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Shillelagh’s fuselage and tail section have been test-fitted together. Photo via AirCorps Aviation
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From an original article by Chuck Cravens
Since the last update in January 2023 (HERE), significant changes have taken place in the P-51B MustangShillelagh restoration project conducted by AirCorps Aviation. The most notable development is the transfer of ownership from the Wings of the North Museum in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, to the Dakota Territory Air Museum in Minot, North Dakota. AirCorps Aviation has published a blog entry at this LINK.
After checking the fit, the forward and rear fuselage sections are separated to allow easier access for equipment installation.
During the transition, the project remained relatively dormant for a year, but restoration efforts have now resumed. One of the most remarkable aspects of this restoration is the use of numerous new, original, never-installed components—often referred to as “new-old-stock” (NOS) parts. While these components were not part of the original 102-106602 airframe flown by Captains O’Hara and Dahlberg over France, they are genuine North American Aviation-produced parts, ensuring historical accuracy and authenticity.
The throttle quadrant carries the signature of legendary P-51 triple ace Brig. Gen. Clarence “Bud” Anderson. It is meant to honor his service and his support for EAA Warbirds over many years.
Some of the key NOS and original surplus assemblies incorporated into the restoration include the windshield, throttle quadrant, engine mount, forward air intake “smile,” exit duct and exit door, scoop, flap control linkage, rudder, one elevator, radiator cover skins, trim pedestal, doghouse, flaps, ailerons, landing gear, wheels and brakes, top and lower cowlings, cowl bows and formers, coolant and oil door, tailwheel assembly, vertical stabilizer, and nearly the entire induction system.
The tail section mates perfectly with the forward fuselage.
Before the temporary halt in restoration, the fuselage structural framework had been completed and painted. Since work resumed, most fuselage skins have been fabricated and riveted to the frame. The horizontal and vertical stabilizers have also been completed and attached to the tail section. Fixtures have been created or assembled, spars and ribs have been fabricated or restored, and all have been painted in preparation for the next major milestone—the assembly of Shillelagh’s wings. The wings are now taking shape, marking a significant step forward in bringing this historic aircraft back to life.
The main spar has been painted and returned to the restoration shop. Photo via AirCorps Aviation
For more details and additional restoration photos, AirCorps Aviation has published an in-depth update by Chuck Cravens, which is available at THIS LINK.Later, in August 1944, the paint scheme was used after touch-up and nose art with spelling change.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
