FEBRUARY 2007 VOLUME 34, NO. 2
The Official Membership Publication of The International Comanche Society
The Comanche Flyer is the official monthly member publication of the International Comanche Society P.O. Box 1810 Volume 34, No. 2 • February 2007 Traverse City, MI 49685-1810 U.S.: 888-300-0082 www.comancheflyer.com Other: 231-946-3712 Fax: 231-946-6180 Published By the International Comanche Society, Inc. Email: [email protected] www.comancheflyer.com Contents ICS President Lawrence Paratz 2 Letter From The President Lawrence Paratz Tel: + 61-3-9817-1222 E-mail: [email protected] Cover Story: Comanche Spirit Managing Editor ‘40P Finds a New Home Bill Yordy Kim Blonigen 4 E-mail: [email protected] 8 Headquarter Items for Sale Display Advertising Manager John Shoemaker Technically Speaking (800) 773-7798 Fax: (231) 946-9588 9 Online Intelligence — E-mail: [email protected] Empty Weight and Center of Gravity Trading Post & Classified Advertising Nancy A. Whitten 12 Call for Nominees and (800) 773-7798 2007 Nominating Committee Fax: (231) 946-9588 E-mail: [email protected] 13 ICS Board of Directors & Tribe Chiefs Graphic Design 2006-2007 ICS Standing Committees, Koren Herriman Tool Loan Program, and Technical Directors E-mail: [email protected] Printer 15 CFF-Approved CFIs Village Press 2779 Aero Park Drive Feature Stories Traverse City, MI 49685-0629 Getting The Most Out of Your Autopilot Dale Smith www.villagepress.com 16 ICS Technical Directors 18 The European Tribe – David Sheppard Bill Creech After 25 years, it’s still going strong Tel: (915) 581-3401 Fax: (915) 581-4176 20 The Man and the Machine Rick L. Hamilton E-mail: [email protected] Dave Gitelman ICS Convention — Tel: (585) 381-4785 (home) Cell: (585) 317-8446 Tacoma, Washington USA E-mail: [email protected] 24 Convention News Jay Hulbert ICS Tool Loan Program Flying to the Pacific Northwest Matt Kurke 10340 Regent Circle 25 Tour Snapshot: Tillicum Village Naples, FL 34109 Ph: (239) 593-6944 26 ICS Annual Meeting & The Comanche Flyer is available to members; Convention Registration Form the $25 annual subscription rate is included in the Society’s Annual Membership dues in 28 2007 ICS Convention Schedule US funds below. 29 ICS Convention Shirt Order Form USA, Canada & Mexico $66 per year 31 ICS Membership Form Europe & South Africa $89 per year 33 From the Tribe Chiefs All other Countries Incl. Australia $79 per year 40 Shoulder Harness Program Spousal Members $33 per year Tribe News – Cover Photo Bill and Karen Yordy’s Comanche 180 What’s Happening with the South West Tribe Copyright Notice 42 Comanche Gear Conduit Replacement Llyn Fulmer The act of making a submission for publication is an express warranty that such contribution 46 Comanche Classified does not infringe on the rights or copyright of ICS Name Badge Order Form others. Nothing appearing in the Comanche 47 Flyer shall be reproduced or distributed without 47 Advertiser’s Index the express permission of the publisher. Postmaster Send address changes to the above address. Periodical postage paid at Blaine, WA 98230 and at additional mailing office. ISSN 08994223
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • Letter From The President
am delighted that this column is an opportunity for me to report on some long-awaited and significant Comanche Inews. Even though it will be some months past by the time you read this, the Oklahoma City (OKC) office was successfully closed in early December. This was achieved by a willing band of volunteers, lead by Don Nelson. My thanks go to them for undertaking this necessary task. The significance of this cannot be understated. While the office had become identified with the Society, and we have had the benefit of some loyal employees over time, circumstances have not supported this method of working for quite a while. It was not easy for the Society to accept this decision, and the Board did not take it lightly. But, with the OKC monkey off its back, this allows the Society to move forward on the agenda of reforming the ICS and focussing on the services which benefit members. In some very real senses, this marks the start of the “new” ICS. The new ICS starts from a very different point, and in a very different world to the past. Our members are different (even if they are the same people in some cases), the global attitude to aviation is different, and the market position of our aircraft is different. Also, the fleet size just isn’t going to get any bigger. And the world is much more on-line and into interest “sound-bites” rather than the deeply reflective aspects of a more leisurely period. “The existence of a quality and formal A few days before Christmas Kerrie and I, joined by a number proficiency program of the Australian Tribe based around Victoria, had the pleasure of meeting and hosting a Swiss member, Wojciech Mirski in our home. Wojciech is flying right around the world in his for our type is a 1970 260C HB-OTF and had just arrived in Australia. You can follow his story at www.flying-doctor.ch. He had already travelled from Europe, through Africa into south-eastern critical strategic Asia, and travelled to some of the famous points in Australia – Darwin, The Bungle Bungles, Ayers Rock (Uluru), Coober element for Pedy, and had met up with Australian long-distance flyer Jon Johansson in Adelaide. Wojciech’s flight once again reinforces the capability of the future.” this aircraft. His aircraft was not heavily modified – internal tankage had been fitted, and an ingenious system for oil quality monitoring, as well as the capability to top off the oil But flight still fascinates across cultures and times. And in flight. This latter requirement is very familiar to us here the Comanche remains a high-performing and affordable and is widely used in ferrying aircraft across the oceans. aircraft which brings a broad mission capability into the More aircraft have been lost to oil exhaustion than fuel hands of those who seek it. exhaustion in this type of work. It is too early for trends to emerge, but as the current crop He has now left the aircraft in Murwillumbah, New South of pilots embracing very light aircraft around the world move Wales while he returns to Europe for Christmas, and to up wanting to travel and fly (as opposed to just fly) then a attend to professional commitments. While he is there, the re-discovery of the Comanche by a new generation is in the aircraft is getting a good mechanical going-over, and some cards. This will be in competition with new builds from the repairs, in preparation for the second part of the journey emerging market leaders. So there’s no free lunch as I’ve commencing in March – across the Pacific to South America, discussed in earlier columns. Quality, airworthy aircraft then back to Europe. On behalf of the ICS, I wish him luck will be valued. and success in the next part of his flight.
