J3 Cub – Iconic American Light Aircraft

The Piper J3C-65 Cub is an iconic American light aircraft that carries with it the nostalgia and charm of the golden era of aviation. Built by Piper Aircraft, the J3C-65 Cub is renowned for its simplicity, affordability, and excellent low-speed handling capabilities. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Piper Aircraft and the Cub line of aircraft, delve into the features and specifications of the 1946 J3C-65 Cub, and showcase why it remains a beloved choice for aviation enthusiasts.

History of Piper Aircraft and the Cub Line:

Piper Aircraft, founded by William T. Piper in 1927, has left an indelible mark on the aviation industry. The company’s commitment to producing reliable and affordable aircraft has made it a prominent name in general aviation. The Cub line of aircraft, including the J3C-65 Cub, has been a cornerstone of Piper’s success. The J3C-65 Cub holds the distinction of being Piper Aircraft’s most-produced model, with nearly 20,000 units built in the United States. Its enduring popularity and simple design have drawn comparisons to the Ford Model T automobile.

Description: The Piper J3C-65 Cub is a two-seat, single-engine, high-wing monoplane with a conventional landing gear configuration. This particular example, with a tail number N70589 and a serial number 17598, has a total time of 4,970 hours. It showcases a beautiful period-correct J3 Cub design, capturing the essence of the aircraft’s historical significance.

Powered by an upgraded 90HP Continental C-90-8F engine, the J3C-65 Cub offers enhanced performance while maintaining the simplicity and authenticity of the original design. It features no electric system, staying true to its factory specifications and allowing pilots to experience flying as it was during the golden era of aviation.

Originally designed as a basic trainer aircraft, the J-3 Cub quickly gained popularity as a recreational aircraft. It is celebrated for its forgiving nature and easy handling, making it an ideal choice for first-time pilots or those seeking a nostalgic flight experience.

Specifications: The airframe of this J3C-65 Cub model was recovered and refurbished in April 2003, accumulating a total time of 4,970 hours, reflecting its extensive history. Equipped with a Continental C-90-8F engine, this aircraft has a total time of 1,102.3 hours, with a time since major overhaul (TSMOH) of 358.4 hours completed in September 2000. It features a wood fixed-pitch propeller with a total time of 245.5 hours since major overhaul (SMOH). The avionics include essential instruments such as airspeed, RPM, compass, altimeter, oil pressure, and temperature gauges. Additional features include no electric system and a 90HP engine. While the early log history of this aircraft may have some inconsistencies, all documentation is available in digital files for reference.

The exterior of the J3C-65 Cub showcases a classic yellow color scheme with the Cub decal and black lightning bolt, capturing the essence of its historical significance. The glass components are in excellent condition, and the cylinder covers are polished to maintain their visual appeal. Inside the cabin, you’ll find yellow and black leather seating, adding to the vintage atmosphere.

The Piper J3C-65 Cub is a timeless aircraft that allows aviation enthusiasts to relive the golden era of aviation. With its simple design, docile handling characteristics, and affordability, it continues to capture the hearts of pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to own and fly the 1946 J3C-65 Cub—an aircraft that brings nostalgia, authenticity, and a touch of history to the joy of flying. (Note: This aircraft will be available for a live online auction from September 6, 2023, to September 12, 2023.)