So I showed my wife this video, she's from the city that MD came from in Maracaibo Venezuela. She told me the flag is the government flag and not the people's flag as the government is very corrupt and the people's flag has only seven stars so it was a government heli at one point. She suggests the name "Chinita" for the MD which is also the name of the airport in the videos you got from them. Very happy for you that you found yourself an MD finally for a good deal and I hope everything is in good working order. If you need some translating done let me know and she can try to help.
Paul is a gem. I don’t know why, but I was a little moved by listening to him impart his wisdom and knowledge to you guys. He is a smart dude who is sharing his passion with the next generation. Do not under value your relationship with him. He is a good guy. This is so cool to watch.
Definitely, love when someone is knowledgeable and passionate about what they do or their interests/hobbies. The run down he gave on condition was very cool
the people of western north carolina are extremely grateful for your help during the aftermath of the hurricane your generosity touched a great many lives thank you so much and for all the others who helped
@@egypthobby So is Dave Sparks, and his projects just showed up done. I'm guessing Thoroughbred isn't letting camera crews just hang out unfortunately.
@@HughWoohe means the more videos he does on it. The more money he receives to put against the initial purchase. So hopefully the plan will be the helicopter will pay for itself
From exhaust pipe whistles to an empire bringing happiness to millions. Truly inspiring! Fly safe, best wishes to you all from England. (Congrats to maddy and garrett on the new baby too!!! )
i really respect sam always jumping in and buffing/shining things. even if it is the inside of a shipping container. doesnt matter what job someone has you want the man with the work ethic like that.
Just found your site by accident and almost fell out of my chair. After my tour with the US Army, I moved to Culver City California in 1965 and ended up working for the aircraft division of Hughes Tool Co. I first noticed, sitting in the back corner of your hanger, what appears to be another Hughes 2 seater which at that time was designated the 269A helicopter. My job at Hughes was the tail boom assembly. Later when the fore-runner of your MD, the 369A, was introduced I was transferred to the engine shop and promoted to crew chief. Hughes sent 3 of the 369A LOH helicopters to Viet Niam daily and it was my job along with my crew of 2 other guys to have these great little ALLISON engines ready for the assembly line. I am sure there have been some great improvements in these engines since then but it brought some great memories after serving my time in the Army and then still be able to support the troops. I am now 83 and still kicking it. Can't wait to see your journey getting the MD in the air!
Paul was an incredible guest. His level of expertise was evident and he made this video super interesting to watch from a layman's perspective. I learned a tiny bit about helicopter construction and maintenance in this video and have a whole new level of respect for the aircraft.
Cleetus “. I got a great deal on it “ Jimmy in the background. Rolling on the floor laughing Paul. “ it’s not that expensive. “. Relatively speaking. 💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸🐊 LoL 😂
Seeing Maddie attitude around Garrett just solidifies their destiny together. You can tell all she wants is to be a wife and mom to a successful man and his children. She never presses for camera time and is humble as all get out when it's around. Ole cleeter skeeter truly got his round this round of life.
Nice seeing genuine excitement about getting something new as a RUclipsr. So many “look at my new car” videos that turn into 6 months later a giveaway or are sold down the road after the “this isn’t going anywhere speech.” This is genuinely a dude excited about getting something and his buddies are just as stoked for him. Good stuff!
Who the hell would have thought that this stripped out venezuelan chopper would be completely overhauled and save lifes in NC, outstanding turn of events, this guy Cleetus is truly an amazing human being
As a former Blackhawk crew chief. I'm seriously loving this aviation content. Really brings back awesome memories of wrenching on these whirly birdies. Yall ever need a place to land in South GA. Hit me up.
@fast97z24 don't like it.... go start your own racing channel. As far as I'm concerned, it's his channel, he can post whatever content he wants. I for one, along with many others will continue to watch both the aviation content, and the racing content. Seriously. If you don't like it... don't watch, much less comment....
Jackstand is the friend everyone needs , he’s being soo positive about the purchase which was a huge risk and he’s keeping Cleetus optimistic and being super excited and pulling for his boy the whole time , just happy for him and not a Debbie downer , just a good friend and happy for his boy !!🤘🏻🤘🏻👍👍👍
I had this same thought watching this. Dudes just there telling him how awesome things are and keeping spirits up. Exactly the kinda dude you need in your corner when you jumping into a risky big project, a motivator to keep you going.
Cleetus has done an awesome job assembling the team he has around him. They are all top notch at what they do. Oh and that was funny, Matty what color should it be? Blue, Blue it is.
Jackstand may be one of many co-owners. I believe Hes in on more than people think, I remember him signing things at Motion raceworks. Hes clearly more than just the head mechanic.
Customs seized the wood crates because they have very specific criteria on treated wood to kill pests. The wood has to be treated to prevent to risk of invasive species coming into the country.
not just treated but also must be certified FSA to enter. has made shipping a PIA in lots of places as the cost for other materiel's is high as is the weight for metal bracing. We get lots of crates from Portugal and it's all metal crating now, takes 2 containers now when it used to take 1.
A riot, Our gubmint has issues with the type of wood that comes into the US, But lets every tom dick and jose cross over the borders unchecked. We are loaded with "invasive species" every day that goes by.
God gets all the glory that you have this chopper in such a time as this! He picked you to save and minister to his children in South Carolina! God bless you!
Port of Miami doesn't have an issue with crates per say, but it's an issue with wood boring insects that come from other countries that can be very very invasive to the US. Good luck with the purchase!
Seems that they have an issue with the straps, they are talking about the wooden crates and they have to move all the wood around the helicopter, not the "third world country" only fault.
If you look at the early pictures, the main body was in back of container, so the whole load was reloaded, they used the wheels and just wheeled it around! Lol
We need more of Jackstand on the camera and his infinite wisdom! "If you can't tie a knot, tie a lot!" And "don't stand in the circle" as the winch is pulling tight! 😂
"Oh... hi Maddie..." 😂 Great job Jackstand with filming and commentary, with all the excitement going on, did a top job. Cant wait to see the refurbishment, will be awesome to see Cleet flying it for the first time.
Love this content! I am an A&P and the Director of Quality/Chief Inspector for a 135 and 145 rotorcraft operation. MD500 looks good so far! Praying the powerplant is clean. Cheers, and keep up the amazing content.
As you know Helo are not Cheap to keep in the air, MANY years ago I was the Leed Technician on the SH 3D and the SLEP,.... /VH3 D Programs Cost a lot of money to keep in the air and More on the ground.
These are my favorite aircraft. Well made and super reliable. As an A&P I've done a few pre/post-buy inspections and this one looks cherry. You can tell a lot by how clean it's been kept. This looks to have definitely been well taken care of. I've seen them come from over seas looking like they were used to plow farms and appeared to have never been even swept out after hauling livestock. I imagine the repairs to get it airworthy will be minimal. Get all new glass in front. You can polish out the hazing, but it's much safer to have new glass (bad glass will actually make your eyes super tired). Nice find.
You had the right guy inspecting her, he really knows what he’s doing. It’s great to see someone who has knowledge and experience. The landing gear dampers were flattened to fit her in the shipping container. Congrats man, your going to absolutely love her, you got a good ship there.
Wow..a helicopter...who cares if it needs work. You woulda had to go through it anyway! Thats very cool even if it is a lil sketch, ha! Its always interesting what FF comes up with. Thanks for the hour long vid! 🚁
I wouldn't call this a "special." The first 30 minutes were them saying the same thing over and over and over and over and over. We get it. You got a helicopter. Watching people unload stuff off a truck is not my idea of "entertainment."
Thanks for the longer form video so we could understand exactly what the situation is with this helicopter. Man I hope all the Engine and Mechanicals are good. will watch with close interest.
