John R. Sandberg
John "Jack" R. Sandberg
John had a profound impact on the aviation world over the course of his 40+ years in the industry.
As many of you know, John devoted his life to building aircraft and advancing aviation technology. In the late 1950s, he was one of the few to score in the high 90s on United Airlines’ maintenance application for a job at the San Francisco location.
By 1966, John had earned his A&P, and in 1969, the FAA encouraged him to start an aircraft engine overhaul shop in the Plymouth, MN area. This company, originally named Metma Aircraft and later rebranded as JRS Engines. Metal Masters of Minneapolis (the precision parts company) was instrumental in the development of parts for the first moonwalk in 1969, with John's precision machine shop, Metal Masters, playing a key role in this groundbreaking project.
Metal Masters and JRS Engines: A Legacy of Precision and Innovation
From 1965 to 1991, Metal Masters was a premier precision machine shop that worked with leading aeronautical divisions to implement cutting-edge products in the aviation community. Collaborating with companies such as IBM, Honeywell, CDC, and many others, Metal Masters helped develop and refine key technologies that advanced the aviation industry.
JRS Engines, founded by John Sandberg, was renowned for its work in rebuilding and restoring engines for both the general aviation sector and larger aircraft engines, such as those used in B-25s, B-29s, P-51s, P-63s, and many others. In the late 1980s, Metal Masters under John’s leadership began designing new, custom parts for aircraft, particularly for those components that were no longer available.
John Sandberg’s passion for aviation restoration led to him rebuilding numerous iconic aircraft from scratch, including the Hellcat, Monk, Waco, T-6, P-63, T-28, and Stearman. Notably, he restored at least three P-51s and the Tsunami, his most famous creation. His unmatched skill in aircraft restoration made him a revered figure in aviation circles.
The Birth of Air Racing and Tsunami
In 1965, John’s passion for aviation took an exciting turn when he and his wife ventured out to one of the first air races. This sparked his interest in air racing and led to the purchase of a P-63 King Cobra.
Over the years, John experienced two major accidents—one in the Hellcat in 1965 and the other in the P-63 Cobra in 1969.
However, his determination and expertise ensured that both aircraft were rebuilt and restored to flying status. The Hellcat was eventually donated to the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and continues to fly in California, while the P-63 Cobra became a testbed for air racing modifications. John clipped the wings, engineered engine modifications, and even ran the Allison engine on alcohol at one point. It was said that he went through over 32 engines with various modifications in pursuit of performance.
Tsunami
The Birth of Tsunami
In 1979, John, along with Bruce Boland, set the stage for one of aviation’s most ambitious projects: building a one-of-a-kind aircraft for speed records and air racing. This collaboration led to the creation of the Tsunami.
To learn more about this incredible aircraft, please visit The Tsunami Project. The goal for the Tsunami was to set the 3km speed record for a private pilot in its class—a feat that hadn’t been accomplished since Howard Hughes’ HR-1.
A Legacy of Generosity and Dedication to Aviation
One of the defining traits of John Sandberg was his unwavering willingness to help others. As the late Lyle Shelton, owner of the Rare Bear, once said, "John put his money where his mouth was."
Shown here John Sandberg with Paul Poberzny of the EAA
Throughout his life, John made numerous contributions to the aviation community. Some of the most notable include:
John's Generosity Continues
- Commemorative Air Force (CAF): John donated a Hellcat aircraft, engines for the B-29, B-17, P-51, B-25, B-24, and many others. These donations are memorialized with plaques, and John’s dedication ensured that the engines he contributed were properly installed and tested.
- Engine Run-Ups: If John knew that an engine was being run up for the first time on an aircraft, he would personally ensure that everything was installed correctly or send one of his trusted engine specialists to oversee the process.
Upon his passing, Ralph Royce memorialized John, stating that he was one of the largest single contributors to the CAF, a testament to his lifelong dedication to aviation and to supporting the preservation of aviation history.
A Legacy That Reached Across the Aviation World
John Sandberg’s influence extended far beyond his shop doors.
His relationship with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) was one of trust, generosity, and shared vision. When EAA founder Paul Poberezny needed help, he called John—knowing he would deliver. John contributed significantly to the EAA’s mission, including:
- Donations toward the construction of the Main EAA facility
- Contributions to the Warbirds facility
- Engines for the B-17
- Parts and engine support for the XP-P-51, P-38, and F4U Corsair
When Paul sought to recreate a segment of Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis flight, he turned to John once again—for the engine and the in-route service and expertise to make the project a success.
Supporting Aviation Museums Around the World
John’s commitment to preserving aviation history wasn’t limited to one organization. The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, Lone Star Flight Museum, and Planes of Fame (East and West) were just a few of the institutions that received either donations or discounted engines and parts thanks to John’s generosity. His contributions ensured that historical aircraft could continue to educate and inspire generations to come.
Tsunami’s Impact on Air Racing and Innovation
From the moment Tsunami took flight, it wasn’t just a new race plane—it was a paradigm shift. The sleek, innovative aircraft challenged the entire air racing world. Competitors from all classes began re-evaluating their programs, pushing boundaries, and developing new technologies—many of which made their way into broader aviation advancements and everyday life.
At the time of John’s passing, companies such as Shell Aero and several others were prepared to sponsor and further the development of Tsunami and the visionary concepts John had in motion. His ideas were bold, forward-thinking, and full of promise.
A Fitting Farewell
When it came time to honor John’s memory, there was only one place that truly felt right: the Eagles Hangar at Oshkosh. It was there, among the machines and community he loved, that John’s memorial was held.
In the tribute video provided by EAA, John’s lifelong friend and aviation partner Paul Poberezny said it best:
"He achieved higher standards and set a goal many would never attempt to do. He was involved with many aviation organizations and gave of himself freely."