Waco - Waco CTO Taperwing

About Waco - Waco CTO Taperwing

The Waco CTO Taperwing (NC657N) is a remarkable biplane from aviation's golden age, built in 1929. Known for its distinctive tapered wings, this aircraft was considered a high-performance machine of its time, captivating enthusiasts with its speed and agility. Its classic biplane design provides a unique flying experience, evoking the early days of aviation. This particular model, with serial number 3166, is a rare survivor, with only a few believed to be still flying today. Powered by a robust Wright J-6-7 radial engine producing 225 horsepower, the Waco CTO Taperwing offered impressive performance for its era. It was often utilized for air racing, aerobatics, and recreational flying by those seeking an exhilarating flight experience. The aircraft's sturdy construction and inherent stability made it a favorite among experienced pilots. Its historical significance and rarity make it a prized possession for collectors and a true showpiece at airshows, representing a pivotal time in aircraft design and engineering. THE RESTORATION Restored by Frank Pavliga between 1996-2003. From the beginning the restoration was directed towards returning the airplane to its original model CTO Taperwing configuration and conformity to ATC 257. A new Taperwing set of wings were built… four wing panels, center section and four ailerons using original hardware and brace wires. All new wood – Sitka Spruce. The fuselage was rebuilt to original, (Waco drawing 7) The original fuselage control system was utilized The following new parts, assemblies and structures were built to print: Stabilizer, elevators, vertical fin and rudder Taperwing strut set Landing gear vees Seats, front & rear Fuel & oil tanks All fuselage wood: Formers, stringers, floor panels Aluminum bulkheads for fuselage cowling, aft passenger cockpit & fascia panel, instrument panel Firewall Fuselage external sheet metal and engine cowling The Wright J6-7 was replaced with an approved Wright R760-8 This engine is identical to original plus having accommodation for electrical accessories. This engine was used by Waco in the later Taperwing and Straightwing models, and was approved with FAA certification. The following approved installations were made for safety and operation in the modern airspace environment: Tailskid replaced with tailwheel Original sleeve bearing wheels replaced with ball bearing models The aircraft was covered with the Ceconite system using the approved nitrate/butyrate system. The finish coats are original butyrate pigmented dope. The original pictures clearly show the paint & trim style, which was accurately duplicated The aircraft underwent a conformity inspection on May 21, 2003 and received a Standard Airworthiness Certificate as a Waco model CTO on that date Bendix 30 x 5 wheels (N3N) Vultee BT-15 brakes Cleveland 10-24D master cylinders Scott 3200 tailwheel Eclipse starter type F-141

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