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For over 60 years the Douglas DC-3 and its civilian and military variants have have transported passengers, freight, food and humanitarian supplies throughout the world. No other aircraft excels the DC-3 in performing many of these missions, except the SUPER DC-3.
Douglas remanufactured 99 standard DC-3’s in the early 50’s for the Navy which greatly enhanced the performance of the aircraft. Some of the major improvements were new outer wing panels which were heavier skin and flush riveted. The Super 3 had a 3-1/2 degree wing sweep. The fuselage was elongated by the addition of a 40” plug in the rear cabin and a 39” plug behind the cockpit. Heavier landing gear and a retractable tailwheel were installed. Fuel capacity was increased from 804 gals to 1626 gals which gave the aircraft a 13-1/2 hr endurance. Also the larger and more powerful Wright 1820 engines were installed developing 1475 hp. Other comparisons are as follows:
| Standard DC-3 | Super DC-3 | |
| Gross Weight | 26,900 lbs. | 31,000 lbs. |
| Empty Weight | 19,000 lbs. | 20,025 lbs. |
| Useful Load | 7,900 lbs. | 10,975 lbs. |
| Wing Span | 95' | 90' |
| Wing Sweep | None | 3-1/2 degrees |
| Fuel Capacity | 804 gals. | 1,626 gals |
| Engine HP | 1,200 | 1,475 |
| Cruise Speed | 127 kts. | 175 kts. |
| Main Compartment* | 1,200 cu. ft. | 1,480 cu. ft. |
| Size* | 198 sq. ft. | 261 sq. ft. |
| Range | 980 nautical | 2,100+ nautical |
| Fuel Burn | 95 gal/hr | 115 gal/hr |
*Approxmiate Measurements
The Super 3 will fly at a higher gross weight on one engine (29,300 lbs.) with the gear extended than the standard DC-3 will fly on both engines developing full power with the gear retracted. the military gross weight was 36,800 lbs. and I've personally flown one in excess of 41,000 lbs. while serving on active duty in the Marine Corps.
This aircraft has just gone through a C-Check in August, 2001 and was painted in July, 1998.
Engine overhaul costs is $30,000 each and average TBO is 1200 to 1400 hours depending on use.
Additional Features:
STC’d Smoke Detector
STC’d Auto Feather Allows 31,000 lbs. Maximum Gross Takeoff
STC’d Custom Instrument Panel
STC’d Jump SeatAdditional Information:
This aircraft completed a wing-pull and extensive ACF-50 corrosion control treatment as a preventative measure when it was undergoing Phase A, B and C checks during June, 1991. It was again given corrosion control treatment January, 1997.
Since the aircraft is flown regularly, times are subject to change. Times are subject to verification.
This is probably the best equipped and well maintained DC-3S’ in the industry at this time.
Well over $875,000 has been invested in this aircraft during last ten years. If you need any further information, please call.
Over $175,000 spent on cockpit restoration in June, 2000.
Sales Price: Inquire