"Ron Natalie" wrote in message
...
john smith wrote:
Danny Deger wrote:
I am considering buying a Taylorcraft covered in Ceconite in 1993. An
ideas on how to make sure the fabric is in good shape? I don't want to
have to recover in the next couple of years.

A punch test that any mechanic should know how to do will determine if
the fabric is still good.

Any good mechanic would know that a punch test is not a valid test for
ceconite. As long as the finish remains intact, ceconite will last
indefinitely. You need to examine the visible parts of the condition:
finish, tapes, etc...

I have heard the no punch rule on Ceconite also, but for the purpose of a
pre-buy inspection, wouldn't a punch test be a good idea? Also, without a
punch test how is an airplane known good to fly as far as the state of the
fabric is concerned. Even Ceconite after years in the sun will degrade --
want it? Can't you have an airplane with the tape all still together and
the paint still OK, but the underlying fabric is too weak?

Danny Deger