Paco - It's true - cows have eaten Skeeter blades; they are attracted by the dope on the fabric.
Tail Bloater - I was only knee high when you were flying Skeeters. I was taught to fly the Skeeter by the late Major Francis Chamberlain who was an ex CFS Skeeter instructor - maybe you knew him! He told me many army/Skeeter flying stories, he also mention about damp cartridges and keeping them in one's pocket. Our Skeeter has only two mods. a radio upgrade and electric start, it's heaven and a lot cheaper; I think it was about £12 a shot last time we bought some cartridges.
www.Skeeter Heritage. co.uk
Hilico - Yes you probably right we nurse ours too! Gypsy top ends reving at 2860rpm only last 180hrs between o/h's.