Piper L-4 - Flight of the Day

Here's a new clip on a pretty cool little plane - the Piper L-4! Believe it or not, it's actually as much fun to fly as a P-51, albeit a heck of a lot slower. Come check out this Flight of the Day Demonstration I did a few years back at Fantasy of Flight. Tell me if it doesn't look like a barrel of fun to take her for a spin!
Kermit Weeks
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Kermit Weeks

[@stcroixoutdoors]

Wonderful to see it fly! An old friend of mine, passed away Nov 14, 2014, was a tech Sargent for General Patton. Owen Mobley flew missions in the L-4 when officers were not available, and he had a Bronze Star among his other ETO medals. The L-4 he flew was 24-A bar, S/N 54-500. Seeing this L-4 fly brings to life many of the stories Owen told. Excellent restoration and flying! One pretty cool specification Owen talked about was that "his" L-4 had a Roby variable pitch propeller! Would be cool to see a restoration like that! Thank you for all you do!!! Keep 'em Flying!

[@Love2FlyKAP]

The Roby variable pitch propeller was not that great and were taken off most L-4's and replaced with standard fix pitched props.

[@RH-xr8ms]

In 1959, I had a choice between the L4, and an 058B for purchase. I chose the Aeronca because I liked to fly from the front seat. With two people on board, the two planes were equal. Man,,,that was fun to sit behind the 'Air Knocker', 65 horse power Continental engine and watch cars on the highway pass you by. I loved that plane !!!

[@thunderbolt513]

I don't know about all other Fantasy of Flight/Kermit Weeks followers and admirers. I think the world would be much better if there were a few more handfuls of Kermit Weeks. God bless you for what you do and the heart you put in it. Greatings from Portugal.

[@commentatron]

I think we'll just have to make do. Few have Kermit Money, and of those, fewer still have his level of love and commitment to aviation.

[@jimbarber9638]

Kermit, I didn't hear you mention this but the primary use of the L-4 "Grasshopper" during WWII was for artillery direction and enemy reconnaissance. I know this because my father was a 1Lt. L-4 liaison pilot in Patton's Third Army, 127th Field Artillery Battalion in France. He flew L-4 artillery direction sorties, directing 155mm artillery attacks on the enemy. The L-4's were of course used for many other purposes because they could take off and land almost anywhere. Each Army Division had an extra L-4 for those purposes, e.g., flights of brass to observe enemy positions, moving single personnel, emergency evacuations, mail and food delivery, dropping leaflets, etc. The L-4 was a very important asset during WWII.

[@jimmack1504]

My Dad was a Liaison pilot 313th Artillery Bn 80th Division and flew the L-4. Pilot's insignia on one lapel, crossed cannons on the other. Flight school at Denton TX then Artillery school at Ft. Sill. Sailed on the Queen Mary July 4th 1944 to join up under Patton in England. Then over to France on an LST, where the planes were uncrated and assembled. The main job was to put 105 and 155mm rounds on target. But they were used for a lot of things. After the war Dad got to fly a Fieseler Storch of which of which Kermit also has an example. Thank you Kermie for keeping these relics alive and flying.

[@jayjaynotcute]

Fantastic little plane! Thanks for all you do, restoring and keeping these wonderful aircraft flying!

[@treywest268]

There is a great book called "The Ravens" that was written about the pilots who flew these planes as Foward Air Controllers in Vietnam. Thank you Mr. Weeks for this video and more importantly, thank you for sharing your collection and passion with us.

[@n4gjm]

My "first love" wasn't a girlfriend, but our family J3. I have never heard of anyone with a dislike for the early Piper Cubs. May they fly forever! Thanks for all you do, Kermit.

[@ivantemple5628]

Lt. Col. Charles "Bazooka Charlie" Carpenter, flew this plane (as Kermit briefly mentions) with six bazookas strapped to the wings and scored a confirmed four tanks and an armored truck, as well as disabling multiple, of the legendary Tiger tank. It is an incredible story and I highly suggest checking out Yarnhub's video about it. Thanks for the video Kermit, great as usual.

[@Love2FlyKAP]

Don't check out the video. Do a search about Lt. Col. Charles and read the real story.

[@ivantemple5628]

@@Love2FlyKAP Yeah, but I some people don't have the time or interested enough so a video is a short and engaging way to to get the basis of the story.

[@myfavoritemartian1]

I learned to fly in a Stearman and flew nothing else for a year or more. One day a friend had his Cub out and let me try it. It left me stunned and introspective as to my place in aviation. (I was in love) Thanks Kermit!

[@SimonAmazingClarke]

A flight per day, what a great idea. Keeps everything and yourself flying.