• Comanche Flyer February 2007 Back to ICS business, progress is now underway on the deliver about 1,500 course “spots” each year. Based on 25 new ICS Comanche Pilot Proficiency Program. Trends worldwide participants per course, that means we would need to deliver are for the importance of pilot proficiency programs to increase. 60 courses per year, or more than one a week. Taking into In some cases, they are tightly tied to either insurance discounts, account the adverse flying conditions over winter, the courses or even to getting insurance. In other cases, there is a growing would need to focus on the other seasons, and possibly avoid discussion around self-regulation for certain classes of GA, the summer holidays. All of which adds up to the need for a and formalised proficiency programs will be a cornerstone capability to sustainably deliver and administer two courses of this. And finally, increasingly aircraft owners are demanding per week. The Australian courses, which have been suc- and seeking out proficiency programs. Putting all of this together, cessfully running for a few years now, are priced at around the existence of a quality and formal proficiency program US$400 per attendee (including some meals and accom- for our type is a critical strategic element for the future. I modation), with some pricing options. They are well attended, am delighted that one of our well-qualified members, Zach and many pilots are choosing to come annually. Grant, has made himself available to drive this project. The first U.S. copy of the Australian Comanche Undercarriage Later this month (January), Zach will be spending some Simulator is well under construction with the mechanical time in Australia with Ken Holdsworth and myself. We will be work complete, and now being wired to the circuit diagram working intensively on further development of the program. which the Australian Tribe has donated to this project. Maybe The Australian Comanche Proficiency program is well by the time you read this, you will have had the opportunity established, and recognised by both the major Aviation to see this device. Our local experience is that it is an impor- Insurer and the Aviation Safety Foundation of Australia. tant training device, and one which makes a real difference This gives us a good foundation to build the International to people who get a chance to practice with it. program which will also incorporate the range of existing This holds true whether you are new to the Comanche, Comanche specific materials from around the world which or an “old hand”. The simulator has proven a much better have stood the test of time. aid than an aircraft on jacks, even when supplemented by This is not a short-term project and Zach expects it to a camera inside the aircraft. Once the U.S. prototype is take eighteen months to complete the project. complete, multiple copies are planned. Sitting alongside program development is program delivery. Until next month – enjoyable and safe flying, This is a parallel and considerable challenge. Consider the U.S. numbers. Suppose each pilot attends a course once every two Lawrence Paratz years (this would be a reasonable figure to achieve and maintain ICS President demonstrable proficiency), then we would need to be able to
Comanche Flyer Submission Guidelines All members are encouraged to submit articles for publication in the Comanche Flyer. If you have an article about a maintenance event, trip, piloting technique, or anything else pertinent to Comanche ownership, please share it with your fellow members. For those with access to the Internet, please submit the article via e-mail, preferably in Microsoft Word. You may also include the article in the body of your e-mail message. Include your full name, as you would like it published, and your ICS number. Please attach digital pictures, if applicable, in jpeg format. For best results, use the highest resolution setting your camera will allow. Photo files under 500 kb in size typically do not reproduce well. Send to: Kim Blonigen, Managing Editor at [email protected] Articles and photos may also be sent via U.S. Mail to: Kim Blonigen 2031 South Beech Wichita, KS 67207 Although submissions are reviewed for technical accuracy, the information in this magazine is meant for reference only. Any modifications, alterations, or major repairs to U.S. aircraft require FAA-approved data as a basis for beginning work, and as such should not be based solely on information contained in this magazine. The International Comanche Society does not endorse any piloting adverse to published FAA regulations. Submissions are subject to editing and revision unless specifically requested to be published as submitted. The right is reserved to publish or not, any submission. Deadline for all submissions is the 20th of the month, approximately 40 days prior to month of publication.
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • COMAN C HE Cover Story: Comanche Spirit ‘40P Finds a New Home By Bill Yordy, ICS #16191
urricane Katrina swept across we were not prepared for what we would the Mississippi Gulf Coast and see. The entire neighborhood was totally HDiamondhead (66Y) with an awe- destroyed and so was our house and some force and left an unimaginable everything in it, as well as our cars, trail of destruction in its path. My wife, boat, hangar, and our Cherokee which Karen, and I had been following Katrina’s had been a family member for the last progress since it moved into the Gulf of 15 years. The Cherokee was just ending Mexico and on Saturday had boarded a total restoration; paint, interior, engine, up the house and moved anything that autopilot, and avionics had all been could blow around into the hangar. attended to. Karen and I seem to name On Sunday when the reports indicated everything and she had named our that the hurricane was massive and was Cherokee “PJ”, short for Puddle Jumper. headed our way, we decided to take I walked around PJ accessing the damage, “The 180 is not the fastest of the fleet, but it’s the most efficient, most comfortable, and arguably the nicest flying airplane in its class.”
