EAA Sport Aviation - December 2009

This gleaming Lycoming was built and pickled eight years before it would become the heart of Firebolt N4GW.

The fit and finish reflects the attention paid by a skilled builder out to impress his mentor and the judges.

Powering Up

True to form, George had the engine built for the Firebolt about eight years before he needed it. The engine had been pickled in oil for years. George mentioned to Chris that he would love to hear it run, but both men knew that starting it at this point in the construction would cover the sheet metal with oil, potentially ruining any future paint plans. George was resigned to never having the opportunity to hear the powerful purr. Chris was not so willing to give up on the opportunity to bring a smile to George’s face. He decided to remove the sheet metal and have an engine-starting party in George’s honor. There was one catch. To be a genuine celebration, the moment that George heard the engine run had to be the first time it ever ran. There would be no test firing.

For three weeks George and Chris routed controls and configured fuel lines. Then, to minimize the chance of a failed start, Chris assembled three engine mechanics and supervised a long session of final adjustments. On the big day, George sat in front of the airplane surrounded by dozens of friends and family who had been involved with the project along the way. The starter was engaged, and in only four blades the Lycoming roared to life. Chris recalls, “George sat there in his chair with his arms folded. When the engine caught he grinned from ear to ear—it ran like a scalded dog.”

After the successful start, Chris and George toasted the success and shared the afternoon with some friends. Six weeks later, George was gone, but his friendship and teaching continued to guide Chris as he completed the project. Chris’ goal was clear and remained unchanged from George’s original vision: finish the airplane in time to wow the judges at Oshkosh.