Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
In this article Mike talks about reliability-centred maintenance (RCM) and how maintenance programs were developed for high levels of safety and performance. He points out that RCM is performed in all segments of aviation except the lower end community of General Aviation (think Cessna, Pipers, etc) versus the corporate business sector of GA.
After changing the engine oil and filter, ensure there are no leaks. Before starting the engine, check the oil level and verify oil pressure after starting. Taxi forward, make a turn, and check for oil trails. If there's a leak, investigate immediately. After a successful runup, check for leaks again. Never fly without these checks.
Carburetor ice can form even at higher ambient temperatures, potentially as warm as 100°F (38°C), due to significant temperature drops in the carburetor throat. However, it is most common when temperatures are under 70°F (21°C) and humidity exceeds 80%. Regular checks of carburetor heat are crucial for engine operation.
Bob Kirkby shares his journey as an aircraft owner, detailing the progression from a Mirage to a Cherokee 235 and ultimately to a PA12. He highlights the importance of matching aircraft to specific missions, discusses maintenance costs, and emphasizes the value of hands-on upkeep to preserve aircraft worth. Both ownership and enjoyment are central themes.
October provided great flying conditions with warm weather and light winds. However, I faced engine issues that turned out to be lead-fouled spark plugs, resolved after maintenance. Additionally, I explored the concept of "elementary maintenance," clarifying tasks owners can perform on their aircraft without AME approval, underscoring aircraft owner responsibilities.
February brings improved weather and optimism for flying, with only one day of flight logged this year. The AME school focuses on hands-on training, including aircraft inspections and avionics theory. Students learn critical log entry rules and the importance of independent inspections. Job hunting is underway despite economic challenges, and the need for articles for the Skywriter persists.
Aircraft bolts are crucial for design, construction, and maintenance. Only use certified AN/NAS/MS bolts for reliability. Proper tightening is vital; too loose risks failure, while over-tightening can weaken components. Safety locking methods are essential to prevent loosening. For comprehensive guidance, refer to AC 43.13-1B/2A and the "Motorbooks International" handbook.
The discussion highlights the complexities surrounding engine overhaul intervals, particularly for aircraft exceeding their Time Between Overhaul (TBO). Factors influencing TBO include maintenance practices and environmental conditions. Current regulations allow non-commercial aircraft to exceed TBO without mandatory changes, yet careful evaluation is advised to ensure safety and performance.
The Cessna 150 project is complete after a year of upgrades, including avionics, a new engine, and a conversion to key-start. The installation went smoothly, with improved performance and no leaks observed post-swap. However, the plane unexpectedly gained 35 lbs, complicating future flight training arrangements within legal weight limits.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 