Budget Buy: Taylorcraft BC–12D

Is it a Cub? Is it an Aeronca? Maybe a Cessna 140? Not exactly. The Taylorcraft BC–12D might not have the same contemporary name recognition of these storied brands, but that means you get all the fun for a fraction of the price.

The similarities between a Cub and a Taylorcraft are obvious when you learn that Clarence Taylor designed both. After William Piper bought the Taylor Cub design and started selling the J–3, Taylor vowed to create a competing aircraft that would best the Cub.

Although they look similar, the Taylorcraft has differentiating features. It has side-by-side seating, automotive-style doors, and panel-mounted control wheels. For those who prefer a stick in the right hand and throttle in the left, the Taylorcraft isn’t the airplane for you.

Taylorcraft BC–12Ds can be found in many different configurations, including landplane and factory seaplane. Engines vary, but the Continental 65-horsepower and 85-horsepower models are the most common. It’s not unusual to see an O-200 mounted up front.

You can’t buy a 70-year-old airplane and not expect to do a little work to it. Plan on a detailed inspection that addresses corrosion in the frame, poorly repaired damage, and old fabric. Like a house seller painting over a moldy wall, be especially wary of fabric touch-ups that seem new or out of place.

With only a 65-horsepower engine, the BC–12D isn’t the best performer on the market, but it does provide some honest fun for a bargain price.

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For more information contact the Taylorcraft Foundation. Membership is $20.