[Captain Eddie]

Thanks for the pics, MD! I don't suppose any of the pieces are on display at this time, are they?

[mustangdriver]

Nothing is really on display, but you can sign up for the restoration shop tour, and they will take you over, and show you everything.

[Tundra04]

MD,

Just curious as to why "zero-time" engines will be used for the restoration if this meant to be a display piece and non-flying?

[Steve1971]

So the legendary Memphis Belle is being restored, thats great to hear. Its nice to know this legendary bomber is getting tender loving care. When I last saw her when she was down on Mud Island in TN she was being so neglected it was sad. Again Mustang its nice to know you guys are giving her an upgrade thats been long over due. Speaking of B-17's Mustang whats the deal with Shoo Shoo Baby? Why wasnt she restored in her NMF? They painted her olive drab and thats not correct. Whats the deal on that?

[mustangdriver]

Thanks for the comments. Shoo Shoo ab is an early G model. When she was first delivered,she was inded O.D. over gray. It didn't last very long, and she was stripped to N.M. finish. she was then converted to an airliner after the end of WWII. When she was given to the NMUSAF the natural metal was in rough shape, but structurally sound. So the decision was made to paint her in the O.D> but save the original skin rather than put all new skin that had no history. She is more original this way. They will be displayed together at the same museum which ireally cool. For one museum to have two combat veteran B-17's is great.
The reason for the zero timed engines is that the goal is to have the Memphis Belle be the finest restored B-17 period.

[Steve1971]

Originally Posted by mustangdriver

Thanks for the comments. Shoo Shoo ab is an early G model. When she was first delivered,she was inded O.D. over gray. It didn't last very long, and she was stripped to N.M. finish. she was then converted to an airliner after the end of WWII. When she was given to the NMUSAF the natural metal was in rough shape, but structurally sound. So the decision was made to paint her in the O.D> but save the original skin rather than put all new skin that had no history. She is more original this way. They will be displayed together at the same museum which ireally cool. For one museum to have two combat veteran B-17's is great.
The reason for the zero timed engines is that the goal is to have the Memphis Belle be the finest restored B-17 period.

Thanks Mustang for answering the Shoo Shoo Baby question. Keep up the great job on the Belle buddy.

[mustangdriver]

If you ever plan on going to the NMUSAF, let me know, and we can meet up.

[Steve1971]

Originally Posted by mustangdriver

If you ever plan on going to the NMUSAF, let me know, and we can meet up.

Sounds good buddy. I will do that! Hey MD if you guys ever get your hands on a B-17G that needs restoration do it in the markings of Chow Hound the B-17G that flew with the 91st Bomb Group. Just a suggestion mind you.

[mustangdriver]

That one is one of my personal favs. as well.

[Tundra04]

Originally Posted by mustangdriver

The reason for the zero timed engines is that the goal is to have the Memphis Belle be the finest restored B-17 period.

Sweet...Again, I can't wait to see her.