I Love how supportive and how happy Maddie is to see Garrett fired up. I luv it. And im glad she dozent mind being on camera proves how great ole. CLeet is
REAL MARRAGE means you LIKE WHAT MAKES YOUR OTHER HALF HAPPY !!! AND SEEING THEM HAPPY MAKES YOU HAPPY !!! ;) not spoosed to be filled with anger and discontent!!! SPOOSED TO BE ALL GOOD AND AWESOME TIMES !!! with only a couple major and a few more minor storms along the WHOLE OF THE RELATIONSHIP !!! not spoosed to be RELATIONSHIP SAILING IN STORMY WATERS!!! THAT DO NOT GET ANYTHING OTHER THAN STORMY AT ALL TIMES!!! :) I LIKE HOW THEY already have the center seat labeled for da kidz! LOL
idk how her and Cleet met but that day was a blessing! She only ever helped him pursue his motorsports and video making dreams and we're all just as lucky as they are. Whether it be on this end or not!
I live in Venezuela and the helicopter has most likely not been flown in years because the government pretty much forbid the use of private helicopters (unless you have powerful connections) and the amount of legal restrictions makes having private planes or helicopters pretty much impossible for everyone except the most wealthy. If the owner flew that helicopter at some point in the mid 2010's he's probably a very powerful person.
The owner definitely was someone in power! My wife is from Venezuela, and I hope that someday soon that the country will start to find peace and the government will get taken back by the people.
I just wanna say I loved everyone's energy in this video. My grandmother passed away yesterday, I've been very down. Watching this video made me laugh & smile up a storm watching yall unload it to inspecting the helicopter. Thank you, Cleet, for providing top-notch quality content. You have no idea how much this video helped me out today. Reminder for everyone, reach out & check in on your loved ones ❤️
well we are a community of great folks that just want to lift one another up and share Love sweet Love to everyone and all of us !!I'm so sorry for yer loss.... we Love you like Family! God Bless u ! and thanks fer sharing such an honst and sacred emotion! we all have pain ...i just lost my lil sister 37 yrs old from drug/alcohol overdose and that was really bad she was beatiful person...mees her so moch
Men like Paul don't live to a long age unless they are remarkable. It's fun to watch Cleet absorbing the knowledge. Paul is an American legend, and Garrett is harvesting the goodness while walking in footprints. God bless you guys.
I used to have a 500D. 500s are the most fun you can have in a helicopter. Also I used to build police cars. I have a 2011 Crown Vic owners manual in the shrink wrap if you want it as a souvenir.
I worked at Hughes Helicopters from 1983 to 1984 and I think I may have designed the trapezoid shaped side plates on the outer ends of the T-tail. The hardest part was laying out the lettering. Oh yeah, this was all on 34 inch X 44 inch size E paper drawings in pencil done on a big drafting table. No computers then. The MD is for McDonnell Douglas, which bought Hughes Helicopters around 1984, and is why I left. They moved the plant from Culver City, CA to Mesa Arizona and I didn't want to go. Eventually, Boeing bought McDonnell Douglas and I don't know who makes the 500 now, which was known as the 369 internally (I have no idea why).
When I first saw Consuela after she was off the truck she looked literally happy. She's like a puppy that found a good home. After being painted and repaired, she beamed! She will serve you well.
From one of my favorite car channels to now one of my favorite aviation channels. You guys are killing it. You set the example that this is not a game, it is serious and takes significant attention to detail, time and money to do things safely. Nothing wrong with joking along the way, it is easy to see that behind the scenes you guys do things right.
I love how RUclips suggested this to me again after Consuela put in work out here. Wish I could’ve made it to Hickory to shake your hand, you’re a good man and saved lives in these mountains. ❤
As a YT viewer and fan of the channel, I'm stoked at all the great things going on in your life and it sure adds enjoyment to ours! The MD500 will be an absolutely awesome addition!
For future reference, in case you need to do something like this again, jack it up and sit it on like 5 pieces of heavy wall pipe (I'd use 2" rigid conduit, but that's because I'm an electrician, I'm sure rollcage tubing would work just as well) as rollers. Hook it up to a come-a-long if you have to let it down an incline like this. 3 men could EASILY unload that thing that way. Two to push/pull the load, one to man the come-a-long and reset the rollers (as it rolls off one, put it back in front to start over). I've moved 20,000-lb transformers, switchgear, etc. (often multi-millon-dollar equipment) with 2-4 guys a hundred times that way. Very controllable and safe. You can steer it because the 'contact patch' between the unit and the rollers is tiny and slides easily, and you can kick the rollers to straighten them up when they get a little crooked, and if you have like five, two or three of them are just 'safeties' depending on the weight.
Small contact with high pressure by rigid would most likely dent the skids. A&P two weeks before turning 21. Last Dec. 23 awarded my 45 year pin as a I.B.E.W. Inside Wireman
@@R90scj I have 17 in so far (IBEW 317 Journeyman Inside Wireman). I suppose it could dent, but I was guessing helicopters are pretty lightweight and the skids are probably pretty strong to withstand less-than-perfect landings. When in doubt, add more rollers, haha!
Things I like about this video: 1) Finding the transport wheels inside the helo...after transporting the helo. 2) Paul's high speed , low altitude arrival. 3) And best of all, the boy and his new toy look on Cleetus's face throughout the entire video...priceless!
Awesome, the MD-500 (hopefully with the old authentic Hughes 500C tail and not the T-tail shape) is one of the most beautyful helis ever designed. And iconic star in many TV shows like MacGyver. Good luck with your new heli.
So so cool. Some brief googling suggests its potentially spent some time in Switzerland, if its the same aircraft theres a picture of it online while HB-XZG. Was crashed apparently but obviously rebuilt. 0141E H-369E Bj. 1985 Engine: Allison 250-C20 Hughes Helicopter Inc, Mesa, Arizona N5227C 000887 reg'd N75NH Nanticoke Homes Inc, Greenwood, Delaware 090591 reg'd N75NH Aircraft Trading Center Inc, Jupiter, Florida 001091 canc N75NH 051192 reg'd HB-XZG Heli Neuchatel SA, Les Eplatures, Switzerland 110994 dam HB-XZG at Steingletscher, but rebuilt 021296 canc HB-XZG 130597 reg'd N75NH Cherokee Aviation Inc, Midlothian, Texas 210597 canc N75NH exported to Venezuela YV-1043P YV2018
@@jasonguesseditthere’s a previous comment mentioning the multiple numbers (tail numbers?) the helicopter has had. One of the tail numbers had reported that the helicopter had been in a crash and destroyed
@@JR-uc1of They rotate tail numbers around as it changes owners and the previous one is released, just like car license plates are rotated around too. That tail number must of been registered to some other aircraft that crashed. This one obviously has never been crashed if you see the whole video. Don't skim it. Watch it all.
I'm a retired law enforcement helicopter pilot from North Alabama, and this video just got my blood pumping like it hasn't in... well, ever. I'd love just to stand back and watch this thing go back together. 🤠
I noticed your location. I'm in Florence and my wife and I own an RV park just off Savanah Hwy in Florence on the old cr 23 which is at the end of Cox Creek Parkway. I say all of that to say if you are ever in the area, I would love to share aviation stories with you. I'm retired now, Former USAF & FAA Air Traffic Controller plus ATP fix wing pilot for various corporations. I've always wanted to get a rotorcraft add on to my license..... Take care, God bless you and your family. Hank (Florence AL RV Park)
@@hankcarter1021 We have a nephew (age 8) in Savanah, so we go that direction fairly often. Sounds like a great idea. I soloed in my dad’s 172 at age 16, and have loved flying even before that. Save us a seat. We’d absolutely love to.
Come on dude. . . . . You’re a retired Law enforcement chopper pilot, I’m sure you’ve got some pretty exciting story’s that got the blood pumping ,it is just in the moment you need to keep your head while it’s just pumping like crazy , while here there is no risk :) It can pump, pum,p pump away
To be fair every time i try to use a strap it becomes permenently mangled immedietly and youre better off buying new ones. I guess im just better at stocks compared to straps. Id rather not know how to use a strap and then never accidentally buy 1,000,000 shares instead of 100,000 you feel me?
