aircraft owners normally keep excellent maintenance records and pass these on to the new owner, however, in cases where the owner records are lost, the 337s for that aircraft are on file with the FAA in Oklahoma.

An FAA Field Approval is where the A&P puts his career on the line, stating that a modification does not compromise safety. Needless to say, these types of approvals will be very conservative. When an A&P fixes something he is responsible for everything that was done to it up to that time. Don't think you are smart if you have modified something and it gets by the IA on the annual inspection. It will be discovered when you crash and the IA may be held responsible.

When it is desirable to modify a certified aircraft from the original Type Certificate the STC process may be used. This process involves expensive testing and paperwork. An example is an STC to use auto gas in an engine that was originally approved for aviation fuel. A company or organization that works to obtain an STC will generally charge an individual for the right to apply this STC to their airplane. Another example of an STC is the modification necessary to upgrade an early model aircraft to the equivalent of a later model.

This is the best description I have ever seen! Edited by Forrest Barber. Many Thanks to Bill Weiser

Certified aircraft requires FAA approved aircraft parts. According to the FAA there are 11 ways that approved parts can be produced. (from FAA Aviation News July/Aug 2001):

1. Produced in accordance with a Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA)
2. Produced in accordance with a Technical Standard Order Authorization (TSOA)
3. Produced during the Type Certificate (TC) or Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
4. Produced under a TC and an Approved Production Inspection Systems (APIS)
5. Produced under a Production Certificate (PC).
6. Produced in a foreign country and accepted by the FAA in accordance with a bilateral agreement.
7. Approved in any other manner by the FAA.
8. Standard parts that conform to established industry or US specifications
9. Owner/operator produced parts (section 21.303(b)(2) and section 65.81)
10. Parts manufactured by a repair station or other authorized person during alteration in accordance with an STC or Field Approval.
11. Fabricated by a qualified person in the course of repair for the purpose of returning a TC product to service.

Given these regulations, the Taylorcraft owner can fabricate parts to maintain their own aircraft, but are not permitted to manufacture these parts for sale to others.

No, however, the owner must considered the producer of the part by participating in controlling the design, manufacture or quality of the part such as:

1. Provide the manufacturer with the design or performance data from which to make the part, or
2. Provide the manufacturer with the materials to make the part, or
3. Provide the manufacturer with the fabrication processes or assembly methods to make the part, or
4. Provide the quality control procedures to make the part, or
5. Personally supervise the manufacturing of the part.

Yes, as long as the owner participated in one of the five functions above. The manufacturer does not have to be certified.

The answer would be no, if it was found that the owner participated in controlling the design, manufacturer, or quality of the part. The mechanic would be considered the producer and would not be in violation of section 21.303(a).

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They must ensure that the owner-produced part meets form, fit and function and, within reasonable limits, ensure that the part does meet its approved type design (e.g. like looking at the approved data used to make the part). The A&P should NOT make a logbook or maintenance entry that he or she made a part under their certificate number. However, the mechanic can say on the work order that they helped manufacture an owner-produced part under section 21.303(b)(2).

Second, the owner or operator should make a logbook entry that is similar to section 3.9 maintenance entry that states: The part is identified as an owner produced part under section 21.303(b)(2). The part was manufactured in accordance with approved data. The owner/operators participation in the manufacturer of the part is identified, such as quality control. The owner must declare that the part is airworthy and sign and date the entry. The mechanic then installs the part on the aircraft, makes

For that aircraft that the manufacturer is no longer supporting the continuing airworthiness of, the owner or operator can petition the FAA Aircraft Certification Directorate under the Freedom of Information Act for the data on how the part was made. Or the owner or operator can reverse engineer the part and have the data approved under a FAA field approval or, if it is a really complicated part, have the data approved by a FAA engineer or FAA Designated Engineering Representative.

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Unless the part is no longer air-worthy, the original owner produced part stays on the aircraft.