1944 NORTH AMERICAN AT-6D
Description
1942 North American AT-6D Texan
Registration: N85696
USAAF Serial Number: 42-85696
Airframe Time: 4181.5
Tach Time: 771 Hours
This historically significant 1942 North American AT-6D Texan was originally delivered to the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Military records identify serial number 42-85696 as serving as an instrument trainer at Craig Field in Selma, Alabama in 1945.
Craig Field was one of the Army Air Forces’ major advanced training bases during the war. At facilities like Craig Field, pilots were trained in instrument procedures, radio navigation, and advanced flight techniques. Graduates from this program transitioned into frontline combat aircraft such as the North American P-51 Mustang and the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt. Aircraft like this AT-6D played a direct and important role in preparing Allied pilots for operational combat service during WWII.
Following its military service, the aircraft entered the civilian registry as N85696 and has since been preserved as a flying example of one of the most iconic advanced trainers ever built. For a period of time this aircraft was located at the Wings of the North Museum at Flying Cloud Field in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, where it was maintained and displayed as part of the museum’s historic aircraft collection.
The North American AT-6 Texan is widely regarded as one of the most rewarding and historically important warbirds to fly. Known for its balanced handling characteristics, powerful radial engine, and unmistakable sound, the AT-6 served as the final training platform for thousands of Allied pilots before they transitioned to combat aircraft.
During current ownership, the aircraft received a comprehensive avionics upgrade and panel modernization designed to improve reliability and operational capability while maintaining the aircraft’s historic character. The system was professionally installed with new wiring, antennas, and panel fabrication.
Upgrades include:
Garmin Aera 660 GPS with Americas database
Garmin GDL 50R ADS-B and GPS receiver with integrated AHRS
Trig TY92 VHF communication radio with TC90 controller
Trig TT22 Mode S transponder
Trig TN70A certified GPS position source
PS Engineering PM3000 stereo intercom
Garmin GA35 WAAS GPS antenna
Rami AV-17 communication antenna
Rami AV-74 transponder antenna
Garmin GSB-15 USB power port
New coax, connectors, and wiring throughout the avionics system
Newly fabricated and powder coated panels with laser-marked circuit breaker panel
Upgraded strobe system with Whelen A490ATSC power supplies
This modernization provides improved situational awareness and communications capability while preserving the aircraft’s authentic warbird flying experience.
Aircraft like this appeal to a wide range of owners including private collectors, museums, experienced warbird pilots, and organizations involved in living history and heritage flight operations. With its documented wartime training role, museum history, and modernized avionics suite, N85696 represents an authentic and highly usable piece of American aviation heritage.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a genuine World War II training aircraft with verified ties to the United States Army Air Forces pilot training program.
Serious inquiries welcome.Specifications
Year1944
ManufacturerNORTH AMERICAN
ModelAT-6D
Registration #N85696
Serial Number42-85696
ConditionUsed
Total Time4,181.5
Year1944|
ManufacturerNORTH AMERICAN|
ModelAT-6D|
Registration #N85696|
Serial Number42-85696|
ConditionUsed|
Total Time4,181.5|