Seeing ole Cleet this happy makes me smile like a proud brother. Garrett has done so much for the car community and all of us viewers it’s literally like living in a dream sometimes. Regardless to say, no one deserves to have things more than you buddy! Thanks for letting us tag along for the awesome ride🤘
As a structural technician, I got to replce the pilots side windshields on F-4E. Loads of fastners to loosten and remove, carefully scraping off the old PR 1422 using a scraper fabricated and sharpened from a 1" thick old pollycarbonat window pane. With the light construction of the MD500, I'd expect the windows to contribute to the actual structural integrity of the frame. So it's a delicate slow process.
Wow! Those MD’s are so nice. Can’t wait to see it. I know it won’t be a quick process. So much work maintaining helicopters. Best of luck! I hope it’s as nice internally as it looks outside.
Damn I didn't even realise this is an hour long video, that just flew by! I absolutely LOVE listening to older guys who really know their stuff when it comes to technical things - I could listen to them talk all day!! That seems to be a gorgeous heli that you have got for yourself, here's hoping the inspection goes well and nothing nasty creeps up to bite you! I'm SO jealous - I've always loved the MD500 and wish I could fly one, they look like SO much fun!!
Someone I grew up with, who was one of my best friends his entire life was trained as an A&P mechanic, later becoming an inspector. He gravitated towards helicopters & worked at Hughes for some time. He worked in a number of different areas, so he could get a well rounded knowledge base. This was in the '80's, so could very well have had hands on that bird. Keep yours eyes peeled for KJ in very inconspicuous places. He exceled in body skin work & later worked on the proto-type B1 Stealth bomber in the skin dept. He became expert enough in Hughes birds he used to get flown off to the oceans around Tahiti for 6 months stints of repairing & inspecting birds used in the tuna industry. He'd be at sea for 6 months, come back w/ his pockets full, then go back when he wanted. The funny thing was, growing up, he was horsechit as far as anything mechanical, but he was into aviation. Got his license at 16; we went flying in high school. Never got rated for helo's, though. He did become an extremely competent A&P. You scored on that bird, if you got a better than good price. Congrats. GeoD
Dude what an awesome video, watching this rollercoaster of emotions and energy coming from all you guys was so fun to watch. Because it was such a gamble and unknown, you can just see that everyone is so stoked but at the same time so stressed out with the straps and packaging of everything. Then hear comes good ole paul to put everyones mind at ease with all the reassurance and info you could need to just relieve your worries and show just how epic of a project this is. I really hope you document as much of this thing as you possibly can. Then do a full in depth walk through of whats been done and why it was done and hopefully that includes Paul again and it would be sweet to see him fly it with you or even help out on getting it dialed.
@cleetus and team... bro i just subbed i had to i just ran across your channel and i can not tell you how hard all you guys hit me. Im 47 years old and i used to have awesome friendships like you guys have doing these same things and tbh allll of my friends I've had has passed away over just a few years period and it's just extremely hard finding friends and making a whole new group such as we had and you guys remind me so much of all of us. Bro it's a gift from god to have friendships like this and you wouldn't cherish it unless it was gone and ima tell ya I've suffered nothing but loss all my life and i wanted you guys to know you've brought me some joy back in my life just being yourselves and reminding me of times I've had with them
Man it's never too late for new opportunities. Still got plenty of time mate! Hope you have a good day and yeah, it is fun to live vicariously through these!
@@brettpomeroy6804 No, i think he meant the other dude, the guy that was actually talking about the chopper and inspecting it. LOL Jimmy is a cool dude but he isnt a helicopter guy at all
Good to hear you brought it to the best to have it built and maintained. I worked for bluegrass aviation for quite a few years, I live probably 35 minutes away from their main hangers.
I'm glad you are seeking professional help. Paul is a very knowledgeable MD guy. It will be interesting to see what has to be done to make it airworthy.
When Cleet is talking at the back of the trailer about this being a "come up" his voice is on the verge of cracking, and that smile was one I recognized right away... Thats a $hyte eating grin... Love it brother!
I worked these while stationed at Fort Eustis, VA. Then I worked on these while assigned with the Night Stalkers. I was the Maintnance Supervisior on these, visited the Huges Helicopter, monitered assembly of said airframes; met the almost finished product at the Palomar to conduct the main blade tracking and paperwork changeout from civilian to military standard. After all of that, performed the acceptance flight; then flew the new craft to Camp Pendleton, loaded up the ship on a C-130 for Lakhurst, NJ. That's all I can tell you. Check your Truss System.
On Sept 11, 1994, that baby was involved in a bad wreck over in Switzerland. MD 500E(369E) with s/n 0141E. Make sure your chosen MRO does a thorough inspection before you place yourself and any of your loved ones in that thing.
Yup. As an A&P (Factory trained and certified in multiple helicopters), it’s verified that this bird was wrecked. Do your due diligence and knock out a great inspection and overhaul. Fly safe brother.
I’m so glad you chose to record your life! Cleet, you have the BEST content on the TUBE! We are so close to getting to the Leroy body vid and I cannot wait! Keep on keepin RUclips alive brother!!
I live 15mins outside of lexington and have my A&P working on mostly military stuff. Thoroughbred are good people are some of the best at what they do. This thing will end up in top shape!
@@dsprecision4782 "I live 15mins outside of lexington" 15 mins is not a measure of distance so I made a joke about what it takes you to travel 15 mins in to get to your home from Lexington
@@pistonburner6448 ahh ok lol I didnt understand the neighbor part so it threw me off. I guess lexington side of winchester in a ls swap s10 watching for bumps and potholes makes more sense then?
Helicopters have always fascinated me. I have an older RC helicopter that I need to finish repairs on. When I first tried to fly it, I would over corect and crash it. Now, with all the practice on the 4 blade drones, I need to get it working again and see if I can fly it any better now. But todays drones with 4 blades balance themselves out so much now. But I have gotten a lot better at it. I'm not as good as those people who race the drones. I've practiced a lot with the small indoor drones that can be thrown around when the heater comes on. LOL But I just really haven't had the time for all that lately.
Helicopters require skill- but hang in there and practice. It's possible to have the gyros overcompensate- I like to configure RC helicopters with only a one axis gyro and use old school skill. Remember, it's like balancing an inverted broom on your finger- small movements and anticipate what you need to do. You'll get it- after a while it just "clicks" and you reach enlightenment.
So happy and excited for Cleetus. So far it looks like a good deal. Lets hope the engine and transmission is good also. Great that Cleetus and an invaluable asset in Paul and his expertise with MD's.
You got the coolest helicopter out there! I flew police helicopters for 20 years and have flown many models. The MD 500E is the badass of them all, can’t wait to see what you do to her, congrats!
I just came across your channel, and I love it! I have one idea regarding the color if you haven't decided yet: Vantablack. It's the darkest known black with 100.0% light absorption. We're talking black hole black. That would look freaking awesome streaking across the sky, especially if you use a highly reflective paint for the tail numbers. Just a thought!
Nice Barn Find!! It's great that you have someone like Paul to look over your purchase and give you advice. Thoroughbred Aviation will get that thing in top shape for you to enjoy!
@marvindebot3264 yeah you can tell by the way he just dives in on it. I didn't even know the skids had any form of dampening before this video. It seems obvious now but that's the kind of stuff I love, hearing someone share their knowledge on something as interesting as a frickin helicopter.
Hey Cleet, congrats on the new addition im hoping that the inspection goes well and the MD was a bargin, at this stage looks like you got a great deal. All the best and hopefully you will be flying her soon.
The amount of content this channel creates - cars, boats, aircraft, events - and the people it brings into the loop is just amazing. I can't wait to see the progress on this, and the build.
How the hell would you see cleetus buying an abandoned helicopter from South America coming ??😂😂 I’m pretty sure you don’t need to clarify with us that you have to be honest about saying you didn’t expect this 😂😂😂
Its awesome to see an expert at his craft get excited for what this project could be. It clear that its something Cleet is truly great at, and its turning into my favorite part of this channel.
