Stolp Starlet SA500 Design and Construction

The Starlet SA500 incorporates the sleek elements of Lou Stolp’s other designs in the Starduster series, i.e., a very clean, low drag aircraft that generates the appearance of speed and performance even when parked on the ramp. The fuselage consists of 4130 chrome moly tubing, while the parasol wing is made of spruce spars and plywood ribs with cap strips. The museum’s Starlet, prototype N2300, was completely renovated in 1981 for the owner at that time in a rebuild by the late Dan McGrogan. His work included:

• Completely stripping the aircraft
• Cleaning, inspection, repair and repaint of all metal tubing
• Inspection of the electrical system and replacement of part of that system
• Propeller was overhauled and certified Airworthy
• Landing gear was inspected and main gear tires and tubes were replaced
• A differential compression check was completed on the engine
• Complete check of magnetos, exhaust system, carburetor and controls
• Recovering with Dacron fabric
• Repainting with eleven coats of butyrate dope, finished with four coats of enamel
• The aircraft was rigged, weighed, inspected and certified Airworthy by the FAA