Design Innovation and Construction
Moulton "Molt" Taylor's approach to amphibian design prioritized simplicity and affordability over complexity. Born in Portland, Oregon in 1912, Taylor had initially conceived a two-seat amphibian called the "Duckling" immediately after World War II, but shelved those plans to focus on his famous roadable Aerocar project. When he returned to amphibian design in the late 1960s, the result was far more practical and buildable than his earlier concepts.
The Coot's low-wing configuration served multiple purposes beyond aesthetic appeal. This design allowed the engine to be mounted in a lower position while simultaneously protecting the propeller from water spray during marine operations. Taylor incorporated his innovative TPG (Taylor Paper Glass) construction system, which used polyester resin to coat and seal laminated solid fiber cardboard components. This approach dramatically reduced building costs, as parts could be cut with simple hand tools like knives and shears rather than requiring expensive manufacturing equipment.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The Coot's GA(PC)-1 airfoil design incorporated full-length flaperons for optimal control authority across its flight envelope. With a wingspan of 36-37 feet and length of 20-22 feet, the aircraft achieved respectable performance figures for its era and category. The design's 1,200-pound empty weight allowed for a useful load of 750 pounds at its maximum gross weight of 1,950 pounds.
Fuel capacity varied between 24-50 gallons depending on builder preferences and mission requirements. This flexibility enabled cruise speeds ranging from 100-130 mph while maintaining stall speeds between 45-50 mph. The aircraft demonstrated impressive short-field capabilities with land takeoff runs of just 200 feet and water takeoffs accomplished in 10-12 seconds. Climb performance ranged from 600-1,000 feet per minute, providing adequate margin for obstacle clearance in confined areas.
Propulsion Innovation
Taylor faced a unique challenge when no suitable propeller existed for the Coot's long shaft and Flexidyne coupling system. His solution involved designing and manufacturing his own "Micro-Prop" propeller using Kevlar blades mounted on a mechanism resembling helicopter tail rotor hardware. This custom propeller provided controllable pitch adjustment and full reversibility, enabling remarkably short landing distances on both land and water.
Production and Market Success
Unlike many aircraft of its era, the Coot was never intended for factory production. Taylor marketed the design exclusively as plans for homebuilders, emphasizing basic wood construction techniques achievable with ordinary workshop tools. This approach made amphibian flying accessible to builders who lacked sophisticated manufacturing capabilities or substantial financial resources.
Aerocar initially handled marketing and plan sales, but around 1997, Richard Steeves assumed responsibility for the design's continued availability. Steeves had established credibility within the Coot community by launching the Coot-Builders Newsletter in 1975, which became an essential resource for builders and operators. His involvement ensured the design remained available to new generations of homebuilders well into the modern era.
International Recognition and Unique Achievement
The Coot's appeal extended far beyond American borders, with examples constructed in countries including New Zealand. Aircraft like ZK-ECL (construction number AACA/128) demonstrated the design's international viability when it was built in Kerikeri and registered on September 18, 1975. These international projects validated Taylor's emphasis on simple construction techniques that could be executed regardless of local manufacturing infrastructure.
The Coot holds the distinction of being the only amphibian design featuring a folding float-wing configuration. This innovative approach provided practical benefits for storage and transportation while maintaining the structural integrity required for marine operations. The feature contributed significantly to the design's popularity among homebuilders who faced hangar space limitations.
Legacy Within Taylor's Portfolio
While Taylor achieved greater fame for his Aerocar roadable aircraft, which earned Civil Aeronautics Administration certification in 1956, the Coot ultimately proved more successful in terms of actual aircraft construction and operation. His other designs included the single-seat Mini-IMP, the Aerocar IMP homebuilt derivative, and the high-performance Bullet with its fiberglass shell construction.
Despite being conceptually simpler than Taylor's other innovations, the Coot's practical design philosophy resonated with builders seeking reliable amphibian capability without excessive complexity or cost. The aircraft's enduring popularity decades after its introduction demonstrates the effectiveness of Taylor's approach to making specialized aviation accessible to individual builders and operators.