Here are some photos of Bearhawk N509RF, shamelessly re-posted from elsewhere on the forum.
![](https://bearhawkforums.com/filedata/fetch?photoid=36939)
![](https://bearhawkforums.com/filedata/fetch?photoid=36940)
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N509RF, plans 509, kit 005, engine IO-540
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This was the demonstration aircraft for the Phoenix area, built by Jim Clevenger in Kissimmee, FL. One of the first kits assembled in 2004. I bought it in 2006 as suggested by my wife since we were having a difficult time visualizing the plans while we were building our kit which turned out to be 924PL. We flew it all over for several years and gave numerous demonstration flights to interested BH builders. The right shock strut collapsed during landing in May, 2012 due to internal and external corrosion in the airfoil shaped aluminum lower half. Rebuild finished in 2014 after engine sudden stoppage inspection, new prop and numerous mods. Sold to a famous Canadian in 2019. 509 had an aerobatic prop which I truly miss. The registration has changed and 509 doesn’t exhist.
Scott Williamson
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I fly a Bearhawk built by Jim Clevenger. I understand that he built at least two. ...but some of this story doesn't fit with what I've been told. Mark G himself has said that his 4 place (now Jared's) and mine (N916JC) were the first two kits and mine didn't fly until 2006. N509RF can still be found in the FAA database. It lists as manufactured in 2004 by "FURLONG ROBERT", who's intitials match the tail number. I see a lot of similarities in the panel and fuel system, so I'm sure there was some influence between the two planes. I know mine was not among the first kits to _FLY_. It is reported to be one of the first two kits created. Was N509RF maybe not built by Clevenger? Maybe Clevenger paused work in 6JC to work in 9RF and then Mr. Furlong finished 9RF?
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Originally posted by Dave Roberts View PostI’m trying to follow the group a little more. I do enjoy the group. It’s been quite awhile since my airworthiness certificate was issued in 2007. The bearhawk has right at 1000 hours. It would have a lot more, but I have a Super Cub that gets about 100 hours a year too.
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I’m pretty lucky that the life I live requires a lot of flying. We fly at least every other day throughout the spring and summer here on the ranch.
We are planning on another ice cream flyin in August. It usually turns into about a 3 day fly in. I’ll try to keep you posted, if anyone might be interested. I’m in eastern Montana.
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