Karen’s parents, who lived with us at climbed up on the wing and opened the time, and evacuate to Mobile, Ala. the door, surveyed the interior, and We threw a change of clothes into an slowly realized that this airplane overnight bag and along with her par- would never fly again. ents headed to Mobile. Our plan was The next six months are a blur. We to spend Monday at the Outlet Mall in bought another house and completely Foley, Ala. and then return to 66Y on furnished it, acquired new wardrobes, Tuesday. Well as Hemingway wrote, “The purchased another vehicle, and attended best laid plans of mice and men ... ” to the myriad of other things that had to It was the better part of the next be worked out. I do remember eating week before the authorities would allow a lot of MREs and drinking a lot of us to return to 66Y, and when we did bottled water. Continued on Page 6
4 • Comanche Flyer FEBRUARY 2007 FEBRUARY 2007 Comanche Flyer • 5
3PIRIT Bill and his son Brian, who helped bring ‘40P to its new home.
seemed hesitant because Karen unclipped my cell phone from my belt, handed it to me and said, “Call him now.” You can guess what happened next. Sunday morning Charlie and I were northwest bound on our way to Oklahoma to continue the quest. About five min- utes after arriving, I decided that this was the airplane for Karen and I. We spent the next several hours looking for reasons not to make an offer, test flew it, and confirmed that this indeed was the one. After a lengthy, spirited discussion with the owner, a price Shortly after the first of the year in searched Trade-a-Plane, Controller, and was agreed upon, a handshake was 2006, our thoughts turned to another several other websites for something exchanged, and 5840P was almost ours. airplane. Initially I thought I wanted that would catch my eye. Karen, how- The following week I called Avemco and something simple, just a weekend flyer, ever, had another idea. She logged onto activated the insurance, Karen prepared but Karen had other ideas. She wanted Trade-A-Plane.com and printed all the a cashier’s check (one of the advantages a traveler since we had planned to visit ads for Comanche 180s. She then dropped of being married to a banker), and we our kids and grandson, her aunt and them into my lap as I was sitting in my began watching the weather for a suit- cousins, and several other destina- (new) recliner, gave me the look, and able window to bring ‘40P home to 66Y. tions – and no hurricane was going to said, “Start making phone calls.” The weather looked like it would be change that! About this time Melody located a good on the following Sunday, so plans I considered several different types likely candidate in Georgia, so one Spring were made to fly to Oklahoma and of airplanes including Mooneys, Cardinal morning found us in Charlie’s 400 wing- bring the airplane home. My youngest RGs, and briefly Bonanzas, but I kept ing our way north to look at a Comanche. son Brian is a corporate pilot (flies a returning to the Comanche, particularly It was a great day! Although I decided Citation CJ7 for a company in Louisiana) the Comanche 180. The 180 is not the not to make an offer on the airplane, and flew up with us to assist his dad fastest of the fleet, but it’s the most the owner was a delightful gentleman with the flight home. Upon arriving in efficient, most comfortable, and arguably whom I enjoyed meeting and spending Oklahoma the paperwork was com- the nicest flying airplane in its class. a few hours with. I continued to make pleted, the check was exchanged, and I discussed my desires with our 66Y phone calls (I do listen to my wife!) ‘40P was ours – what a feeling that was! neighbors, Charlie & Melody Horton and and after sorting through many airplanes I called Karen and told her and I could Don Johnsen, and the search began. found another candidate in Florida. hear the smile in her voice all the way The first thing I did was call my insur- Another Spring morning found Karen from 66Y. Charlie headed for home and ance company, a large pilot’s association, and I, with Charlie and Melody east- Brian and I followed behind with me to make the preliminary arrangements. bound on the continuing quest for Bill learning the airplane as we flew. What This was the first surprise. They stated and Karen’s new Comanche. After Charlie a great trip; a new Comanche and my that they would not write a new policy on and I carefully inspected this airplane, son with me on a cross-country, life is a Comanche 180 under any circum- the owner and I were unable to agree good! We stopped in Picayune, Miss. stances and when I pressed for a reason on a price, so we were homeward bound to buy fuel and allow my first landing they would only say “the underwrit- minus a new airplane but with a lot to to be on a long, wide runway and the ers don’t like them.” They would be think about. day became even better. Gene Phillips, happy however to insure the above During the many phone calls, I had a friend and icon of aviation in our area mentioned Mooneys, Cardinal RGs, or answered a short, two-line ad in the walked around ‘40P, looked inside, and a Bonanza. This was depressing! Upon Cherokee Pilots Association magazine said, “That’s a fine airplane; you did hanging up the phone, I thought for a for a Comanche 180. The owner did good!” The landing at 66Y was good as moment and made two more phone not have a lot of details but said he well and ‘40P was officially home. Don calls, one to Avemco and one to Travers. would take some pictures and mail them made room in his hangar until ours Travers promised to get back with me, to me. This conversation had faded to could be repaired and the search which they eventually did, but Avemco the rear of my (short) memory, but the committee celebrated with another was happy to give me a quote on the mail brought the pictures the following fine meal. Do you see a pattern here? phone. They punched my information Saturday. Karen and I looked at them Karen has named our new Comanche into their computer, quoted a price briefly; she again gave me the look, “40P.” It fits the airplane and she says which while not inexpensive was rea- and said, “This one you need to see.” if you say it fast it sounds like “for Papa”. sonable, and issued a binder number. That evening over dinner at our favorite My grandson agrees. He is 15 now and Now we were really underway! Melody Mexican restaurant, I showed the photos holds altitude and heading as well as, searched the ads in the Flyer and I to our “search committee.” I must have or better than, I do.
• Comanche Flyer February 2007 As with any older airplane ‘40P has flight instruments into a more con- Author’s Note: The in-flight pictures in had some issues, but nothing that we ventional six pack arrangement in the this article were taken over 66Y on a cold didn’t expect from the pre-buy. The existing panel and will probably do December day. Mike Bentson, a friend and avionics are now all working, the auto- that soon. We’ve discussed a Ron and former instrument student of mine, flew over pilot repaired and tracking the GPS, and John’s panel and that may be in the in his 172 and Don Johnson was the pho- tographer. It was cold in that 172 with the several other minor issues are resolved. future, although we both like the right side window open and both Mike and The starter failed and took the ring original look of the airplane. Don looked like ice cubes. When I mentioned gear with it, but that is repaired as In the meantime though, we’re just over the radio that ‘40P’s heater worked well. The airplane has been a joy. My enjoying owning and flying our new really well, I received no response! biggest problem is I seem to be kid- Comanche. We had nicknamed our napped every time I go to the hangar Cherokee a “magic throw rug” because to work on it; I find myself flying off it wasn’t big enough or fast enough to somewhere. Karen enjoys ‘40P as much be a magic carpet, but ‘40P is truly as I do. It’s roomier, smoother, faster, “Bill and Karen’s magic carpet.” and quieter than PJ and is just as eco- nomical, other than the insurance, to operate. I’m an IA so that helps with the expense. We’re happy with our airplane, but do have a few modifications in mind. ‘40P has a pristine original paint and interior and we want to keep it that way as much as possible. We do have wheel well gap fairings and a Speed Slipper being painted now and they will be installed soon. Oxygen will be purchased to help on the longer trips, particularly at night. I’m considering a GNS 430 which will fit perfectly in the left side radio stack, give ‘40P IFR GPS capability, and free up a panel slot. I would like to rearrange the
b ‘40P at home at 66Y
_ Bill and Karen with their “magic carpet.”