[@jay600katana]

HOTTTT DOGGIN'! nothing beats alittle stick and rudder fun.

[@odonovan]

How many people think this plane's fuselage code "JK" is just perfect. It's a warbird! JK (just kidding). 😁 Actually, Lt. Col. "Bazooka Charlie" Carpenter is credited with six tanks and several armored cars destroyed. His plane (43-30426 "Rosie the Rocketer") was restored as of last year, and is on display at the Collings Foundation.

[@wilco3588]

Agreed my late friend Fred Ropkey when he took his pilot training on the GI bill flew in a Piper cup and they did everything stalls ,crabbing , ground loop avoidence stalls and spins recovery things you "can't" do these days in a modern trainer.

[@robertcornelius3514]

I just completed a couple of Cub weathervanes for the garden. They remind me going up in my grandfather's yellow cub many moons ago.

[@FlywithMagnar]

I agree! Every pilot should learn to fly in a Cub! This video brings back many happy moments.

[@aceaeromodelling]

Probably my favorite Video of Weeks Collection. Thumbs Up👍 and great inspirational and historical videos!

[@caboosesteve]

I have a ‘45 L-4J, would love to see a Kermie Cam of the Cub when it’s flying again.

[@twickersruss]

Yes that would als be a great training aid as Kermit is very thourough .

[@adlkmsclencasdmgter]

In August 1948, the L-4 was the only air force aircraft in the newly independent South Korea. When the Korean War broke out in June 1950, the South Korean air force had to fight the North Korean T-34 tanks with the primitive method of carrying a grenade, riding an L-4, and then throwing it directly to the ground by hand. Afterwards, with the help of the United States and the United Nations, the ROK Air Force was equipped with the P-51 Mustang, and after the war, the F-86 Saber was provided. There are currently a few L-4s left in South Korea museum, but they are not actually capable of flying. I've discovered a valuable page in the history of South Korean aviation. Thank you.

[@corporalclegg914]

that’s 65hp of pure fun & enjoyment. I’ve never been in an L-4. Dad’s & Gramps’ old J-3, 45 minutes before dark in early fall is one of the best airborne feelings I get. taking someone up for their 1st J-3 twilight flight is super cool experience to share.

[@pwrplnt1975]

That plane is so cool! I just love the looks and the simplicity compared to things nowadays.

[@jhettish]

Six years ago you made this short flight and the video. You mentioned that this should be the training plane for everyone wanting to fly. I've done it backward. 30 years ago I got my ASEL in a 1956 Cessna 172. Now I'm an owner of a JC3-85. I got my tailwheel cert about a year ago and have the Cub just about ready to fly again. Tennessee weather does get in the way though. I tend to describe my Cub as a kite with an engine. This is the windy part of the year February through May. I used to spend June through August doing other things. From September through May I was usually on my various sail boats on one of the Tennessee lakes. My last four flights getting my tail wheel certification were quite windy. I'm a recreational pilot and I did not consider the weather to be recreational. However, I got some real time practice for about 8 of my certification flights in shifting, difficult, winds and discovered the secret. With a tail wheel planethe trick is to make the airplane go in a straight line, hopefully on the runway center line, once on the ground and don't divert away from that straight line, no matter what. When I grow up I want to be and fly just like you and as long as Bob Hoover. But I may not have enough time to get that in. I'm already 9 years older than you (78) so I may never "grow up".

[@lorenzodunn3226]

Excellent film footage and sound. Great commentary.

[@ednesbit2988]

I remember this way back good to see Andy again I remember he would get so excited when you brought the spitfire out to run up him being British lol

[@josephpeterka2311]

Thank Kermit! Live to inspire greatness!

[@ypaulbrown]

Kermit, this is Outstanding, best wishes from Orlando, Paul

[@mattharte7334]

Great aeroplane, I like your Fieseler Storch too. Thanks for another cool video.

[@davelewandoski4292]

Thanks for sharing Kermit!

[@georgevprochazka5316]

Now that's a BEAUTY !

[@mikegmdw1]

nice gentle flight. My pal has an identical one but he calls it an L-4H where the H signifies the extended glazing.

[@robertwilson9826]

Thanks, Mr. Weeks. I really enjoy your channel.

[@wn6904k]

Low and slow, this is real flying in my mind............

