Catch it while you can. I suspect that, in common with several restorations from the same source, it may not be destined to have a lengthy flying career.

Why would that be????

Interesting – apparently the group i’m a member of (http://www.thegreatwarsociety.com) was approached and the museum sounded very keen but then went silent….. shame, as we could have provided numbers of RFC and WW1 British Infantry with demonstrations etc

That sounds familiar, we had been approached a long while ago and all looked good and they were very keen, and then nothing!!
As it was we were other wise engaged at No2 Sqn at Marham:)

In a word, yes – the gear is selected down by pushing the selector lever forward, then across towards the centre of the aircraft, then smartly down to actuate the hydraulics to bring the gear down. The selector also has a chain drive to the up locks, which will jam if the procedure isn’t carried out correctly. The lever should always be held forward for a moment to take the weight off the locks before selecting down.

I suspect that was the problem.

Once the gear is jammed, it ought to be possible to reselect by applying negative ‘G’, or putting the aircraft on its back, then selecting whilst the chains and cables are slack, but it may not always work!

My post above suggested the damage to be expected – looks like I was about right; though I think I can see a bit of flap and fairing damage too.

Bruce

Thanks Bruce that all makes sense, I have heard of the up locks jamming before but wasnt aware it could be pilot induced!!

How s it possible for the pilot to get the gear stuck?? Is there a procedure that if done incorrectly gets the gear stuck up ?

Indeed it is Andy and No2 are very proud of their history and certainly are not forgeting it in any way, as you can see the Centennial Scheme bears Rhodes- Moorhouse’s name under the cockpit.
Also in 2015 keep your eye’s peeled for a change of Scheme for “Biggles Biplane” 😉

A great wekend and as L&s said we were proud to be invited to be part of it. Many thanks to all at No2 Sqn for their hospitality.

I take it thats Mr Hackett in the front with another member of the Yakolevs in the back, bonedomes give it away!:)

What sad news:( As many others I only knew him from Ice Pilots but he seemed a great guy with huge experience, Had not realised he was batteling the big C. Thoughts as always with the famly and extended familly at Buffalo. Blue skies Arnie.