I was soooo happy to hear that it was going to Thoroughbred. What was Jimmy doing there? Is he like a genie that just shows up whenever theres an abandoned aircraft around?
that was going to be my first suggestion; take her up to Thoroughbred Aviation because Dave Sparks is one of their loyal customers (I suspect that Dave actually suggested them TO Cleet!)
Who knew what "Fate" had waiting for this aircraft. A place in history. Saving our fellow Americans from a catastrophic nightmare. Sometimes, there are no words to express what needs to be said ! May the Good Lord always bless you and your family and keep you safe !❤
@@justinsk1 - Saying it's a "stupid purchase and a death trap" without providing reasons why you feel this way, is a baseless assertion. Please explain why you feel it's a stupid purchase and a death trip, especially when it was explained that the MD is going to be gone through and restored by a company that professionaly restores MDs.
@@KD0LRG I translated the 1994 accident report from Switzerland. It says it was "totally destroyed" after hitting a building while landing but everyone survived. The summary says only "heavily damaged, but rebuilt" so maybe someone was being dramatic but the detail report describes it rolling over on the ground after contacting the building. Interestingly it was originally sold to Mexico, found it's way to Switzerland, back to Texas, then sold to Venezuela.
This is incredible, not the fact that you have it but it remained intact in a 3rd world country that FAILED. Those people were starving and the country was completely lawless for a time. Stripping this thing for parts and selling it would have helped alot of people. I'm just amazed it survived. I think you should keep the Venezuela flag on it and go with Georges name. The fact that it survived in this good of a condition is more like divine intervention than anything. It deserves its own commemorative plaque and guiness book of world record award.
20 year A&P mechanic here. I have maintained this helicopter type in the field. I agree with your consultant. If the engine and main gearbox are good, you are in good shape. Consider keeping the leading edge tape on the main rotor blades. I have personally condemned two sets for leading edge erosion at the blade tips, ironically, operated by police agencies. The next large expense will be the mail rotor head. Those will be , I think, a hard to find item. Congratulations on what looks like a good purchase. Best of luck on the rebuild.
Should we stick with the name George has chosen???
definitely 😂
Yes
needs more lemon pledge
Hell yes Brother! 🌴🌴🌴🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🦅🦅🦅🚁🚁🚁
100% Consuela 🇻🇪
I need to work on this. Have Leatherman, will travel.
This is what we all cant wait to see
PPV material right there. I would pay to watch you two do a collab!
Absolutely! I’m here for Vice Grip Aviation. Cruising around little air yards picking up resto’s 😂
Hell yeah brother!
Cleet get this man on some projects
So I showed my wife this video, she's from the city that MD came from in Maracaibo Venezuela. She told me the flag is the government flag and not the people's flag as the government is very corrupt and the people's flag has only seven stars so it was a government heli at one point. She suggests the name "Chinita" for the MD which is also the name of the airport in the videos you got from them. Very happy for you that you found yourself an MD finally for a good deal and I hope everything is in good working order. If you need some translating done let me know and she can try to help.
thanks Dean, you're the man
Thats awesome
I'm curious. Do you know if the Corruption in the Venezualan Government is better, worse, or the same as when Hugo was in power?
Man this is killer! Glad Cleet seen it, and thanks for sharing the awesome info brother!
Would be cool for your wife to contribute in saving this machine!
Paul is a gem. I don’t know why, but I was a little moved by listening to him impart his wisdom and knowledge to you guys. He is a smart dude who is sharing his passion with the next generation. Do not under value your relationship with him. He is a good guy. This is so cool to watch.
Yeah the fact he wasn't trying to blow smoke up Garrets ass speak's volume's.
Definitely, love when someone is knowledgeable and passionate about what they do or their interests/hobbies. The run down he gave on condition was very cool
He sounds like Sam. Are they brothers ? 😂😂
Not every sees all, and just a nice guidance can save a lot of hassle.
He was genuinely excited to welcome Cleetus to MD ownership. A true enthusiast!
the people of western north carolina are extremely grateful for your help during the aftermath of the hurricane your generosity touched a great many lives thank you so much and for all the others who helped
Yeah I’m here just watching because I seen his rescue video.
@@Dr.Gunsmithme too.
@@Dr.Gunsmith the same here
PLEASE get pics/videos of the refurbishment process! What a beautiful unit. Congrats on the new addition to the auto family.
He's a RUclipsr I'm sure he will
@@egypthobby So is Dave Sparks, and his projects just showed up done. I'm guessing Thoroughbred isn't letting camera crews just hang out unfortunately.
@@mayshackwhat do you mean, “the more he records, the more he writes off”?
@@HughWoohe means the more videos he does on it. The more money he receives to put against the initial purchase. So hopefully the plan will be the helicopter will pay for itself
@@HughWooit eventually pays for itself with videos about it. It's not that difficult to understand.
From exhaust pipe whistles to an empire bringing happiness to millions. Truly inspiring! Fly safe, best wishes to you all from England. (Congrats to maddy and garrett on the new baby too!!! )
Imagine if he put exhaust pipe whistles, on the 500!!!!
I remember watching the first videos!
Too good to see, that in the modern world, you can make it by doing crazy fun shit.
@@rcmike09 10m subs overnight
i really respect sam always jumping in and buffing/shining things. even if it is the inside of a shipping container. doesnt matter what job someone has you want the man with the work ethic like that.
If someone had a team of Sam’s (even at his age) they would be unstoppable!
The man himself can’t be stopped so imaging 20 Sam’s!!!
Just found your site by accident and almost fell out of my chair. After my tour with the US Army, I moved to Culver City California in 1965 and ended up working for the aircraft division of Hughes Tool Co. I first noticed, sitting in the back corner of your hanger, what appears to be another Hughes 2 seater which at that time was designated the 269A helicopter. My job at Hughes was the tail boom assembly. Later when the fore-runner of your MD, the 369A, was introduced I was transferred to the engine shop and promoted to crew chief. Hughes sent 3 of the 369A LOH helicopters to Viet Niam daily and it was my job along with my crew of 2 other guys to have these great little ALLISON engines ready for the assembly line. I am sure there have been some great improvements in these engines since then but it brought some great memories after serving my time in the Army and then still be able to support the troops. I am now 83 and still kicking it. Can't wait to see your journey getting the MD in the air!
Awesome story, glad you shared it 🍻
Amazing story, young sir // Thank you for your service and wish you good health. 🫡
Paul was an incredible guest. His level of expertise was evident and he made this video super interesting to watch from a layman's perspective. I learned a tiny bit about helicopter construction and maintenance in this video and have a whole new level of respect for the aircraft.
He left out the biggest plus, it was never crashed.
Same!
Cleetus “. I got a great deal on it “
Jimmy in the background. Rolling on the floor laughing
Paul. “ it’s not that expensive. “. Relatively speaking. 💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸💸🐊 LoL 😂
Seeing Maddie attitude around Garrett just solidifies their destiny together. You can tell all she wants is to be a wife and mom to a successful man and his children. She never presses for camera time and is humble as all get out when it's around.
Ole cleeter skeeter truly got his round this round of life.
Nice seeing genuine excitement about getting something new as a RUclipsr. So many “look at my new car” videos that turn into 6 months later a giveaway or are sold down the road after the “this isn’t going anywhere speech.” This is genuinely a dude excited about getting something and his buddies are just as stoked for him. Good stuff!
Everybody likes a good "well I bought something sight unseen through a third party from Venezuela, let's see if I got hosed" video.
Who the hell would have thought that this stripped out venezuelan chopper would be completely overhauled and save lifes in NC, outstanding turn of events, this guy Cleetus is truly an amazing human being
Amen 🙏✝️🙏
As a former Blackhawk crew chief. I'm seriously loving this aviation content. Really brings back awesome memories of wrenching on these whirly birdies. Yall ever need a place to land in South GA. Hit me up.
You're the only one chief.
shut up@@slappi2997
Are those Blackhawks really as Tough as I hear?
