Photos and Commentary

Waco nearly complete, flight testing next

Nov. 4 � Last report we indicated the Waco was completed at Rare Aircraft. Well, almost. As many of you know, it wasn't done quite in time for AOPA Expo in Palm Springs, California, so a substitute Waco UPF-7 made the trip instead. That airplane, after a weather delay on the way home, is now back with its owner in Colorado. The AOPA Waco has completed adjustments and alignments to its gear so that it will track straight. The engine is completely hooked up. However, the field approval for the Cleveland wheels and brakes has not come through, so brake lines have not been connected. However, the wheels and brakes are installed. Little details, like the GPS antenna and small amounts of leather work, are nearly completed. Once it is pronounced ready, flight testing can begin. It will probably be flight tested for up to five hours to determine what additional adjustments are needed. After that, it will spend the winter in Owatonna, Minnesota, before coming to AOPA headquarters in Frederick, Maryland.