by Chappy » Mon Jan 18, 2010 3:01 am
If the kits were for series IIIs (as stated in your title), then you would have Tedlar, not Mylar, film. Tedlar is a frosty appearing film, while Mylar is clear. Even though quite old, the Tedlar film should be good. I believe Dale Cramer personally flies a Lazair with the original Tedlar covering installed at his factory over 25 years ago. Tape condition would be the limiting element. Tedlar is quite difficult to come by so you might be surprised what you can get for it.
Actually, Mylar is quite stable and if not subjected to UV (direct sunlight) or ammonia gas (or liquid) should be good too. There just probably isn't anyone that would pay much of anything for it as most people won't consider it for covering anymore. It would still have value to draftsmen, modelers and crafters, and artists.
Any and all old tapes are strictly unusable, at least for our purposes.
Obviousely, anyone that uses such old material (film) is probably taking on some additional risk, but that risk would be something that we really don't have a handle on.
BTW, where are the kits located?
Chappy