67TF, I was at Camp Page in the late 80's. 👍
@fast97z24 don't like it.... go start your own racing channel. As far as I'm concerned, it's his channel, he can post whatever content he wants. I for one, along with many others will continue to watch both the aviation content, and the racing content. Seriously. If you don't like it... don't watch, much less comment....
Jackstand is the friend everyone needs , he’s being soo positive about the purchase which was a huge risk and he’s keeping Cleetus optimistic and being super excited and pulling for his boy the whole time , just happy for him and not a Debbie downer , just a good friend and happy for his boy !!🤘🏻🤘🏻👍👍👍
I had this same thought watching this. Dudes just there telling him how awesome things are and keeping spirits up. Exactly the kinda dude you need in your corner when you jumping into a risky big project, a motivator to keep you going.
You called it spot on
100%
Cleetus has done an awesome job assembling the team he has around him. They are all top notch at what they do.
Oh and that was funny, Matty what color should it be? Blue, Blue it is.
Jackstand may be one of many co-owners. I believe Hes in on more than people think, I remember him signing things at Motion raceworks. Hes clearly more than just the head mechanic.
Customs seized the wood crates because they have very specific criteria on treated wood to kill pests. The wood has to be treated to prevent to risk of invasive species coming into the country.
not just treated but also must be certified FSA to enter. has made shipping a PIA in lots of places as the cost for other materiel's is high as is the weight for metal bracing. We get lots of crates from Portugal and it's all metal crating now, takes 2 containers now when it used to take 1.
A riot, Our gubmint has issues with the type of wood that comes into the US, But lets every tom dick and jose cross over the borders unchecked. We are loaded with "invasive species" every day that goes by.
@@johnsheridan6452that can’t be cheap either 😤😤
Facts! We ship engines using plastic pallets and crates when shipping out of the country
Here I figured they seized them because they thought there were missiles inside. 😅
God gets all the glory that you have this chopper in such a time as this! He picked you to save and minister to his children in South Carolina! God bless you!
Port of Miami doesn't have an issue with crates per say, but it's an issue with wood boring insects that come from other countries that can be very very invasive to the US. Good luck with the purchase!
Seems that they have an issue with the straps, they are talking about the wooden crates and they have to move all the wood around the helicopter, not the "third world country" only fault.
Would the port not have to move the body out to get the crates out first?
If you look at the early pictures, the main body was in back of container, so the whole load was reloaded, they used the wheels and just wheeled it around! Lol
@@callummartin5481 they did
We need more of Jackstand on the camera and his infinite wisdom! "If you can't tie a knot, tie a lot!" And "don't stand in the circle" as the winch is pulling tight! 😂
That advice sounded like it came from experience. Bet he's seen somebody stand in the circle before
@@eddominates dude, HE has been the one stood in the circle for sure!
Loved seeing Jimmy's world in the vid too, true man of aviation right there with his elvis jet/camper
Here after you saved lives flying rescue operations. Thank you Cleetus! God Bless!
No movie or TV show can't beat the straight up good vibes and characters you put yourself around Cleet! Some real guys you lot!
"Oh... hi Maddie..." 😂
Great job Jackstand with filming and commentary, with all the excitement going on, did a top job. Cant wait to see the refurbishment, will be awesome to see Cleet flying it for the first time.
Love this content! I am an A&P and the Director of Quality/Chief Inspector for a 135 and 145 rotorcraft operation. MD500 looks good so far! Praying the powerplant is clean. Cheers, and keep up the amazing content.
As you know Helo are not Cheap to keep in the air, MANY years ago I was the Leed Technician on the SH 3D and the SLEP,.... /VH3 D Programs Cost a lot of money to keep in the air and More on the ground.
What engines are in those?
K24
These are my favorite aircraft. Well made and super reliable.
As an A&P I've done a few pre/post-buy inspections and this one looks cherry. You can tell a lot by how clean it's been kept. This looks to have definitely been well taken care of. I've seen them come from over seas looking like they were used to plow farms and appeared to have never been even swept out after hauling livestock. I imagine the repairs to get it airworthy will be minimal. Get all new glass in front. You can polish out the hazing, but it's much safer to have new glass (bad glass will actually make your eyes super tired). Nice find.
You had the right guy inspecting her, he really knows what he’s doing. It’s great to see someone who has knowledge and experience.
The landing gear dampers were flattened to fit her in the shipping container.
Congrats man, your going to absolutely love her, you got a good ship there.
The helicopter was the cheap part. Once airworthy, we'll know if it was a deal or not. Good luck to him.
He def paid attention and explained what and why he was looking for.
What he pay for that thing delivered?
Yes! I always enjoy hearing a real professional talk about whatever it is they're passionate about.
An hour special! Lets freaking GO!
I’m at work too perfect timing 😅
Wow..a helicopter...who cares if it needs work. You woulda had to go through it anyway! Thats very cool even if it is a lil sketch, ha! Its always interesting what FF comes up with. Thanks for the hour long vid! 🚁
Ya but it’s about a POS helicopter
I wouldn't call this a "special." The first 30 minutes were them saying the same thing over and over and over and over and over. We get it. You got a helicopter. Watching people unload stuff off a truck is not my idea of "entertainment."
@@Snikpoh1390 then stop watchin and complainin....need some cheese to go with that whine? 🍷🧀
Good to see Paul still at it. I used to work with him shooting movies. I was a camera Tech/Operator back then. Fun times 😁👍.
4:10 "Could be the best purchase of 2024." North Carolina liked that.
Thanks for the longer form video so we could understand exactly what the situation is with this helicopter. Man I hope all the Engine and Mechanicals are good. will watch with close interest.
I Love how supportive and how happy Maddie is to see Garrett fired up. I luv it. And im glad she dozent mind being on camera proves how great ole. CLeet is
where'd you learn to type
Yeah, I wouldn't be mad either if my spouse had the money and bought a helicopter lol
REAL MARRAGE means you LIKE WHAT MAKES YOUR OTHER HALF HAPPY !!! AND SEEING THEM HAPPY MAKES YOU HAPPY !!! ;) not spoosed to be filled with anger and discontent!!! SPOOSED TO BE ALL GOOD AND AWESOME TIMES !!! with only a couple major and a few more minor storms along the WHOLE OF THE RELATIONSHIP !!! not spoosed to be RELATIONSHIP SAILING IN STORMY WATERS!!! THAT DO NOT GET ANYTHING OTHER THAN STORMY AT ALL TIMES!!! :)
I LIKE HOW THEY already have the center seat labeled for da kidz! LOL
idk how her and Cleet met but that day was a blessing! She only ever helped him pursue his motorsports and video making dreams and we're all just as lucky as they are. Whether it be on this end or not!
I live in Venezuela and the helicopter has most likely not been flown in years because the government pretty much forbid the use of private helicopters (unless you have powerful connections) and the amount of legal restrictions makes having private planes or helicopters pretty much impossible for everyone except the most wealthy.
If the owner flew that helicopter at some point in the mid 2010's he's probably a very powerful person.
I highly doubt that's true lol.only reason it wasn't flown was because the rotor top was stolen 😂😂.
Probably why Cleetus only spoke to a middle man. A layer of insulation. Good info right here.
The owner definitely was someone in power! My wife is from Venezuela, and I hope that someday soon that the country will start to find peace and the government will get taken back by the people.
Or a wealthy runescape gold seller
@@jerrywilcox9890someone who took such good care are of it could’ve bought a new one if they wanted too. Most likely took the excuse to upgrade.
I just wanna say I loved everyone's energy in this video. My grandmother passed away yesterday, I've been very down. Watching this video made me laugh & smile up a storm watching yall unload it to inspecting the helicopter. Thank you, Cleet, for providing top-notch quality content. You have no idea how much this video helped me out today. Reminder for everyone, reach out & check in on your loved ones ❤️
well we are a community of great folks that just want to lift one another up and share Love sweet Love to everyone and all of us !!I'm so sorry for yer loss.... we Love you like Family! God Bless u ! and thanks fer sharing such an honst and sacred emotion! we all have pain ...i just lost my lil sister 37 yrs old from drug/alcohol overdose and that was really bad she was beatiful person...mees her so moch
God Bless and sorry for your loss!!