FEBRUARY 2007 Comanche Flyer • 7 Headquarter Items For Sale Lapel Pin (Single, Logo, Twin) Item Price Qty Total (including shipping) Lapel Pin – ICS10 $7.00 Please circle selection: Single, Twin, Logo Ball Cap – ICS01 $15.00 Please circle selection: Denim, Khaki, White New Polo Shirts – ICS09 $35.00 Ball Cap (Denim, Khaki, White) Please circle selection: S, M, L, XL, XXL Polo Shirt Twin Logo – ICS02 $35.00 Please circle selection: S, M, L, XL, XXL Polo Shirt Single Logo – ICS03 $35.00 Please circle selection: S, M, L, XL, XXL Denim Shirt Long Sleeve – ICS07 $40.00 Please circle selection: S, M, L, XL, XXL Denim Shirt Short Sleeve – ICS08 $40.00 Please circle selection: S, M, L, XL, XXL New Polo Shirts (with pocket) Paint Scheme CD – ICS04 $30.00 Please circle selection: Single, Twin Decals – ICS05 2 for $5.00 Cloth Patch – ICS06 $5.00 SUB TOTAL Michigan residents please add 6% sales tax Handling $5.50 $5.50 Overseas members please add $6.00 postage $6.00 Polo Shirts - Single or Twin TOTAL (with pocket)
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Payment: MC Visa Denim Shirts (with pocket) Card # Exp. Date: To order mail, fax or call: Decal Patch International Comanche Society P.O. Box 1810 Traverse City, MI 49685-1810 US: (888) 300-0082 Other: (231) 946-3712 Fax: (231) 946-6180 Paint Scheme CDs (Single or Twin) Online Intelligence Empty Weight and Center of Gravity
The following is from a series of rear. 5888P’s basic empty weight is 1,579 Don, online postings from the Comanche’s pounds; her arm is at 89.1 ... your I would really appreciate [it] if you Owner’s Forum. These postings are arm at 87.5 compares as expected. could send me your 250 empty weight provided for informational purposes Bruce Godfrey, and arm (cg). I’m just trying to compare only. The views expressed in these ICS #15256, N5888P to mine. Bruce, if you have access to ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– your friend’s 250 I would love to see postings represent the opinions of Thanks for your reply Godfrey. I those numbers also. individual Comanche owners and actually owned a 180 for 14 years until Thanks, have not been vetted by the ICS tech- I bought this 250 last year. I loved that Z nical committee. airplane (the 180). Put over 900 hours ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– As a responsible pilot and aircraft on it. When looking at the Type Z, owner, you should always seek the Certificate Data sheet, it shows the My 1961 250 empty weight is 1,840 advice from an experienced, trusted rearward cg limit on the 180 to be 94 pounds, arm 84.2 (digital weight). The source, such as your A&P or CFF- while it is 93 on the 250. It just sur- aircraft is heavier than it should be; it approved CFI, before applying any of prised me that it was off by seven has three complete paint jobs (with the techniques or recommendations inches from the factory numbers. primer) and was not stripped between presented in these postings. Z them; I expect 100 pounds of weight ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– reduction when we strip and paint, but The postings are printed as they Z I cannot calculate what that arm might appeared in the Forum. Due to space I fly my friend’s 250 from time to time be. The aircraft has a lot of avionics, considerations, we are publishing only because he doesn’t fly it enough. I find autopilot with pitch and roll servos, selected posts. the 250 flies noticeably “nose heavy” three-bladed prop, copper cables, spats, ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– relative to the 180; otherwise they’re lightweight starter, vertically adjustable I just had a new electronic weight both great performers with their seats, heavy soundproofing insulation, and balance done on my 1961 250. I was differences. I appreciate the improved one-fourth-inch windows, Webco corner surprised to see the weight at about climb rate and speed performance of brace on door, Cherokee door latch, 1,780 pounds (manual showed 1,660). the 250 and find it fun to compare all of which add to the weight and most What surprised me even more though them. It’s hard to choose which one is of which shift the cg forward. was that after dividing the moment by best overall, and I don’t have to No two aircraft are the same. Your the weight, I got an empty weight cg choose. My 180 has been owned by weight doesn’t seem out of line, but your of 87.5. The original manual shows it my family for 22 years and been used arm is a bit further aft than I’d expect. at about 81. This is far more rearward to train four pilots, I’m number four. That might be because you have less than I thought it would be. Two are flying for airlines today. weight forward than I have. You might Any comments? What is your Bruce Godfrey, look at your equipment list, what’s for- empty CG? ICS #15256, N5888P ward and what’s on your avionics rack Thanks. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– behind the aft bulkhead, servos that Zach Bruce, might be back there, slaved compass ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– I agree that the 180 is probably the sensor, or anything else from there to the Z- most well-balanced of the fleet. I sold tail that would shift the cg aft. Others I have a 1959 180. I’ve been led to it and bought the 250 for the increased have said that your numbers were in-line. understand from the folks here that the climb performance since my family is Having a nice mid-point cg is nice; it 180 and 250 airframes of this vintage getting “heavier” (kids growing). means you can fill your tanks, put heavy- are identical. With the smaller engine, I’d Z weights in the front seats without expect the 180’s basic empty weight to ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– pushing the fore cg limit. be less and the arm to be further to the Continued on Page 6
