RCAF Lancaster KB882 Update

Just returned from my work days in Edmundston, NB on Lanc KB882. Today, July 14th, is the 42nd anniversary of KB882 landing in Edmundston. Much to report…pics to follow very soon but here’s the quick list of accomplishments:

1. All engine cowlings removed, cleaned, some painted zinc oxide to help preserve until full paint can be applied.

2. Engines cleaned and photographed to identify missing components – #3 & #4 engines missing mags, ignition looms, fuel system items, some cooling, electrical and hydraulic parts etc…aside from that everything else is in place as she landed 42 years ago. GOOD news is that #1 & #2 appear to be 100% complete – nothing disconnected or missing.

3. Bomb bay doors opened for the fiirst time in nearly four decades. Long range fuel tanks were removed, we believe this was done when it was sold to reduce weight for final flight. No “missed” spares remain…damn! Power washed to remove minimal dirt & bird nests.

4. All remaining accessable openings have been sealed with wire to further reduce bird infestation.

5. Spinners removed and bird nests cleaned out. Then all 4 received good sanding and RCAF red colour matched and resprayed…the look great! Interesting note that on #4 we had the thrill of discovering 3 live and well American Hawk young still residing inside. All flew away without incident. Propellers all scraped, sanded and then painted. Now that their back together they really look the business!

6. We received a display case donated by one of the volunteers. Plans to put it in the airport building to create a proper KB882 information/display that will be available to the public by Fall 2006.

7. FIRST PUBLIC DONATION RECEIVED!!! A couple of vacationers were so taken by our conversation and preservation plans they left $20.00. It has to start somewhere and now it has!

8. Edmundston City council has made the commitment I’ve been waiting for for over two years – as of this week there is an official Lancaster Board. Next week they vote on a initial amount of money to provide a springboard so that proper fundraising, networking and marketing can finally begin.

9. Note to above: KB882 information brochure now in the works, Available Fall 2006.

10. First major project has been agreed upon – I will oversee and organize the cockpit canopy reconstruction. Hope to have complete Spring 2007.

That’s all for now, promise to have pics next few days.

Cheers,
Troy Kirkby
RCAF Lancaster KB882 Restoration Team Leader

PS – Send money!!!!! lol