So sorry!!! My grandma was the best.. there is no way to replace her … but a lifetime of great memories makes me smile
So sorry for your loss prayers for you and your family
@scrotiemcboogerballs1981 Thank you! It's means a lot. Ps, love your username 🤣
Men like Paul don't live to a long age unless they are remarkable. It's fun to watch Cleet absorbing the knowledge. Paul is an American legend, and Garrett is harvesting the goodness while walking in footprints. God bless you guys.
the mechanic is one of those really cool, calm, intelligent guys that ya wish ya had as a friend.
I used to have a 500D. 500s are the most fun you can have in a helicopter. Also I used to build police cars. I have a 2011 Crown Vic owners manual in the shrink wrap if you want it as a souvenir.
Cleet, give this feller a job!
That Crown Vic handbook has gotta be worth a lap around the Freedom Factory.
Cletus is the last person who needs anything else in this world
Dude. Your channel has become the most awesome since you started flying RC and helicopter!👍👍👍
Save that puppy until the Cleetus McFarland museum opens up.
I worked at Hughes Helicopters from 1983 to 1984 and I think I may have designed the trapezoid shaped side plates on the outer ends of the T-tail. The hardest part was laying out the lettering. Oh yeah, this was all on 34 inch X 44 inch size E paper drawings in pencil done on a big drafting table. No computers then. The MD is for McDonnell Douglas, which bought Hughes Helicopters around 1984, and is why I left. They moved the plant from Culver City, CA to Mesa Arizona and I didn't want to go. Eventually, Boeing bought McDonnell Douglas and I don't know who makes the 500 now, which was known as the 369 internally (I have no idea why).
369 (model 369) was the prototype of the military OH-6, I believe and the 500 is civilian
s/n: 0141E Built: 1985
Very good buy. Sb's & CEB's might be pricey but man you got a good deal.
That’s awesome man, cool story. I bet it’s cool for you to see this kind of stuff after working and designing on helicopters 👍
It's was spun off as "MD Helicopters" and is now owned by a private equity firm.
never seen cleetus so excited on this channel ever. its like a kid that got everything he wanted for christmas and is opening all his presents
When I first saw Consuela after she was off the truck she looked literally happy. She's like a puppy that found a good home. After being painted and repaired, she beamed! She will serve you well.
From one of my favorite car channels to now one of my favorite aviation channels. You guys are killing it. You set the example that this is not a game, it is serious and takes significant attention to detail, time and money to do things safely.
Nothing wrong with joking along the way, it is easy to see that behind the scenes you guys do things right.
Was very surprised to see Jimmy there in this one. Such a cool thing to see an aviation guy there with you for this one.
Being a former helicopter avionics technician in the Army, I am so glad to see you doing more and more aviation videos.
I love how RUclips suggested this to me again after Consuela put in work out here. Wish I could’ve made it to Hickory to shake your hand, you’re a good man and saved lives in these mountains. ❤
As a YT viewer and fan of the channel, I'm stoked at all the great things going on in your life and it sure adds enjoyment to ours! The MD500 will be an absolutely awesome addition!
For future reference, in case you need to do something like this again, jack it up and sit it on like 5 pieces of heavy wall pipe (I'd use 2" rigid conduit, but that's because I'm an electrician, I'm sure rollcage tubing would work just as well) as rollers. Hook it up to a come-a-long if you have to let it down an incline like this. 3 men could EASILY unload that thing that way. Two to push/pull the load, one to man the come-a-long and reset the rollers (as it rolls off one, put it back in front to start over). I've moved 20,000-lb transformers, switchgear, etc. (often multi-millon-dollar equipment) with 2-4 guys a hundred times that way. Very controllable and safe. You can steer it because the 'contact patch' between the unit and the rollers is tiny and slides easily, and you can kick the rollers to straighten them up when they get a little crooked, and if you have like five, two or three of them are just 'safeties' depending on the weight.
us farmer types call this the egyptian style of moving heavy things haha
Small contact with high pressure by rigid would most likely dent the skids. A&P two weeks before turning 21. Last Dec. 23 awarded my 45 year pin as a I.B.E.W. Inside Wireman
@@R90scj I have 17 in so far (IBEW 317 Journeyman Inside Wireman). I suppose it could dent, but I was guessing helicopters are pretty lightweight and the skids are probably pretty strong to withstand less-than-perfect landings. When in doubt, add more rollers, haha!
Things I like about this video: 1) Finding the transport wheels inside the helo...after transporting the helo. 2) Paul's high speed , low altitude arrival. 3) And best of all, the boy and his new toy look on Cleetus's face throughout the entire video...priceless!
That landing was badass, I have a feeling Paul could land just about anywhere, he is one with his machine
Awesome, the MD-500 (hopefully with the old authentic Hughes 500C tail and not the T-tail shape) is one of the most beautyful helis ever designed. And iconic star in many TV shows like MacGyver. Good luck with your new heli.
So so cool.
Some brief googling suggests its potentially spent some time in Switzerland, if its the same aircraft theres a picture of it online while HB-XZG. Was crashed apparently but obviously rebuilt.
0141E
H-369E
Bj. 1985
Engine: Allison 250-C20
Hughes Helicopter Inc, Mesa, Arizona
N5227C
000887 reg'd N75NH Nanticoke Homes Inc, Greenwood, Delaware
090591 reg'd N75NH Aircraft Trading Center Inc, Jupiter, Florida
001091 canc N75NH
051192 reg'd HB-XZG Heli Neuchatel SA, Les Eplatures, Switzerland
110994 dam HB-XZG at Steingletscher, but rebuilt
021296 canc HB-XZG
130597 reg'd N75NH Cherokee Aviation Inc, Midlothian, Texas
210597 canc N75NH exported to Venezuela
YV-1043P
YV2018
Paul is an absolute bottomless pit of knowledge and skill. Absorb as much as you can from him!
I appreciate the positive stuff at the end about the safety. That isn't something that can ever have the corners cut on.
It's going to transport his family, they're priceless so no point cutting corners especially in aviation!
@@dddddyyn there is nothing in this video about the helicopter being crashed?
@@jasonguessedit it comes up when you do a registration check
@@jasonguesseditthere’s a previous comment mentioning the multiple numbers (tail numbers?) the helicopter has had. One of the tail numbers had reported that the helicopter had been in a crash and destroyed
@@JR-uc1of They rotate tail numbers around as it changes owners and the previous one is released, just like car license plates are rotated around too. That tail number must of been registered to some other aircraft that crashed. This one obviously has never been crashed if you see the whole video. Don't skim it. Watch it all.
I'm a retired law enforcement helicopter pilot from North Alabama, and this video just got my blood pumping like it hasn't in... well, ever. I'd love just to stand back and watch this thing go back together. 🤠
Car guy buys ratty old helicopter. What are the chances he has any idea what kind of can of worms he just opened...
I noticed your location. I'm in Florence and my wife and I own an RV park just off Savanah Hwy in Florence on the old cr 23 which is at the end of Cox Creek Parkway. I say all of that to say if you are ever in the area, I would love to share aviation stories with you. I'm retired now, Former USAF & FAA Air Traffic Controller plus ATP fix wing pilot for various corporations. I've always wanted to get a rotorcraft add on to my license..... Take care, God bless you and your family. Hank (Florence AL RV Park)
@@hankcarter1021 We have a nephew (age 8) in Savanah, so we go that direction fairly often. Sounds like a great idea. I soloed in my dad’s 172 at age 16, and have loved flying even before that. Save us a seat. We’d absolutely love to.
