MiG-17F re-assembled at Scone NSW

The reassembly of the MiG-17F was a priority for HFC Volunteers recently, following her recent arrival at Scone NSW.  The work detail includes preparing her to display standard, in readiness for the opening in the coming months of the Hunter Warbirds Aviation Centre at Scone NSW. A team of 10 volunteers spent 3 days on the complex project to reassemble and ready the MiG for display.

Although the MiG was in very good condition, it took some time to reassemble the aircraft. Firstly, the wings were re attached to the fuselage and the main landing gear lowered again into position and fixed into place. Then the entire aircraft was jacked up and the transport stands were removed, and the aircraft lowered onto its landing gear. The rear fuselage was then carefully refitted onto the engine/forward fuselage.  This was a complex task, as there are numerous adjustments required to move the structure into place. The rear fuselage alone, required 5 volunteers 6 hours to refit.

Once the wings were in place and the fuselage sections reunited the tail including the horizontal stabiliser and upper fin/rudder were carefully installed, followed by the fairings and all the access panels fitted along with the rocket packs. The only parts not yet fitted are the fuel drop tanks as they will require repainting before fitting.

Once the reassembly was completed, she was placed into storage.  The aircraft looked magnificent, but there is further work scheduled such as a full cleaning and some minor cosmetic retouching prior to going on display in March. The HFC volunteer team were very grateful to have access to the facilities at Pay’s Aviation/ Vintage Fighter Restorations (VFR) and particularly to Sam Pay, Grant Potter and the rest of the team who assisted whenever required along the way.

Hunter Fighter Collection Inc. is extremely grateful for the efforts of their volunteer team, especially in the summer heat. The team worked long hours but the rewards of an excellent job well done were apparent for all to see.

HFC Inc. is always seeking more Volunteers with Aviation or Engineering skills but will equally welcome anybody who has enthusiasm and some mechanical ability.  Scone is located about 3 hours northwest of Sydney NSW and about 2 hours west of Newcastle NSW. Volunteers are responsible for their own travel (carpooling is a possibility).

HFC Volunteers operate in a cooperative positive team environment and being a team player is an absolute must. The work is intensive, but also has its rewards.  HFC have created a skilled team of Warbird enthusiasts in a positive fun atmosphere. They offer Volunteers an opportunity to work on some unique historic aircraft.

Please express your interest in Volunteering with Hunter Fighter Collection Inc. by email to info.hfcscone@gmail.com  or apply online on the Hunter Fighter Collection website .

© John Parker 2022