Taylorcraft L-2M 'Grasshopper'
Originally known as the YO-57, the Taylorcraft L-2 came from the commercial Taylorcraft Model D, and was one of a series of light aircraft used in the observation and liaison mission during World War II. The L-2 featured a high-wing, tandem seats, and dual controls, and was the first tested by the Army in 1941 along with the Aeronca YO-58, and the Piper Y0-59. All three types were ordered, and all were known as 'Grasshoppers'. The L-2M was the final version of the L-2, and featured a fully cowled engine, and the fitting of wing spoilers. All of the aircraft were unarmed.
USAAF S/N 43-26433 was one of 900 L-2M aircraft built by Taylorcraft Aviation Corp., in Alliance, Ohio. It was delivered to the USAAF on December 9, 1943 and assigned to the Civil Air Patrol in Little Rock, Arkansas on December 12, 1943. It was dropped from the USAAF inventory in July, 1945 and entered civilian use until flown to the museum on September 11, 1985.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Crew: Two.
Power Plant: One 65 hp Continental O-170-3 four cylinder engine.
Dimensions:
Span: 35 ft 5 in.
Length: 22 ft 9 in.
Height: 8 ft 0 in.
Weight: Empty - 875 lbs. Gross - 1,300 lbs.
Performance:
Max. Speed: 88 mph.
Service Ceiling: 10,050 ft.
Range: 230 miles.