Come on dude. . . . . You’re a retired Law enforcement chopper pilot, I’m sure you’ve got some pretty exciting story’s that got the blood pumping ,it is just in the moment you need to keep your head while it’s just pumping like crazy , while here there is no risk :)
It can pump, pum,p pump away
LMAO throwing your brother down like that. 😂
His brother is a doctor, even dentists cant operate straps xDD
I laughed cause right before I said I hope Parker’s long tail boat don’t show up with that strap job and then cleeter roasted him lol
To be fair every time i try to use a strap it becomes permenently mangled immedietly and youre better off buying new ones. I guess im just better at stocks compared to straps. Id rather not know how to use a strap and then never accidentally buy 1,000,000 shares instead of 100,000 you feel me?
Haha shots fired!
I was about to comment about that. Hardcore calling Parker out 😂
Gotta respect Paul and the knowledge and passion that dude has for helicopters. Really cool to watch him do his thing
Seeing ole Cleet this happy makes me smile like a proud brother. Garrett has done so much for the car community and all of us viewers it’s literally like living in a dream sometimes. Regardless to say, no one deserves to have things more than you buddy! Thanks for letting us tag along for the awesome ride🤘
You would be happy too spending millions on toys with gifted money..living the life
@@howardt1317don’t be a jealous guy it gets you no where
As a structural technician, I got to replce the pilots side windshields on F-4E. Loads of fastners to loosten and remove, carefully scraping off the old PR 1422 using a scraper fabricated and sharpened from a 1" thick old pollycarbonat window pane.
With the light construction of the MD500, I'd expect the windows to contribute to the actual structural integrity of the frame. So it's a delicate slow process.
Wow! Those MD’s are so nice. Can’t wait to see it. I know it won’t be a quick process. So much work maintaining helicopters. Best of luck! I hope it’s as nice internally as it looks outside.
Damn I didn't even realise this is an hour long video, that just flew by! I absolutely LOVE listening to older guys who really know their stuff when it comes to technical things - I could listen to them talk all day!! That seems to be a gorgeous heli that you have got for yourself, here's hoping the inspection goes well and nothing nasty creeps up to bite you! I'm SO jealous - I've always loved the MD500 and wish I could fly one, they look like SO much fun!!
Someone I grew up with, who was one of my best friends his entire life was trained as an A&P mechanic, later becoming an inspector. He gravitated towards helicopters & worked at Hughes for some time. He worked in a number of different areas, so he could get a well rounded knowledge base.
This was in the '80's, so could very well have had hands on that bird.
Keep yours eyes peeled for KJ in very inconspicuous places. He exceled in body skin work & later worked on the proto-type B1 Stealth bomber in the skin dept.
He became expert enough in Hughes birds he used to get flown off to the oceans around Tahiti for 6 months stints of repairing & inspecting birds used in the tuna industry. He'd be at sea for 6 months, come back w/ his pockets full, then go back when he wanted.
The funny thing was, growing up, he was horsechit as far as anything mechanical, but he was into aviation. Got his license at 16; we went flying in high school.
Never got rated for helo's, though.
He did become an extremely competent A&P.
You scored on that bird, if you got a better than good price. Congrats.
GeoD
What a privilege it is to have a knowledgeable man like Paul going over that helicopter.
Drop the “privilege” and change it to honor please
😂
Dude what an awesome video, watching this rollercoaster of emotions and energy coming from all you guys was so fun to watch. Because it was such a gamble and unknown, you can just see that everyone is so stoked but at the same time so stressed out with the straps and packaging of everything. Then hear comes good ole paul to put everyones mind at ease with all the reassurance and info you could need to just relieve your worries and show just how epic of a project this is. I really hope you document as much of this thing as you possibly can. Then do a full in depth walk through of whats been done and why it was done and hopefully that includes Paul again and it would be sweet to see him fly it with you or even help out on getting it dialed.
@59:42 we see "Tha Dale Truck" safely tucked away in the hangar,, GOOD on ya Cleetus!
The Jimmie Spencer truck. Good to see it's safe and sound.
@@mikehatch2114what’s currently on the truck right now?
Heart of the operation
Dang! Next years Freedom 500 prize?
If he puts that bird up as the prize, the following year is either gonna be mullet or the freedom factory lol. Let's just all keep our eyes peeled 👀
He gonna wanna have a collection
Congratulations, this is awesome! Glad Jimmy was there with you to see it. And Consuela is a perfect name.
I am very glad you had that talk at the end. I really am glad that you are making sure that bird is air worthy and not cutting corners too.
This is an EXPENSIVE project. An airworthy used
Chopper may cost less than rebuilding this chopper, just saying.
@cleetus and team... bro i just subbed i had to i just ran across your channel and i can not tell you how hard all you guys hit me. Im 47 years old and i used to have awesome friendships like you guys have doing these same things and tbh allll of my friends I've had has passed away over just a few years period and it's just extremely hard finding friends and making a whole new group such as we had and you guys remind me so much of all of us. Bro it's a gift from god to have friendships like this and you wouldn't cherish it unless it was gone and ima tell ya I've suffered nothing but loss all my life and i wanted you guys to know you've brought me some joy back in my life just being yourselves and reminding me of times I've had with them
Here's to 2024 being a great year bro!
Man it's never too late for new opportunities. Still got plenty of time mate! Hope you have a good day and yeah, it is fun to live vicariously through these!
helicopter dude seems like a fun dude to hang out with that you could learn a ton from just by being around and helping out
That's Jimmy from Jimmy's world. He's got a great channel. He rebuilds airplanes
@@brettpomeroy6804 No, i think he meant the other dude, the guy that was actually talking about the chopper and inspecting it. LOL Jimmy is a cool dude but he isnt a helicopter guy at all
Good to hear you brought it to the best to have it built and maintained. I worked for bluegrass aviation for quite a few years, I live probably 35 minutes away from their main hangers.
I'm glad you are seeking professional help. Paul is a very knowledgeable MD guy. It will be interesting to see what has to be done to make it airworthy.
What a solid transmission! This video is incredible. Cleet, squirrel, and Jackstand are extremely fun guys to watch on the tube!
When Cleet is talking at the back of the trailer about this being a "come up" his voice is on the verge of cracking, and that smile was one I recognized right away... Thats a $hyte eating grin...
Love it brother!
I worked these while stationed at Fort Eustis, VA. Then I worked on these while assigned with the Night Stalkers. I was the Maintnance Supervisior on these, visited the Huges Helicopter, monitered assembly of said airframes; met the almost finished product at the Palomar to conduct the main blade tracking and paperwork changeout from civilian to military standard. After all of that, performed the acceptance flight; then flew the new craft to Camp Pendleton, loaded up the ship on a C-130 for Lakhurst, NJ. That's all I can tell you. Check your Truss System.
Yep, you know how they work and can fix them. Never be able to afford one though. Go figure🙃
Thank you for your service!
All of that and just: 'Check your Truss system'?
You've got to give us more than that!
@@scottlowson7344 How about some respect for our military men and women.
SEASPRAY?
On Sept 11, 1994, that baby was involved in a bad wreck over in Switzerland. MD 500E(369E) with s/n 0141E. Make sure your chosen MRO does a thorough inspection before you place yourself and any of your loved ones in that thing.
Yup. As an A&P (Factory trained and certified in multiple helicopters), it’s verified that this bird was wrecked. Do your due diligence and knock out a great inspection and overhaul. Fly safe brother.
Just 3 years earlier to the date, 3k people were killed in an intentional accident.
@@yeeebayeeba4268 Only 3k?!
I’m so glad you chose to record your life! Cleet, you have the BEST content on the TUBE! We are so close to getting to the Leroy body vid and I cannot wait! Keep on keepin RUclips alive brother!!
34:20 love the f&f "ejecto seato" from Zach🤣🤣
I live 15mins outside of lexington and have my A&P working on mostly military stuff. Thoroughbred are good people are some of the best at what they do. This thing will end up in top shape!
15 mins outside Lexington in a Crown Vic, in Neighbor, or an MD500?
I live about 45 minutes away from them heard really good things about them!
@@pistonburner6448 huh?
