1935 Waco YMF 5

The Waco YMF-5, now undergoing restoration, is a project steeped in history and ambition. This aircraft, which last flew in the 1950s as a crop duster in Idaho, is being brought back to life from a collection of parts, piece by piece, with the goal of returning it to the skies in July 2026.

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Originally flown by the Western Company as a crop duster, this Waco has passed through several dedicated hands over the decades:
✔️ 1959: Purchased by Mike Kelly with the intention of restoration
✔️ 1990s: Work begins, rebuilding the upper wing center section and fabricating new ribs
✔️ Later Sold To:

• Barry Branin, a Waco enthusiast who sought the right caretaker

• Mike Tracy, who continued preserving its components

• Dream Wacos LLC, ensuring its full restoration
   

This aircraft was originally flown on floats, but it will be restored as a wheeled aircraft while keeping the original floats together as part of its history. Bringing the YMF-5 back to life requires an extraordinary effort, with the project now in the expert hands of West Coast Air Creations.

 

The restoration process includes:

✔️ New wings being built by Scott Shue, with an evaluation of the existing center section
✔️ All-new sheet metal, fabricated by Scott Gregorsen in Minnesota
✔️ Instrument overhaul and restoration by Legacy Aviation to ensure period-correct accuracy
✔️ X-raying and structural testing of the fuselage for integrity
✔️ A fresh engine cowl, sourced from Roger James
✔️ Jacobs radial engine overhaul by Radial Engines, LTD
✔️ A 102-inch Hamilton Standard propeller, returning to its rightful place after a unique exchange

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The journey is far from over, but each rivet, polish, and rebuild brings this legendary aircraft one step closer to its return to flight. This Waco is well on its way to soaring once again as a shining example of aviation heritage and dedication.