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • You might check that: the oil was Thanks for your reply Don. I did what definition of “empty weight” was drained, the fuel tanks were drained have everything out of the airplane, being used. Yes, it is a hybrid as reported (except for two gallons in each main, the tanks were empty and the engine because it did include the unusable fuel. which is unusable), all stuff was removed full of oil (I deducted that later). The I’ll check to be sure the weight and from the cabin and baggage compart- scales had been calibrated the day balance document states the condi- ment, the aircraft was level, laterally before and they were electronic. I do tions of measured weight and balance. and longitudinally, and the scales not have much equipment on the back Thanks for the info. were recently calibrated. If the job rack, but do a have a new factory reman Don was done properly, the weight and with lightweight starter, alternator and ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– arm is the weight and arm. new McCauley three blade up front. My 1960 60-gallon 250, serial number Best, Also have the dual exhaust from Dave 1813 is 1,712.1 pounds at 83.4 inches. Don (not sure how its weight compares to No tip tanks … calculation has not been ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– the original). I also put one-inch sound- weighed in a few years now ... and from Z- proofing in the back of the plane especially what I have seen of how weighing them My 1960 -250 weighs 1,700 pounds, under the baggage and on the back and goes after 20 odd years I may not with arm of 81.82. side walls of the baggage compartment. (two-blade (Hartzell) prop). All old wiring, etc. has been care- My only concern is that with 200 pounds Howard fully removed. baggage and heavier people in the back, ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dale it can be aft cg. I did however notice that No, not original. Weighed with digital ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– the 180’s have an aft cg envelope limit electronic scales. All radio gear changed [I] had this problem on our family Twin. of 94 not 93 which makes me wonder to newer lighter gear. Three-blade McCauley [I] had it weighed again and it became how critical a cg of 93 is. prop, governor, spinner and backing plate. consistent with our expectations. Z A few pounds lighter than the original Pat Keefer, ICS #08899 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Hartzell items. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– [Regarding] “I assume oil in the All paint removed prior to last Don and all, empty weight,” I reported the measured repaint … no multiple coats. I noticed your weighing technique was empty weight without oil and with only Dale described above. It included unusable unusable fuel that would not drain (four ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– fuel and I assume oil in the empty gallons, according to the manual). Opera- Polyurethane paint is significantly weight, as is the current practice today. tionally, I account for the four gallons heavier than original enamel for what However, when the aircraft came out that are included in the empty weight; it’s worth. This could be a source of of the factory it was weighed “DRY,” in other words, full main tanks are the heavier weights encountered. meaning that there were additives in calculated at 56 gallons, since four of -Zach the weight report for ALL of the fuel those gallons are in the empty weight. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– and ALL of the oil not just usable. Also, I have a fuel measuring stick for The “old” style paint job on a Delta Those two things can add up to about the mains that was calibrated when we Airlines 727 was reported to weigh 48 pounds depending on the numbers calibrated the new fuel senders. I know about 500 pounds. FWIW :) used for the weight of fuel. It will also how many quarts of oil are contained Rich, cause the empty cg to shift aft if it is in the engine on preflight, and that gets Bear River Flyers, ICS Member weighed dry, so you will have a more added to weight and balance calculation. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– forward empty cg because you weighed How is this wrong? Zach, that is true. However, many with the oil and unusable fuel installed. Don “bargain” paint jobs do not involve Make sure you note this in your weight ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– stripping the old paint and the aircraft report as this is contrary to the approved Z, winds up carrying two or three times flight manual for your plane, and if I’d not exceed an aft cg limit because the weight of a proper paint job. you follow the letter of the manual you as the cg moves aft, the longitudinal Dale will add in extra oil and extra fuel, and stability decreases (even though the ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– thus have an inaccurate W&B calculation. aircraft will go faster), but I don’t know Dale, (Okay, we all know how inaccurate why the 180 has one inch more than the Agreed. Been there done that. Once these calculations are, BUT paperwork 250 on the aft limit. Perhaps they tested stripped a plane that had seven layers is the only thing the FAA can prove or demonstrated it further aft during of paint. I am only pointing out that was wrong so at least it better look certification. (I have three-fourths-inch there are very real reasons for weight right if you ever get nicked). soundproofing on the back cabin increases in these old birds, even Zach bulkhead panels as well). extremely clean ones. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Don -Zach Dale, ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Is your weight and cg original or Zach, Our thanks to Dale Vandever for com- did you have it weighed? Actually, it was weighed to GAMA piling this text. You can view these Z consensus, as you describe it, with full messages in the context of the entire ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– oil and unusable fuel. I subtracted the discussion by going to: http://forums. weight and moment of the oil when delphiforums.com/comancheflyer. reporting it here, because I was unsure
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February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 11 Call for Nominees ominations for office in the ICS 2007 Annual Nominations will close on April 2 and the Annual Voting Voting of Members are now open. The Nominations by mail will begin with the delivery of the ballots in the NCommittee is listed below and may be contacted July Flyer. Candidates are not required to be present at the with suggestions for candidates including one’s own desire General Meeting, where the winners will be announced. to run for office. The offices open are President, Vice Please contact the Chair, any member of the nominating President, Secretary and Treasurer. The terms of office are committee, or myself for further information. for one year beginning with the close of the Annual General Dorothy Meadows, Meeting held in Tacoma, Wash. on August 18, 2007. ICS Secretary