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

*Kermit Weeks:* _"WHOOPEE!"_ 😄😄😄😄😄

[@xpump876]

she's a beauty

[@jayjaynotcute]

Cool way to move it around! You may have difficulty moving the P47 around like that… lol

[@ColeAviation]

Been waiting on this video for a LONG LONG time. 😁👌🏼 Love that one wheel take off roll Kermit. 👊🏼😁

[@eamo106]

Kermit, thank you for this, we visited many times from the UK, Europe or wherever we were, (Some Disney days subterfuge employed and endured by me) . Can you still fly in 2021, paperwork in order ? I really hope so. WHAT a collection and legacy you have built ! I am just an enthusiast, no pilot's license, just exposed my kids to my fantasy, unfortunately unrealized in my lifetime. Well done Sir.

[@KermitWeeks444]

It’s never too late to follow your passion. Light that Spark Within!

[@eamo106]

@@KermitWeeks444 Maybe for me Kermit, I would live to fly with one of my sons as pilot. Keep us posted on latest news, regs Your FANS !

[@halroofner4069]

Have you ever flown the Corsair Kermit? If so, what did you think about it?

[@KermitWeeks444]

Picked up the plane in Breckenridge, Texas and flew the show there, then flew it home to Miami. The fuel tank developed a leak and while it was out being repaired, Hurricane Andrew rolled through!

[@leeroyholloway4277]

I sent a crate of parts to the Malta Aviation Museum a couple of years ago to complete their L4 project. I'm looking forward to finishing mine.

[@vehdynam]

Thank you !

[@davidperry970]

The Go pro flights are so much better.

[@davidbjornstad7759]

In my dream world I would have a 200-knot six-seater for traveling, and one of these for just puttering around. Classic!

[@txnetcop]

I flew in one of these with a Korean major in the Vietnam War. It had Vietnamese markings.

[@UncleWiggy252]

...as an old friend once told me, "Flying a cub is as much fun as you will ever have with your pants on".

[@DymondzTrucking1962]

Friend of mine has one of them we used to hunt coyotes with it it was a lot of fun

[@martymcgill1312]

I'm in LOVE with that plane!! I want a ride!!

[@DropdudeJohn]

Happiest office I ever had was a 180 Cub, best I have ever had.

[@kellyb.mcdonald1863]

I'm getting to see a part of history, take to the air!!! How magical is that!!! :SUPER-DUPER" "OLLY OLLY OXEN FREE"

[@danmathers141]

I love your videos. I would like to know more about the PBY.

[@KermitWeeks444]

Check out some info here. www.fantasyofflight.com/collection/aircraft/worlds-greatest-aircraft-collection/1943-consolidated-pby-5a-catalina/

[@gunsaway1]

Sweet!

[@thurin84]

with a rebel yell, he flew moar, moar, moar! in the noontime hour, he cried moar, moar, moar! moar! moar! moar!

[@treywest268]

Hi Mr. Weeks! I love your videos! I know that Richard Bach with Puff and a friend stayed ar your hangar when a hurricane was coming through. He mentioned it in his book "Travels With Puff". I was just wondering if you ever thought about inviting him down and having him on as a guest? I know that he is reticent about being in the public's eye but it would be great to see you both together as your are each Master's of the Air.

[@KermitWeeks444]

A few years back, Richard use to live right next to Fantasy of Flight and spent quite a bit of time there. That was before we started all the video productions. Unfortunately now, Richard lives on the other side of the country, and doesn’t travel around much.

[@Terry_Fritz]

Sweet.

[@Nahojishere]

Is the plane still flying? would love to se a Kermie cam :) Cheers!

[@KermitWeeks444]

It’s currently having the fabric recovered, and will be back flying.

[@Mike-01234]

Just like a J3 Cub

[@SergioDuarteSilva]

Was my first plane.

[@bernielomaxsmustache7204]

I truly wish we could see newer videos of more current stuff going on.

[@steveshoemaker6347]

Thanks Kermit...!

[@gregson99]

my 1st small plane flight was as a 12 year old kid. Piper J3. Been hooked on flying ever since...

[@ioannisgerasopoulos5622]

Awesome !1

[@kennedysingh3916]

The first plane to land at newly biuld U.S. army air base in Jamaica 'Vernam Field' was one like this in 1941 but from the poor quality photo I have that plane had 3 pladed prop. Can give more details later ifvyour interested.

[@bondisteve3617]

V/good!

[@Gmagee]

My father was shot down 3 times in one day in one of theses.

[@e-rj8984]

Total agree with You Kermit, what You are telling us about Piper Cub J-3/L-4 as a trainer plane for everyone 👍🇺🇲!

[@matthewjones5450]

sounds like kermit hit the rum early that day lol

[@georgevprochazka5316]

What size (section) are the canopy 'window' mullions and the visible cockpit/ canopy structure(s) ? It looks so delicate and that's what makes it so appealing . I'm thinking of building a 1:3 scale model, so it would be very useful to have a refence. Most models I've seen, the structure is way oversize and it 'kills' the look of the model. THANKS !

