F-51D “Was That Too Fast”

Overview

• Make/Model: North American P-51D-20NA Mustang

• Serial Number: 44-63577

• Year of manufacture: 1944

• Project Duration: 5 years

• Awards & Recognition: 2013 EAA Airventure Grand Champion - Post WWII

F-51D "Mustang," serial number 44-63577 is a truly unique restoration in the modern warbird landscape. This remarkable aircraft boasts a rich history. Before arriving at our workshop, it served various missions in the USAAF until 1949, was later sold to Bolivia in 1960, and eventually found a home in a museum in Montevideo. In 1985, it was repatriated to the United States, where it underwent initial restoration before we acquired it in 2008.

The previous owner, John Turgyan, had envisioned a specific livery, but in discussion with the current owner, Jon Vesely, we decided to represent an underrepresented theme: the Pacific and Korean theater operations. Thus, we chose the unique and fitting "Was that too fast" livery, complete with distinctive unit markings on the fuselage and vertical tail. This choice serendipitously coincided with the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War.

Restoring the Mustang to represent its service in the Korean War required meticulous attention to detail. We equipped it with period-authentic features, like cotton-sheathed electrical cables and stamped aluminum sheeting. We distinguished the F-51D of the Korean War from its World War II counterpart by adding specific modifications, such as an extended breather on the engine hood and an authentic ARC-3 radio set, succeeding the SCR-522 of World War II. This comprehensive approach ensured that every aspect of the aircraft resonated with historical accuracy.

A unique aspect of this restoration involved installing a vintage rocket launcher kit, a feature prominent in Mustangs during the Korean War. This kit, which had been in the possession of a renowned warbird parts specialist, was perfect for our early series P-51D, which lacked pre-installation for rocket carrying. The installation of this kit, a challenging yet rewarding task, further cemented the authenticity of our restoration work.

The culmination of our efforts was met with widespread acclaim when "Was that too fast" was showcased at the AirVenture 2013, organized by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Here, it was honored as the Grand Champion in the Warbirds-Post-World War II category. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to excellence in aircraft restoration, underscoring our dedication to preserving the rich history and legacy of these magnificent flying machines.

Please scroll down and check out the gallery below for photos of the entire restoration journey.