The 1943 Stinson Vultee Reliant V-77: A Rare Piece of Aviation History Up for Auction with Low Reserve

The 1943 Stinson Vultee Reliant V-77 is an iconic aircraft known for its distinctive design, wartime history, and versatile performance. Originally built during World War II for the British Royal Navy, the Stinson V-77 played a key role in various military operations and later found its way into civilian aviation. As a part of a significant collection of vintage aircraft, this particular Stinson Reliant, with registration number N79496, is up for auction, providing a unique opportunity to own a piece of aviation history. The auction offers a low reserve, which means bidders could secure this aircraft at a highly competitive price.

History of the Stinson Vultee Reliant V-77

The Stinson Reliant line, first developed by Stinson Aircraft Company in the 1930s, was renowned for its utility and ruggedness. The V-77 model, also known as the AT-19 in military service, was a variant produced during World War II under Vultee Aircraft, the company that had acquired Stinson. It became one of the most recognizable light transport aircraft of its time, used for reconnaissance, transport, and communications by the military.

This particular Stinson V-77 was built in 1943 and was used by the British Royal Navy for operations in Europe during World War II. After the war, it returned to the United States and was sold to a United Airlines captain. The aircraft was fully overhauled in 1994 by The ‘Possum Works in Carrollton, Georgia, restoring it to its former glory. Today, it stands as a well-preserved example of aviation heritage.

Stinson’s Legacy

Stinson Aircraft Corporation was founded in 1920 by Eddie Stinson, a celebrated aviator of his time. The company became known for producing reliable, rugged, and high-performance aircraft. Stinson planes, especially the Reliant series, were highly valued for their versatility, being used in both civilian and military applications. After its acquisition by Vultee Aircraft in 1940, the company’s aircraft continued to make an impact during WWII.

The Stinson Vultee Reliant V-77 represents the culmination of years of aviation innovation, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item today.

Airframe

The airframe of this Stinson Vultee V-77, serial number 77-131, has a total time of 836 hours. The aircraft’s fabric was replaced on April 20, 1993, and it remains in excellent condition, thanks to its storage in a dry climate. The aircraft has been hangered in Flagstaff, Arizona, a location known for its ideal conditions for preservation. The combination of a well-maintained airframe and low total time makes this Stinson Reliant a standout example for collectors and pilots alike.

In terms of performance, the aircraft has a fuel capacity of 76 gallons and a useful load of 1,366 pounds. It boasts a range of 644 miles and cruises comfortably at 130 mph, making it suitable for both short recreational flights and longer cross-country trips.

Engine

Powering the Stinson V-77 is the Lycoming R680-E3B, a nine-cylinder radial engine known for its reliability and robust performance. The engine has a total time of 769 hours, with just 69 hours since its overhaul in 1994 by Radial Engines Inc., a respected name in radial engine overhauls. The engine has been preserved as it is stored in Valle Az, with regular bi-monthly starts ensuring its operational condition. Notably, the engine’s compressions from the May 2024 inspection are excellent, indicating a healthy and ready-to-fly powerplant.

• Compressions:
  • Cylinder 1: 75/80
  • Cylinder 2: 75/80
  • Cylinder 3: 78/80
  • Cylinder 4: 79/80
  • Cylinder 5: 75/80
  • Cylinder 6: 80/80
  • Cylinder 7: 76/80
  • Cylinder 8: 75/80

Propeller

The aircraft is equipped with a Hamilton Standard 2B20 propeller, which complements the engine’s performance and provides reliable thrust. The propeller has 69 hours since overhaul (SPOH), with the overhaul completed on August 18, 1994. Like the airframe and engine, the propeller has been well-preserved, ensuring optimal performance.

Avionics

Though built in 1943, this Stinson V-77 has been updated with modern avionics, making it more functional for today’s pilots. The avionics package includes:

• KX-155 Nav/Comm
• Apollo II 604 Loran-C Receiver
• KX-76A Transponder
• IFR Capability

In addition to the standard flight instruments, such as an airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator, the aircraft also features a turn coordinator, manifold pressure gauge, and heading indicator, providing comprehensive flight information for cross-country flying or local trips.

Exterior

The exterior of the Stinson V-77 is as impressive as its mechanical features. It has a distinctive silver base color with dark blue, light blue, red, and white accents, giving it a classic, yet timeless appearance. The fabric covering, replaced in 1993, remains in excellent condition, reflecting both the quality of the restoration and the care it has received since. Its gullwing doors and sturdy tailwheel design add to the aircraft’s vintage charm while ensuring practical functionality.

Interior

Stepping into the cabin of the Stinson V-77 offers a comfortable and well-preserved interior. The light blue and cream paneling contrasts beautifully with the dark blue vinyl seats and wooden instrument panel, giving the cockpit a refined yet functional appearance. The gray carpeting adds to the vintage aesthetic while providing durability. Although the aircraft is out of annual, its interior condition reflects the level of care and preservation it has received over the years.

Additional Features

This Stinson V-77 comes with extensive historical records, providing a fascinating insight into its past. These records cover its service during WWII, its post-war civilian life, and its overhaul in 1994. For potential buyers, this documentation enhances the aircraft’s historical value, making it not only a functional plane but also a significant piece of aviation history.

The aircraft is currently out of annual, with the last annual inspection performed in August 2009. However, the aircraft has been regularly started and maintained by the same mechanic for years. A new owner will need to either perform an annual inspection or obtain a ferry permit to relocate the aircraft after the auction.

The Aircraft at Auction

The auction of this 1943 Stinson Vultee V-77, held from December 11 to December 18, 2024, provides an extraordinary opportunity for aviation enthusiasts. With a starting bid of $30,000, a buyer premium of 5%, and a $2,000 deposit required, this rare aircraft could be yours at a remarkably low reserve. Below, we provide detailed information about this aircraft, including its airframe, engine, prop, avionics, and more.

Conclusion

The 1943 Stinson Vultee Reliant V-77 presents a rare opportunity to own a historic aircraft with military pedigree and outstanding restoration. With a low reserve, this auction offers a significant chance for bidders to acquire this aircraft at an affordable price. Its history, coupled with its excellent preservation, makes it a highly desirable aircraft for collectors and vintage aviation enthusiasts alike.

This auction, hosted by Airspace Auctions from December 11 to December 18, 2024, is your opportunity to secure a remarkable example of aviation history. With a starting bid of just $30,000, a 5% buyer premium, and a $2,000 deposit, this Stinson V-77 offers a fantastic balance of value and performance. Whether you’re an avid collector or a pilot with a passion for vintage aircraft, this Stinson V-77 could be your next adventure.