ICS 2007 ICS Bylaws – Article VIII Nominating Nominations and Voting comMittee Chair: Section 1. On all questions brought before the Members of the Society, each Karl Hipp, ICS #10241, MS Tribe member in good standing as of the closing date of the membership’s rolls for that 131 Beaver Lane vote shall be entitled to one vote. A member in good standing is a member whose Redstone, CO 81623-8763 dues are currently paid. The membership rolls shall close on the 21st day of the Ph: (970) 963-3755 month immediately preceding the beginning of the voting period. Cell: (970) 948-5776 Section 2. Within 90 days following each Annual General Meeting, the Board Email: [email protected] shall select a Nominating Committee (NomCom) of three or more persons to Members & Tribes: nominate candidates for officers to be voted upon at the next Annual Voting Dorian Swartz, ICS #7531, SW of Members. Not more than one member of the NomCom shall be a member of P.O. Box 689 the Board, and the President may not appoint to nor serve on the NomCom. No Somerset, CA 95684-0689 Board member may nominate more than one person to the NomCom, and no Ph: (530) 620-4422 Tribe shall be represented on the committee by more than one Tribe member. Cell: (818) 398-7055 The NomCom is to nominate one or more members in good standing for each Email: [email protected] office, and no member of the NomCom may be nominated by the committee for any of the offices, to be filled at the succeeding election. John vanBladeren, ICS #1282, NW Section 3. The names and contact information for the Chairperson and 2007 SE Ash St. members of the NomCom, and a call for nominations, shall be published in the Portland, OR 97214 Ph: (503) 329-8512 Comanche Flyer in each issue not past deadline from the appointment of the Email: [email protected] committee until nominations are closed. Section 4. In addition to candidates proposed by the NomCom, any member Bill Schnauffer IV, ICS #12489, NC in good standing of the Society shall be a candidate if he or she submits to the 1720 Old Orchard Rd Chairperson of the NomCom a letter agreeing to serve if elected and letters from Rockford, IL 61107 three other members in good standing, not more than one of whom is from Ph: (815) 397-7599 the same tribe as the potential candidate, nominating the potential candidate Cell: (815) 289-8119 and attesting to the potential candidate’s fitness for the position sought. The Email:[email protected] Chairperson shall immediately acknowledge each communication received from a member wishing to be a candidate or nominating and attesting to another Ken Holdsworth, ICS #9394, AU PO Box 354 member’s fitness to serve. Salisbury, QLD 4107 Australia Section 5. Nominations for the election of officers and the closing time for Ph: 61-427722821 placing on the ballot for all questions to be brought before the membership in a Email: [email protected] Voting of Members shall end no sooner than 5:00 p.m. at the Society office 90 days prior to the beginning of the voting period. Tina Thumann, ICS #15757, SC 6618 Avenel Drive Pasadena, TX 77505 Ph: (281) 487-5782 Cell: (832) 788-9673 Email: [email protected]
Don Nelson 11/20/06
12 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 2006-2007 ICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS & TRIBE REPRESENTATIVES President: South Central: E. Canada: Lawrence Paratz, ICS #12475, AU Tribe Tribe Rep Dale Vandever, ICS #2826 Tribe Chief Bruce MacRitche, ICS #10998 11 Wrixon St., Kew 12603 Mile Drive PO Box 244 Melbourne, VIC 3101 Houston, TX 77065-1303 Welland ONT K0A 1L0 Canada Australia Ph/Fax: (281) 469-2435 Ph: (905) 295-4968, (905) 735-7773 Ph: +61-3-9817-1222 Fax: +61-3-9817-2088 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Tribe Chief Bruce Thumann, ICS #14028 Europe: Vice President: 6618 Avenel Drive ICS Rep Monica Rehkopf, ICS #14462 Dave Fitzgerald, ICS #10297, NC Tribe Pasadena, TX 77505 85570 Siggenhofen, Germany 5393 Hillsboro Ave. SE Home: (281) 487-5782 Work: (713) 649-8588 Hm: 49-8121-229 333 Fax: 49-8121 229 332 Canton, OH 44707-1167 Cell: (713) 875-3056 Fax: (713) 649-8151 Email: [email protected] Ph: (330) 484-4609 Cell: (330) 936-7979 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Tribe Chief David Sheppard, ICS #14629 South West: Lipstone Cottage, Cansey Lane Wix Secretary: Tribe Chief Lorne Harmon, ICS #12436 Wssex Co11 2rj United Kingdom Dorothy Meadows, ICS #6723, NC Tribe 1491 Northridge Drive Ph: 012-5587-0061 Wrk/Fax: 012-0685-2900 1500 Odette Prescott, AZ 86301 Email: [email protected] Hartland, MI 48353 Ph: (928) 717-2630 Ph: (810) 632-9588 Email: [email protected] S. Africa: Email: [email protected] Tribe Chief Fred Morrison, ICS #15438 North West: PO Box 3912, Midrand Gauteng Treasurer: Tribe Rep/Sec Shirley Nelson, ICS #14897 1685 South Africa Don Nelson, ICS #118, NW Tribe 925 Ludwick Ave Ph: 27-11-314-8181 Fax: 27-11-314-8182 925 Ludwick Ave. Blaine, WA 98230 email: [email protected] Blaine, WA 98230-5109 Ph: (360) 671-7388 Cell: (360) 305-0287 Ph/Fax: (360) 332-2743 Cell: (360) 305-0286 Email: [email protected] Australia: Email: [email protected] Tribe Chief John Macknight, ICS #596 Tribe Chief Jay Hulbert, ICS #15334 PO Box 356 Past President: 54967 East Kirkwood Dr. Deniliquin NSW 2710; Australia Karl Hipp, ICS #10241, MS Tribe Sandy, OR 97055 Ph: 61-3-5881 6000 131 Beaver Lane Ph: (503) 702-6403 Cell: 61-427 694008 Redstone, CO 81623-8763 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Ph: (970) 963-3755 Cell: (970) 948-5776 Email: [email protected] W. Canada: Tribe Chief Don Ostergard, ICS #3263 CFF President: (non-voting) Box 2550 Harley McGatha, ICS #11687, SE Tribe Drumheller AB T0J 0Y0 Canada 50 Country Rd. 537 Wrk: (403) 823-9326 Fax: (403) 823-9183 Centre, AL 35960 Hm: (403) 823-8813 Cell: (403) 823-0405 Ph: (256) 927-5044 Cell: (256) 484-1738 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
