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Before beginning, it was necessary for Bill to center himself like a potter, with his Lorance GPS.

Paul Redhead from Oregon came down to help Bill & me install the bra.

An engine hoist suspended Chiquita while we removed the gear and struts for surgery.

The gear is removed with an air ratchet and then the struts are disengaged.

You spend a lot of time upside down doing the gear, so get comfortable.

After removing all rivets on the belly, the gear bra is clecoed into position.

Bill Leftwich on the right, thawing out from an early morning ride down the coast of California.

Carmel Valley Vintage airport is one of the oldest aviation communities in the U.S.

We flew over the Big Sur lighthouse. 2 days later, I got a letter, "a plane flew low and slow over my home . . . I want to buy this plane.

After a stressful day of work, Bill relaxed by balancing rocks.