CULVER CADET

1939’€“41

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Culver Aircraft Co. was formed to produce the Cadet (Models LCA/LFA), a two-seat aircraft derived from the Dart Model G, powered by either an 80-hp Franklin or 75-hp Continental engine.
  • The Cadet featured notable performance including a top speed of 140 mph, a 600-mile range, and a 17,500-foot service ceiling.
  • Civilian production of the wooden Cadet aircraft ceased in 1941 when the company shifted its focus entirely to military contracts.
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STANDARD DATA: Seats 2. Gross wt. 1,305. Empty wt. 730. Fuel capacity 20. Engine 80-hp Franklin or 75-hp Continental.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 140. Cruise mph 120. Stall mph 45. Initial climb rate 800. Range 600. Ceiling 17,500.

The Culver Aircraft Co. was formed to take over Dart Manufacturing Corporation’s production of the Dart Model G in 1939. A new aircraft, similar to the Dart in appearance, but smaller, was designed and soon became known as the Cadet. The aircraft was modified and in 1940 became the Model LCA. Production of the wooden aircraft lasted until the next year when the Culver company closed its civilian works to concentrate on military contracts. The LCA was powered by a 75-hp Continental engine, while a similar version, the LFA, was powered by an 80-hp Franklin four-cylinder engine.

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