TRIBE REPRESENTATIVES AND CHIEFS ICS Tool loan program South East: Tribe Chief Charles Littwin, ICS# 14089 Matt Kurke 108 Amelia Lane 10340 Regent Circle Mooresville, NC 28117-8457 Naples, FL 34109 Ph: (704) 799-2989 Wrk: (704) 528-1130 Ph: (239) 593-6944 Fax: (704) 799-2981 Cell: (704) 658-7910 Email: [email protected] North East Tribe Tribe Chief, Bill Weaver 840 Hughey Road ICS Technical Directors Brookville, PA 15825 Ph: (814) 849-2516 Fax: (814) 849-5522 Bill Creech Dave Gitelman Email: [email protected] Tel: (915) 581-3401 Tel: (585) 381-4785 (home) or [email protected] Fax: (915) 581-4176 Cell: (585) 317-8446 Asst Tribe Chief, Richard R (Dick) Kuszyk E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] 1129 Delaware Avenue Churchton, MD 20733 Ph: (410) 867-9156 Cel: (410) 212-1581 Email: [email protected] 2006-07 ICS Standing Committees & Chairpersons: North Central: Tribe Chief Zachary Grant, ICS #15515 Historical: None Finance & Budget – Chair: Elections – Chair: 6736 Chapel Hill Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46214 Communications – Chair: Treasurer Don Nelson, NW Harley McGatha, SE Ph: (317) 243-3079 Cell: (317) 201-4293 Mark Pfeifer, MS Bylaws, Standing & Marketing – Chair: Email: [email protected] Technical – Overall Chair: Special Rules – Chair: Bill Schnauffer IV, NC Mid States: John vanBladeren, NW Don Nelson, NW Tribe Chief Larry Degner, ICS #14028 14701 Pioneer Trail Nominating – Chair: Don Nelson Maintenance – Chair: 11/20/06 Eden Prairie, MN 55347 Karl Hipp, MS Karl Hipp, MS Ph: (952) 941-2246 Email: [email protected] operations – Chair: Flagship: Zach Grant, NC Dale Vandever, SC
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 13 Tired of your stem?... Whatta drag! OAT Outside Air Temperature gauge
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14 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 CFF-Trained CFIs Certified flight instructors who have completed the CFF Larry Larkin Seminar
The International Comanche Society, Inc. (ICS) publishes this list in the spirit of open discussion and the opinions, statements and claims made by the instructors are their own and not of the Society (ICS). The listed CFIs have undergone an extensive training program specialized in the Comanches. ICS assumes no responsibility for any actions between its members and the listed CFIs.
Pete Anderson – TX Single, (817) 279-1627 [email protected] Samuel Appavoo – Canada Twin, (519) 524-7301 COMANCHE FLYER FOUNDATION, INC. [email protected] Maurice Taylor Video Programs James Bates – AZ Take advantage of Maurice’s expert knowledge, captured on these Single, (480) 837-3836 professionally produced videos. Great tools for mechanics, too. [email protected] Program 1: Preflight Walk-around Kevin C. Baun – OH Program 2: Tech Tips: A Closer Look Twin, (740) 881-9878 Program 3: Comanche Landing Gear [email protected] Program 4: Single Comanche Flight Tips Sheldon Bresin – CA Program 5: Twin Comanche Flight Tips Single & Twin, (909) 629-2626 (Programs 1-3 apply to both the single and twin models.) [email protected] Now Available on DVD (all five programs on one DVD.) Orlando Brown – OK DVD each $101.00 plus shipping (North America $4.00, elsewhere $7.00) Single, (405) 376-4056 [email protected] Special Sale on Videotapes (while supplies last). One program per tape. Specify programs desired and VHS or PAL tape format. Dennis Carew – WI Tapes each $25.00 (regular price $39.95) plus shipping, Twin & Single (262) 250-3136 / (920) 749-9558 or all five for $100.00 plus shipping (North America: $2.00 plus $2.00 per tape; [email protected] elsewhere: $6.00 plus $3.00 per tape.) Charles Classen – IL Books Single, (815) 269-2552 [email protected] Into the Wind: The Story of Max Conrad by Sally Buegeleisen Enjoy this account of the life and feats of legendary pilot Max Conrad, including Linda Dowdy – MN Twin, (763) 753-1571 his record setting flights in our own Comanche N110LF. pb, 264pp. [email protected] Price: $21.50 plus shipping (North America: $5.00: elsewhere: $12.00.) William Harris – VA PA-30 & Multi-Engine Flying by Alice S. Fuchs. pb, 68pp. Single & Twin, (540) 731-4772 Price $9.00 plus shipping (North America: $2.00; elsewhere: $4.50.) [email protected] Ira Menin – IA Please fill out to order Single, (712) 239-5142 Please circle items above and indicate any multiple quantities. Be certain to [email protected] specify DVD or tapes, and format (VHS or PAL) and programs desired for tape orders. Eric Schlanser – MI Item(s) cost: ______Add all shipping: ______Order Total: ______Single, (616) 382-3709 [email protected] Mail to: CFF c/o Henry A. Spellman, 111 Park Place, Lincoln, IL 62656-1529 Telephone & Fax: (217) 732-8425 / E-Mail: [email protected] Dave Stewart – IN Single, (219) 462-0182 Enclose check, money order, or credit card information. U.S. funds only. [email protected] Credit card information: Discover MasterCard Visa
Roger Wentowski – AL Card Number: ______Expiration Date:______Single, (205) 290-8401 [email protected] Signature:______V Code (Visa only):______
Larry J. Whitbeck - IL Ship to name:______Single, (217) 732-9704 [email protected] Street Address:______Steve Zaboji – VA Single & Twin, (703) 471-1764 City:______State:[email protected] Zip Code: ______Country:______
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February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 15 Feature Story Getting The Most Out Of Your Autopilot By Dale Smith
hether you are flying hard Is your autopilot rate-based “What else do you have in your air- IFR or just out in search of or attitude-based? plane to back up that gyro?” he asked. W the best $100 hamburger, As Plantz explained it, an attitude- “Do you have a standby vacuum pump? there’s one piece of equipment that’s based system it is going to get its input The point is, if your primary vacuum right in your panel that can cut the from your vacuum-driven attitude gyro, or gyro fails is there a backup data workload on any flight you make – while a rate-based autopilot gets its source for your autopilot? If not, it’s your autopilot. That is if you use it. primary information from a specially not going to work.” Truth be told, the majority of pilots designed electric turn-coordinator that “An advantage of a rate-based auto- rarely take the time to get to know the comes with the autopilot system. pilot is it doesn’t care about the vacuum capabilities of their airplane’s autopilot. Why is that important? Well, on the system,” Plantz said. “If you have an Operationally speaking, they’re a lot average flight it’s not. But it can be criti- electrical failure, you’ll at least have like airborne