QUOTE: Allan: Per our research PAF T-28As (and Ds) contained a hodge-podge of parts coming from different variants. |
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I know, finding an *off the assembly line* type Trojan was about as rare as finding an combat worn M-1 Garand with matching serial numbers! [:0]
Most of the "A" Models had the low profile type canopy, without the roll bar, even before the "B" Models were introduced, because there was an increase of 10kts TAS with the low canopy installation, plus it afforded the IP a much better view. 10 extra knots and a better view in a Training aircraft, is quite a valuable advantage, especially when it involved something as minor as a canopy change.
Here's a picture of "Ellie II" at Ft. Bragg, while photographing some parachute test.
After the aircraft were retired in 1986, #747 was donated to the Army Aviation Museum at Rucker...... when I was down there last year, I ask the curator where it was, and he took me out to the old T-Hangars beside the museum, where I saw "Ellie II" sitting with flat tires and about 3" of dust covering her once brilliant finish.
So sad.
Take care,
Frank