By Paul J. Davis, EAA 1380042

This piece originally ran in the September 2023 issue of EAA Sport Aviation magazine.

After 9/11 occurred I never believed I would return to general aviation, but in 2018, when I was 62, my son became interested in aviation. So, the bug bit again. I started the search for an airplane with a good airframe and low-time engine and found N163W. It had a Continental O-300D with 100 hours since major overhaul, perfect! It was a 1956 Cessna 170B, one of the newer models, so to speak, since it was the last year 170s were manufactured. The deal was finalized, and after a 10-hour checkout, I proudly flew the airplane home.

I immediately contacted my two trustworthy A&P/IA mechanics, Jorge and Scott, and shortly after the restoration began. Jorge and Scott supervised the work I undertook since the airplane was going to remain a standard category aircraft. I learned and discovered much when removing the interior, instrument panel, and all wiring throughout. At the end of six months of labor-intensive work, many of the airplane’s parts had been replaced as well as some new skins.

N163W was now ready for panel work. Jeff and Neema, my avionics experts, took over, and they were also gracious enough to allow me to assist on the planning of the panel. After much discussion and brainstorming, the approach to the new panel was formed. New panels were cut, powder coated, and nomenclature engraved. Trial fitting the new gear was a sign of progress. After installing the switches, breakers, and engine and cabin control cables, Neema and Jeff installed a brand new harness, and we began connecting the components. My excitement increased as we neared completion of the panel because by this time it was approaching one year since the propeller had been turned over.

Testing and configuration was completed, and it was time to fly! To my astonishment, the O-300 started immediately, and after clearance I taxied onto Runway 36. Everything checked out during the run-up, and I was cleared for takeoff. With anticipation I lined up on the centerline, powered up to full throttle, and N163W was airborne. It was a 20-minute flight, with Jeff from the avionics shop as my co-pilot and technical support. Twenty minutes around the patch was proof everything worked perfectly so it was time to land. Winds were light at 350 as I lined up on final for 36. The touchdown was smooth and easy, just what I expected from the old girl. Back in the hangar, I received two thumbs-up from Jeff and Neema.

Now, I was ready for the next steps, paint and interior work. Fortunately, I found two shops that worked hand in hand between paint and interior. Roger’s company applied the paint, and Dean’s team refurbished the interior. The restoration of N163W has been a wonderful and rewarding process, and it has allowed me to meet some really talented professionals in the aviation business. Now my old 170B has been restored better than it was in 1956, and I look forward to many years of enjoyable flying in the future.