[@dirtcop11]

My Dad had a friend who owned a J-3. He would fly to my Dad's house and slow down to just above a stall at treetop height and drop a copy of Trade-A-Plane to him. It was fun to talk to someone flying over without a radio.

[@donaldparlettjr3295]

Where is the grey hair? Then I saw 2007 got it.

[@nethanelmasters5170]

I haven't seen this plane in the recent video tours do you still own it or was it traded for something different.

[@KermitWeeks444]

Still have it. Was just sent off for fabric to be redone. Follow my Facebook page for posts with photos on that, and other of my planes.

[@i.r.wayright1457]

Kermit, right at the end of my career as an A&P, I.A. I was asked to annual a J-3 that I had not seen before. I resisted for three phone calls from the owner and I finally relented thinking to myself, "Well, how bad can you screw up a J-3?" OMG, did I ever find out. I think I had close to 30 write ups and the pilot stated after he arrived that he wasn't sure he was going to make it in to my airport. You're right about the Cubs. Low and slow with the doors hanging open is the best way to fly.

[@emmettbaker5024]

Gotta ask,of all the different aircraft you have shown flying on this channel, what ones do you still fly now that you are between acts II and III?

[@keepyourbilsteins]

Did you have this bird at Tamiami?

[@exospaceman8209]

Is that an me 109 I’m seeing in the background?

[@shrimpshrubbery7664]

Do a lot of people who own these and Cubs usually put a weight or something in the back seat to solo from front seat?

[@rickhobson3211]

Note to cameraman: It's ok to stand in one place and do slow pans. Cuts down on the motion sickness experienced by your viewers! What a great old plane though!

[@robertinscoe2379]

Don't know what it is, but there's just something about a Cub. Don't care what model but just something enjoyable about them.

[@bobmcgrew8236]

You took off in the backseat and landed front seat. hmmmmmmmmmm

[@vrosi1963]

Kind of odd piper did not design in some dihedral to make it more stable for a trainer ?

[@robm.4512]

The high wing achieves a high degree of stability too, I guess it’s enough without dihedral. Kermit did say it’s an exceptionally sweet handling aircraft and the Cub I flew a couple of times was certainly stable, docile even. Lovely pilot-friendly ride, no frills but also no vices.

[@MrSeoigh]

My father worked as a delivery pilot and instructor for Piper in Lockhaven, PA after his WW II service and while finishing college. A favorite statement of his was that the Cub was just barely able to kill you if you did everything wrong. I made my own solo in a J3 Cub in 1970...I'm indebted to Kermit for reviving that sweet memory.

[@cyrilhudak4568]

Little did you know back then the explosion of interest in carbon cubs and kit foxes. And the unsung hero of it all is the Rotax motors that makes it all so affordable.

[@onenesswithJesus]

Kermit why don`t you become an instructor at the same time Charge for the classes and used that very plane to teach how to fly.? being that you are one the must recognized Pilot in the USA you won`t have any problem getting the Certification.

[@gerardduquette782]

Here's a thought, how about someone other than Kermit fly the collection? Why is it always him? I can't imagine letting the airworthy machines sit for such long periods is good for them.

[@scottcol23]

probably for insurance reasons. But I dont know how that works really. I'm sure he has people that do regular maintenance on the planes and will do run ups and high speed taxis. but yeah letting an air worthy antique aircraft just sit and rot is not good especially with the crap fuel we have today.

[@robertinscoe2379]

Just maybe because he is the owner and maybe he doesn't want someone else to wreck them. He is one heck of a pilot not just lucky. Check the video of the camel when the engine cowling came apart on final and tell me how many other pilots would have done as well as Kermit did.👍

[@gerardduquette782]

@@robertinscoe2379 Not disputing Kermit's skill, but pilots can be vetted. Paul Allen's collection/operation comes to mind.

[@Love2FlyKAP]

Take what Kermit says about the L-4 with a grain of salt. For the real history please read what these planes did and the stories of the heroes that flew them. I have seen "Rosie the Rocketer" ... its restoration is just okay.

[@josecano9983]

Totally agree, Mr. Weeks needs to be a bit more informed as to how the L-4 was used. The Army Air Corps had a few of them but the Army Field Artillery had majority of them and were well used in the artillery spotting role.

[@dougscott8161]

I'm sure Kermit knows lot more about the Military's use if the L-4 than what he told in the video, he just didn't want to spend more time talking than flying.