G'Day Thought it was time I introduced myself. As a new Coupe owner I recently found this group through Dave's page (thanks Dave) and have found it most useful and enlightening.
I am based in Melbourne, Australia, and purchased last January, Ercoupe 415C S/No 3247-6-12 ex N2465H. I purchased this coupe from my LAME (Licensed Aircraft Engineer) who does regular trips to the US to bring back aircraft for sale or restoration. In the past he has concentrated on the Cessna range for modern types and Stinsons, Pipers etc for the classic range. This Ercoupe attracted his attention at an airport near SF and the price was right so there we are. I have been flying for over 30 years and held commercial and instructor ratings, and 10 years ago completed a Sonerai II homebuilt which I have had an absolute ball in. However its not a lot of fun for my "better half" and when I saw the Coupe sitting in the hangar I just had to have it. I really like the appearance and with the side by side seating and ability to open the canopy it had all the features to please "she who shall be obeyed" respectfully known as Irene. I must admit Irene is a very tolerant woman considering she is not a aviation enthusiast. I am currently giving it a full restoration even though its in good condition and with the experience building the Sonerai, ie metal, fabric etc the project is not daunting in the slightest. The coupe has most of the mods such as dual fork nose gear, 85HP engine, wing inspection (new fabric), rudder reinforcing etc. There are only three coupes in Australia that I am aware of. Both of the others are flying and in mint condition. In fact one of them was bought new from Forney and was used by Sydney technical school for airframe training so never flew until a couple of years ago when the current owner bought it in bits and reassembled it. Can you imagine a coupe that was flown in the 90's with zero hours? I am sure as I progress I will have plenty of questions and just know I am going to enjoy this experience. Brian Garrett 5 O'Donnell St Viewbank 3084 Australia (613) 9459 1779
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