SB2C-5 Helldiver Soars In Time For AirVenture | Fagen Fighters Restorations
The impressive 17-year restoration of the SB2C-5 Helldiver by Fagen Fighters Restoration was an extensive and challenging endeavor that required meticulous attention to detail along with a deep commitment to preserving the rich history of World War II aviation. Each component of the aircraft, including the intricate systems and structural elements, was carefully evaluated, repaired, replaced, or rebuilt, which often involved complex processes designed to maintain authenticity to its original design. The journey included overcoming numerous obstacles, ranging from sourcing rare and oftentimes hard-to-find parts to ensuring that every facet of the restoration met stringent industry standards for quality and heritage. Ultimately, the dedicated effort culminated in a stunningly restored Curtiss Helldiver that not only honors its significant historical contribution but also beautifully showcases the dedication and exceptional craftsmanship of all those involved in the project. The remarkable transformation of the Helldiver stands as a true testament to the persistence, hard work, and passion inherent in aviation preservation by our dedicated team.
More about the history of Bureau Number 83393
This SB2C-5 Helldiver, with Bureau Number 83393, rolled off the assembly line and was officially accepted by the U.S. Navy at the naval facility in New Port, Rhode Island on May 3, 1945. The very next day, on May 4, it was dispatched to the Naval Air Facility in Dahlgren, Virginia for essential training purposes. On July 24, 1945, the aircraft, along with its crew, took to the skies for a scheduled training mission. However, during the climb, the aircraft suddenly lost power. The pilot promptly radioed the control tower to request a go-around, but ultimately had to execute a controlled emergency landing in the nearby woods. Unfortunately, the aircraft was scrapped by the Navy shortly thereafter on July 31, 1945.
After many long years of sitting in storage, the Fagen family made the significant decision to purchase the wreck in 2006, driven by their dedicated mission to meticulously restore the Helldiver to a fully airworthy condition once again. Upon its purchase, the fuselage was promptly sent out for immediate rebuilding at Wichita Air Service, which is located in Wichita, Kansas. By 2008, after extensive work, the Helldiver finally arrived in Granite Falls, Minnesota, where the intricate restoration process would continue for the next several years. In the year 2020, Tri-State Aviation in Wahpeton, North Dakota successfully completed the critical center section, and shortly afterwards, they began diligent work on the outer wings. Fagen Fighters Restoration performed the majority of the extensive work in-house, including essential tasks such as machining many necessary parts, fitting the fuselage, mating the newly completed center section with the fuselage, installing all major systems, as well as the engine and propeller. They also celebrated the successful completion of the wings, followed by the meticulous painting and final assembly of the aircraft. Regrettably, after the conclusion of World War II, the overwhelming majority of Helldivers were scrapped, leading to very few examples surviving to this day. Currently, there is only one other Helldiver flying, which is part of the esteemed Commemorative Air Force located in Texas. As of today, this thoughtfully restored aircraft stands as the second flying Helldiver in the world, serving as a remarkable testament to its enduring historical significance.
