F-105 static display receives new fiberglass parts

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Frances Locquiao
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  In preparation for display at Moody's future Heritage Park, parts from one of the static aircraft were recently replaced prior to receiving a new coat of paint.

Several parts of an F-105 Thunderchief aircraft, made with a magnesium-thorium alloy, are being replaced because of their susceptibility to rapid corrosion.

"Back when the aircraft was operational, it was not a problem because it was receiving daily maintenance," said Mike Douglass, National Museum of the United States Air Force exhibits specialist. "Now that it will be used for display, we want to make sure it withstands environmental factors such as weather, and that it is easier to maintain."

Since the F-105 belongs to the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, it requires special maintenance from trained experts.

"We are responsible for oversight, proper care and maintenance of each aircraft that belongs to the museum," said Mr. Douglass. "That's why I was sent to help in the restoration of the F-105."

During the restoration, removed components of the F-105 will be replaced with fiberglass.

"We used fiberglass because it does not corrode easily," said Mr. Douglass. "The parts will be made to be the exact duplicates, so most of the people who will be viewing the aircraft would not be able to tell the difference."

In addition to preventing corrosion, the parts were removed to eliminate future hazards.

"A low-level presence of radioactive energy was detected in the metal alloy," said Benton Wilmoth, 88th Civil Engineering Squadron radiation safety specialist. "Although it naturally occurs, it does not pose a danger to us, but we wanted to eliminate the chance of potential hazards."

After the team replaces the magnesium-thorium alloy with fiberglass, the 23rd Equipment Maintenance Squadron Fabrication Flight will paint the aircraft its original color along with the famous tiger shark teeth, with an estimated completion date of May 14.

It will then be moved to the Flying Tiger's future Heritage Park that will be located directly behind the Parker Greene Base Support Center. The park will include other static displays of aircraft as well as a ceremonial plaza and parade ground.