DFR Restorations

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DFR Restorations Aircraft and Automotive restoration services, specialist fabrication and welding.

We have been restoring this Auster with a mixed past (I think it is made up of a T5/6 and 7 parts) for the last 7 months...
24/05/2026

We have been restoring this Auster with a mixed past (I think it is made up of a T5/6 and 7 parts) for the last 7 months or so, its taking a long time as it was in terrible shape, and the customer wanted it restored as a T7 specifically. New leading edges, all new fabric, new IP, dual brake mod, the list goes on and on. Even had to make the original monster bungee fitting tool.

Another fun one, this leg was just about terminal, but came up with a suitable repair I think.
24/05/2026

Another fun one, this leg was just about terminal, but came up with a suitable repair I think.

13/05/2026

Been a long time since I've posted any updates, so will do a session of pic uploads soon.

Whats happened over the Christmas period. I managed to fabricate my MK1 SSDR canopy, which worked better then I could ha...
14/01/2024

Whats happened over the Christmas period.

I managed to fabricate my MK1 SSDR canopy, which worked better then I could have hoped. There are some imperfections and a lot was learned from the experience so next one should be even better.
However the front dome is near enough perfect and has virtually no optical distortions and is uniform. The rear is a slightly different shape on one side, and has a dent from a shrader valve that fell in!
Other then that more fabric work has happened, the AA fin and now tailplane are complete and mentally working the Seine knot was a bit of a challenge but once you have the hang of it goes smoothly.

And finally after many hours, the Robin wing is done! There was no 2" straight edge tape in stock so I had to cut my own...
27/11/2023

And finally after many hours, the Robin wing is done!
There was no 2" straight edge tape in stock so I had to cut my own finishing tapes, which gave a bit of a rough edge, however a little sanding, feathering and attention and the result is satisfying for a first major fabric job. Plus its about to be lathered in 2 pac. Thoughts?
And I'm putting some attention back on my SSDR project, which has been languashing upstairs. I have come up with a new technique to mould a canopy this week.
Also the workshop is being expanded, so I can take on another aircraft in the front. Floor and wall painting ongoing and more lighting going in.
Also one of my boat at port this week snuck in.

Now onto fabric. First real foray into this on the Robin wing as no one else was going to do it.And, its easier then cov...
18/11/2023

Now onto fabric. First real foray into this on the Robin wing as no one else was going to do it.
And, its easier then covering a model, just time consuming. One thing I learned was owing to the rib spacing, I should have tightened the fabric more spanwise then chordwise to have a little less cusping between ribs when tightened, still very pleased with the result. The stitching was unique and fun to replicate. Pics not in order.

Then moving on. Eyebolts, Tailplane mounts and fin, plus a fuel tank repair.
18/11/2023

Then moving on. Eyebolts, Tailplane mounts and fin, plus a fuel tank repair.

Been a while, again so here's whats been going on at DFR.AA needed a new rear parachute seat, the old ones looked like h...
18/11/2023

Been a while, again so here's whats been going on at DFR.
AA needed a new rear parachute seat, the old ones looked like hammered dog ###x.

Address

Commonswood Farm
Rye
TN316HY

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+447809737471

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