CAF P-47N Thunderbolt – Restoration Update – Summer 2024

Last summer, we ran an article describing the arrival of the Commemorative Air Force’s partially rebuilt P-47N Thunderbolt (s/n 44-89136) at CAF Airbase Georgia. Since that date, the organization’s highly accomplished restoration team at Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Georgia has dug into the airframe. The following details describe some of what they have already accomplished in their quest to return the WWII fighter back to airworthy condition. While this particular P-47 arrived too late to see service overseas in WWII, it does have a fairly interesting post-war service history with the Guatemalan Air Force, which we shared in a great story in December, 2016.

Randy Hawkins, the Maintenance Officer at CAF Airbase Georgia, shared insights into the complex restoration of Republic P-47N Thunderbolt 44-89136. Reflecting on the challenges his team faced, Hawkins explained that one of the main tasks was assessing the condition of the aircraft prior to their involvement. A significant challenge was understanding what had been previously disassembled, often left incomplete by others. This deep dive was critical for establishing restoration goals and identifying key areas that needed attention, such as sheet metal work that required specialized parts and tools. One of the major issues was the left wing leading edge, which contained integral fuel tanks. Hawkins noted that the wing was original, but for unknown reasons, someone had disassembled it, leaving the ribs and skins in disarray. Air Corps, a trusted partner in the restoration process, was contacted to assist with manufacturing the necessary parts. Though there was no clear timeline, they assured their ability to help.   In addition to the wing, smaller tasks were addressed, such as repairing damaged gun bays and ammunition areas. The team also managed to fix an old hangar damage from a few years ago, caused by a forklift that had damaged the forward fuselage. These repairs were quickly managed, adhering to the aircraft’s structural repair manual (SRM) guidelines, which remain relevant even though they were originally designed for combat readiness. The restoration also involved fitting critical parts for the landing gear and preparing to reattach the wings. Hawkins highlighted the importance of getting the landing gear operational—not only for functional reasons but also to make the aircraft more visually impressive to visitors. He admitted that a fully assembled aircraft would have a stronger “wow factor” for those unfamiliar with aviation, which was an ongoing motivation for the team. As the restoration progressed, the team worked closely with Air Corps, especially when it came to intricate metalwork and fabricating rare parts like latching systems for the gun and ammo bay doors. Despite some delays, due in part to Air Corps’ involvement in other projects, the partnership remained productive, and parts were gradually obtained and installed. Hawkins also explained the careful sequence required in assembling certain parts. For example, wing components needed to be installed in a specific order, with some items, such as flight controls, being held off until later stages of the restoration. A notable moment in the project involved transporting parts, including the cowling and flaps, to Air Corps for further work. The collaboration between CAF Airbase Georgia and Air Corps has been essential in the restoration, and they continue to work on a priority list that will ensure the aircraft is restored to its former glory. Hawkins praised the efforts of his team, noting that some members, such as Dennis Beach, had been putting in countless hours to move the project forward. Even while some were away on much-needed vacations, the work continued. For example, Steve Schenkel had been working on the tail wheel, discovering and addressing issues like missing metering pins, essential for the aircraft’s shock absorption system. In addition to the mechanical work, efforts were underway to rebuild the aircraft’s wiring systems. Hawkins highlighted that while wiring can seem daunting, it’s a manageable task, and the team has been making steady progress, with some members even constructing custom harness boards to assist in the process.   In conclusion, the restoration of the P-47N Thunderbolt is a complex and ongoing project, with numerous moving parts and challenges to overcome. However, through collaboration, determination, and a methodical approach, the team at CAF Airbase Georgia is steadily bringing this historic aircraft back to life. To support this restoration, visit airbasegeorgia.org Here is the latest video update