@@dsprecision4782 "I live 15mins outside of lexington"
15 mins is not a measure of distance so I made a joke about what it takes you to travel 15 mins in to get to your home from Lexington
@@pistonburner6448 ahh ok lol I didnt understand the neighbor part so it threw me off. I guess lexington side of winchester in a ls swap s10 watching for bumps and potholes makes more sense then?
Helicopters have always fascinated me. I have an older RC helicopter that I need to finish repairs on. When I first tried to fly it, I would over corect and crash it. Now, with all the practice on the 4 blade drones, I need to get it working again and see if I can fly it any better now. But todays drones with 4 blades balance themselves out so much now. But I have gotten a lot better at it. I'm not as good as those people who race the drones. I've practiced a lot with the small indoor drones that can be thrown around when the heater comes on. LOL
But I just really haven't had the time for all that lately.
Helicopters require skill- but hang in there and practice. It's possible to have the gyros overcompensate- I like to configure RC helicopters with only a one axis gyro and use old school skill. Remember, it's like balancing an inverted broom on your finger- small movements and anticipate what you need to do. You'll get it- after a while it just "clicks" and you reach enlightenment.
So happy and excited for Cleetus. So far it looks like a good deal. Lets hope the engine and transmission is good also.
Great that Cleetus and an invaluable asset in Paul and his expertise with MD's.
Hopefully the hour long videos are the new standard. Maybe one hour Monday's???
Ya and not about helicopters would be nice
@@Freddy_Confetti Helicopters are badass. I'd rather see helicopters than STOL drag racing. That's so sketchy 🥴
@@Freddy_Confetti Agreed. The first 30 minutes of this video was a snooze fest.
@@Freddy_ConfettiIt was interesting video.
@@Freddy_ConfettiNo one forced you to watch it ;)
You got the coolest helicopter out there! I flew police helicopters for 20 years and have flown many models. The MD 500E is the badass of them all, can’t wait to see what you do to her, congrats!
I just came across your channel, and I love it! I have one idea regarding the color if you haven't decided yet: Vantablack. It's the darkest known black with 100.0% light absorption. We're talking black hole black. That would look freaking awesome streaking across the sky, especially if you use a highly reflective paint for the tail numbers. Just a thought!
Jackstand is awesome. “Can’t tie a knot. Tie a lot!” lol😂😂
I share your excitement! What a great team! Maddie's hands on Zac's arm shows you're a family. Love it!
Nice Barn Find!! It's great that you have someone like Paul to look over your purchase and give you advice. Thoroughbred Aviation will get that thing in top shape for you to enjoy!
Dude, not a gambling sponsor but a mental health sponsor!! Thank you for genuinely caring about your community.
Dude you have the best helicopter guy. I could listen to him talk about this shit for hours
I agree lol..
there is a hella lot of knowledge and experience there, he knows his shit.
@marvindebot3264 yeah you can tell by the way he just dives in on it. I didn't even know the skids had any form of dampening before this video. It seems obvious now but that's the kind of stuff I love, hearing someone share their knowledge on something as interesting as a frickin helicopter.
Hey Cleet, congrats on the new addition im hoping that the inspection goes well and the MD was a bargin, at this stage looks like you got a great deal. All the best and hopefully you will be flying her soon.
The amount of content this channel creates - cars, boats, aircraft, events - and the people it brings into the loop is just amazing. I can't wait to see the progress on this, and the build.
Thank you, Consuela ❤
Gotta be honest, I don’t think I seen this coming.. freaking awesome 👏 no click bait immediately to the action
From the first video with Paul I knew this was going to happen.
How the hell would you see cleetus buying an abandoned helicopter from South America coming ??😂😂 I’m pretty sure you don’t need to clarify with us that you have to be honest about saying you didn’t expect this 😂😂😂
Hope you guys all in pros to fix it cuz if not it’s gonna be like a certain helicopter wreck that happened a couple years ago.. js
It was in the background of one of the latest videos.
I knew a helicopter was coming but wasn’t expecting it to come from South America 😂
Its awesome to see an expert at his craft get excited for what this project could be. It clear that its something Cleet is truly great at, and its turning into my favorite part of this channel.
I was soooo happy to hear that it was going to Thoroughbred. What was Jimmy doing there? Is he like a genie that just shows up whenever theres an abandoned aircraft around?
That's what I was thinking😂
that was going to be my first suggestion; take her up to Thoroughbred Aviation because Dave Sparks is one of their loyal customers (I suspect that Dave actually suggested them TO Cleet!)
Yes
More than likely the, "middle man"
Who knew what "Fate" had waiting for this aircraft. A place in history. Saving our fellow Americans from a catastrophic nightmare. Sometimes, there are no words to express what needs to be said ! May the Good Lord always bless you and your family and keep you safe !❤
This bird has lots of history, and stories to tell. Tail YV2018 Hughes 369E ('500E') 0141E N5227C, N75NH, HB-XZG, N75NH, YV-1043P, YV2018
I checked the same thing, I saw a rebuild but I can't tell if it was this unit?
Stupid purchase... this thing is a death trap
@@justinsk1 - Saying it's a "stupid purchase and a death trap" without providing reasons why you feel this way, is a baseless assertion. Please explain why you feel it's a stupid purchase and a death trip, especially when it was explained that the MD is going to be gone through and restored by a company that professionaly restores MDs.
@@KD0LRG I translated the 1994 accident report from Switzerland. It says it was "totally destroyed" after hitting a building while landing but everyone survived. The summary says only "heavily damaged, but rebuilt" so maybe someone was being dramatic but the detail report describes it rolling over on the ground after contacting the building. Interestingly it was originally sold to Mexico, found it's way to Switzerland, back to Texas, then sold to Venezuela.
@@justinsk1 if i had a dollar for every time someone said that about one of my projects........ :D
This is incredible, not the fact that you have it but it remained intact in a 3rd world country that FAILED. Those people were starving and the country was completely lawless for a time. Stripping this thing for parts and selling it would have helped alot of people. I'm just amazed it survived. I think you should keep the Venezuela flag on it and go with Georges name. The fact that it survived in this good of a condition is more like divine intervention than anything. It deserves its own commemorative plaque and guiness book of world record award.
Cleetus: Cancels jet car out of safety concerns.
ALSO Cleetus: Buys sketchy sight unseen overseas abandoned helicopter.
Wondering what ever happened to the jet engine from the go kart truck he seized up the other year?
"ran when parked" 😆
@FastSS02 if cleetus is the same guy he's always been, that baby jet truck is probably still sitting in his garage lol
@@eddominates haha facts
@jcthecarpenter4767 well mullet was originally supposed to be a jet truck
Dude! You and your friends are so much fun to watch. Paul is such a PRO and knows his craft! Keep doing what your doing and be safe. Al
20 year A&P mechanic here. I have maintained this helicopter type in the field. I agree with your consultant. If the engine and main gearbox are good, you are in good shape. Consider keeping the leading edge tape on the main rotor blades. I have personally condemned two sets for leading edge erosion at the blade tips, ironically, operated by police agencies. The next large expense will be the mail rotor head. Those will be , I think, a hard to find item. Congratulations on what looks like a good purchase. Best of luck on the rebuild.
Friendly reminder that BetterHelp records all your information, including your messages with your therapist, and sells the information.
Friendly reminder, almost every company does the same thing.
but one is a lot worse when it is meant to be private @@savage6394
So does RUclips, Facebook, tiktok, instagram, and any other site you use, unfortunately.
TikTok is the Chinese spying on you and you letting them
Anyone who shares that shit online has just begun their real problem.
*37:20** I mean, that's a RIDICULOUS amount of hawks to have next to an airport.*
*crows... But yeah, I agree. 1:01:27
Looked like Turkey Vultures to me..
@@Sasqu73Exactly. This is Florida. Vultures might as well be our State Bird.
Bird strike !! Aghhh
It's not an airport that's his property at the freedom factory 😂😂.
I'm excited too. Good luck with your MD, Great helicopter and platform. I flew the OH6, predecessor to your MD500. I look forward to your progress.
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