By William Goebel – “Hollywood Bomber” Crew Chief
Progress continues on the return-to-flight program of the 1954 Beechcraft E18S-9700 “Super 18,” known as the Hollywood Bomber. The aircraft is undergoing an extensive restoration at the Vintage Flying Museum (VFM) at Meacham International Airport (FTW) north of Fort Worth, Texas. The final months of 2024 have been a period of intense activity, with significant milestones achieved. Both engines have been run successfully, with no major issues reported. Some gauge-related challenges were identified and have since been resolved.
While fuel system issues persist, the restoration team is systematically addressing them. The problematic main tank is undergoing final weld repair and leak testing. New CiES fuel senders and Aerospace Logic gauging are currently being wired and operationally checked, and the team is pleased with the performance of this fuel system gauging solution. The fuel tank covers have also begun permanent installation following final painting. The aircraft’s wings have been permanently reinstalled. Fabric patches are being applied to the aileron and flap coves, a common practice for Beechcraft of this era to prevent debris or wildlife from entering the structure. The replacement flap has been inspected, alodined, primed, and painted, and the permanent installation of ailerons and flaps is scheduled in the coming weeks.
Inside the aircraft, the pilot and copilot seats have been completed and reinstalled. The replacement cabin floors are finished but await spar strap installation before being permanently fitted. Passenger seats are under construction at two different sites, with an expected completion timeline of one to two months.
The cockpit remains a work in progress but is approximately 90% complete. Only a few final details remain to complete the avionics wiring. All antenna cabling has been installed and terminated, and the avionics stack is currently being powered up and undergoing system checks. Once the cockpit wiring is finalized, the nose section will be reinstalled with all-new hardware. The project has also benefited from the support of Kaman Cleveland, which provided the Cleveland STC wheel assembly. This upgrade will enhance tire and tube availability, with the unit installed using an easily sourced 5.00-5 tire and tube.
Several taxi tests have been conducted. The initial test required an airport escort due to the absence of operational radios, while power tests were limited due to tachometer and manifold pressure gauge issues. A subsequent test was performed autonomously with the radios powered up. However, a stuck start relay on the number one engine led to a failure of the starter, prompting the replacement of both start relays with new components. “Starter engaged” indicator lights are present but have yet to be connected. Despite this setback, multiple systems, including propeller feathering and unfeathering operations, were successfully evaluated.
The restoration team remains focused on bringing the aircraft to Sun ‘n Fun and AirVenture in 2025, with the goal of beginning initial flight shakedown tests in April. Project progress is documented through weekly video updates on the HangaRatz YouTube channel, which provides a straightforward, drama-free look at the restoration process. The museum extends its gratitude to supporters who have contributed to making this project possible, aiming to deliver a reliable aircraft to the aviation community. For those interested in supporting the restoration, donations can be made at www.vintageflyingmuseum.org. The team can also be contacted directly via email HERE.
I made many skydives from this model aircraft to include a C-45 to civilian models of this type such as a nose wheel H18. Seeing the open doorway reminded me of getting out at 12,500′ having fun. As a retired A&P this restoration is a great result on the part of the folks doing the work and they should be congratulated for bringing another old bird back to flying trim.