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Restoration Photos
Recovery - Rehome - Restoration
Please feel free to browse through the photos below. Make images bigger with a CLICK..
This page is set to grow so if you have any other photos to share we would be delighted to display and accredit them.
If you would like to help with the restoration with time, expertise or even spares, then just contact us at Derby Aero Club.
Recovery
The G-APNZ was recovered in March 2013 from Headcorn Aerodrome Kent UK. Headcorn is the home of the world famous Tiger Club to which the PNZ belonged for 35 years.
Locating all of the various parts of PNZ was not straightforward as over the years bits and pieces had been mixed, moved or buried among accumulating aviation spares. At the time, the Derby recovery team did not think much could be salvaged from these particular items.
Photo shows Jerry Knight who kindly donated the PNZ for restoration at Derby Airfield. Ian Harrison, driver and provider of the trailer, and John Theron (in red)
Ian Harrison and Jerry Knight with the world famous Tiger Club visible in the background.
Ian Harrison had specially modified the trailer, extending it to take the length of the PNZ wings and ensuring it complied with rules for transporting the load on the long journey back to Derby Airfield.
You can just see the tips of the elevators.
The PNZ safely in its new home at Derby Airfield
The Derby Aero Club recovery team arrived back unscathed after a very long day driving the 350 miles round trip.
The PNZ engine cowling is just visible (and Ian Harrison's right arm).
You can see two engine crank cases, carburetors and various 'mixed tackle '. Old tyres provided extra 'padding' during transport.
The fuselage: condition as recovered. Jerry Knight who donated the PNZ had started the restoration some years earlier, unfortunately, work had to be abandoned.
Recovered parts inspected and stored in temporary workshop while new facilities being completed
Temporary storage/ workshop at Derby Airfield awaiting rehousing in new workshop facilities.
Both youngsters are also helping with the restoration of the famous Comet Racer - fuselage in the background.
Looking at plans and an aileron in the temporary workshop.
N.B. In the background you can clearly see the fuselage of another important restoration project. It is the famous British racing plane, the Comet Racer,"Black Magic" which was flown by the young aviatrix Amy Johnson.
Looking at plans in the temporary workshop.
N.B. In the background you can clearly see the fuselage of another important restoration project. It is the famous British racing plane, the Comet Racer,"Black Magic" which was flown by the young aviatrix Amy Johnson.
The Aeromodeller magazine provided a planning service that was much in demand by enthusiasts. Here you can see a balsa wood model of a Druine D.31 Turbulent. The original cost was 3 shillings - 15 pence.
Amazing to find that the picture on the box is the G-APNZ (7). This kit was purchased 2014 from Ebay.
Condition as recovered from Headcorn Aerodrome UK.
It looked reasonably complete but it will be stripped and inspected fully before painting. in particular ,the telescopic struts and links will be measured for signs of wear
Note: the engine on the floor was previously acquired but was 'too big . VW Camper Van enthusiasts should easily recognise it.
Whilst young volunteers are learning new skills they are carefully supervised by senior and expert technical staff and volunteers.
Note: bottom right other engine parts belonging to an old Gypsy Queen.
Induction pipes on the D.31 are exposed and can get very cold.Specially designed, oil heated induction pipes minimise the risk of carburettor icing.