Wow, I hadn't seen this thread before. That project is amazing, I would have thought people would have flocked to get involved.
I have a suggestion, although I don't know if it will help with your time frame. I would be contacting vintage plane guys. Check to see if there's an old warbird club in your area. These guys tend to be retired with time on their hands and love projects like this. Or they know people who would be interested in helping out.
keep at it, you've got something very special going there.
- Chaz