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Culver NC41705 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Culver Cadet qualify as a light sport aircraft?
No! The Cadet has retractable gear which is not allowed on light sport aircraft.
Is the Cadet aerobatic, I have heard that it is approved for light aerobatics?
No!. The airplane when originally certified was approved for some limited aerobatics, including rolls, loops, split-S, and snap rolls. In the late thirties and early 40's some pilots did use them for airshow performances. Edna White, actually used three for airshow work. The aircraft was very clean for its day and after several accidents involving poorly trained pilots the factory removed the aerobatic approval. The TCD was ammended and prohibits any intentional aerobatics or instrument flight.
Are airframe parts available for the Cadet?
The airframe is constructed of wood and steel much like many homebuilt airplanes. It uses no castings or heatreated parts. Most all parts for the cadet could be made in the field if needed.
Who owns the type certificate for the Cadet?
The type certificate is currently owned by the Antique Aircraft Association. They have a owners group and can supply some airframe parts.
Is the Cadet difficult to fly?
No, but, the Cadet is not a trainer, the aircraft requires an experienced tailwheel pilot.
Is the aircraft difficult to maintane?
No, but it is wood and MUST be hangered. This aircraft is easy to inspect and routine maintenance is simple.
The aircraft is over 60 years old, what about the glue?
The aircraft is very easy to inspect, if the aircraft is kept dry and stored inside the glue joints will not be a problem. The wood does not fatigue with age as metal does, so the condition of the aircraft can be determined by visual inspection. Culver used the most advanced glues of the day and Culver aircraft have not experienced any of the problems associated with the later wood wing mooney aircraft. All aircraft wiring was replaced in 1990 with new, aircraft grade wire. The brakes have been replaced with modern cleveland brakes.
How much runway is required for the aircraft?
I fly the aircraft from a 2400 ft grass strip. This airport has no obstructions and I would consider it marginal with two people on board in hot weather,(95 or above). The aircraft does have 5.00 x 4 maingear, so the strip needs to be smooth. The Cadet is not an off airport aircraft.
The rudder seems very small, how does it handle crosswinds?
The aircraft has very authoritative controls and with the stearable tailwheel handles crosswinds very well.
Is it approved for auto fuel?
No!