weather radars – many cal when things start to go wrong and enough power in the battery to let the airplanes have them, but very few pilots you need to know whether or not you autopilot fly while you get things ever take the time to learn how to use can get help from your autopilot. sorted out. Then you can turn it off it. Sure you could read the Owner’s “What happens if you’re in IMC and and hand fly.” Manual, but what self-respecting pilot your vacuum system fails and you have Plantz stressed that knowing these will do that? an attitude-based autopilot?” Plantz said. operational differences are critical to helping you get the most capabilities and safety out of whatever autopilot you have. “The better you know your autopilot and The better you know your autopilot and how it interacts with the other systems on your airplane, the better prepared how it interacts with the other systems you are to handle an emergency. on your airplane, the better prepared Preflight your autopilot. Another thing you’ll find in your POH is the large section it dedicates to pre- you are to handle an emergency.” flighting your autopilot. Did you even know there are preflight procedures? But you have a lot of money invest- “If you don’t do anything, your autopilot Sure you did. ed in your airplane and the Pilot’s is going to follow that gyro down to its “It’s a step that most pilots have Operating Handbook (POH) that came [the autopilot’s] design limits before forgotten about, but it’s very important. with your particular autopilot is the disengaging. In other words, if that Especially if you’re launching off into best place to start to get the most out autopilot is designed to disengage at a IMC. In the clouds is not the place to of that investment. 40-degree bank angle, it will follow discover that your autopilot isn’t “Pilots need to spend time reading that gyro until it reaches that limit. working – especially if it’s part of your their autopilot’s POH. It won’t take long That’s too late.” get-home plan,” Plantz said. “What you and it will greatly increase their under- “Vacuum failure is a subtle thing,” he really want to do is go through all the standing and confidence in using their continued. “If the vacuum failed and that preflight procedures in your POH. autopilot on every flight,” Greg Plantz, gyro slowly spools down you can find Companies go through a lot to get Director of Sales, S-TEC Corporation yourself in an unusual attitude before these [POHs] approved and this is one said. One of the first things it will tell you realize it. So if you have an attitude- of the things it stresses. Some pilots you is whether yours is a rate-based based autopilot, you know that if you just get too lazy.” or an attitude-based autopilot. have a vacuum failure, you can’t use it. Plantz said that his preflight autopilot A lot of pilots don’t understand that.” check not only confirms that the systems
16 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 are working but he also uses it as an knowing how you’re going to work with autopilot, why wouldn’t you fly it down opportunity to ‘exercise’ the various your autopilot. Take a tip from the to minimums to help you out?” servos. “The muscle of the system is the professionals and have a game plan Another helpful tip on approach is to servo and it needs to be used,” he said. for autopilot usage. use the throttle to help the autopilot “Carbon and corrosion can build up on “It’s a comfort thing with every pilot,” stay on the glide slope. “Pilots can the brushes so the motor won’t work as Plantz said. “Everyone wants to use their anticipate the autopilot’s pitch change well – they won’t respond as quickly to autopilot at a different phase of flight and and use power to help it out,” he said. small directions from the autopilot’s that’s fine. The key is to have the deci- “I’m not making huge power changes, controller. So the controller ends up sion made before you leave the ramp.” just small increments to smooth the sending more voltage and then the ser- “Personally, I engage my autopilot at approach out.” Another tip Plantz vomotor overreacts to the signal. That’s 500 feet AGL. Other guys will hand fly to shared is to use the heading bug to one of the things we look at when some- 1,000 feet, then turn it on. It’s a matter slowly start turning the aircraft in one complains about pitch-oscillation or your procedure and comfort,” he towards the final approach heading to or wing-rock.” continued. “Have your departure profile smooth the intercept angle out during While how to do an approved auto- decided upon early. Say it’s 200 overcast a localizer approach. pilot exercise plan is part of the auto- and a half-mile. I’m going to use my flight “If you’re flying a 30-degree intercept pilot’s preflight procedures in the POH, director for the first 500 feet and then your needle will be fully deflected. When Plantz said that he kicks his up a notch. engage my autopilot. I’ve also decided you see that needle come off the peg, “What I do is throw my heading bug which modes I’m going to use while on there’s nothing wrong with using the 30-degrees to the left. My servo starts the ground – am I using my Heading heading bug to slowly start turning turning the yoke to the left. But before it or NAV modes? It’s all pre-decided on the aircraft inbound,” he said. “This will hits the stop, I grab the yoke and hold it the ground so I can concentrate on help the autopilot fly a tighter local- until the clutch engages,” he said. “I hold safely flying the airplane.” izer approach.” it for five or 10 seconds. It makes the Plantz also said that he has his motor work longer and I also verify approach procedures decided before he Practice makes perfect. that the clutch is working properly.” even begins his decent. “Have a game Like honing any skill, it takes practice “I do that again for a right turn. Then plan for when you are going to discon- to get comfortable with your autopilot. I do it the same way for the pitch servo,” nect during the approach,” he added. That’s why it’s a good idea to fly as Plantz said. “I use the maximum com- “On a non-precision approach are you much as you can with it on. Pick a VFR mands to get the maximum voltage going to use the autopilot to maintain the day and fly simulated IFR flight with a requirements to the servo from the flight inbound course? If your autopilot doesn’t safety pilot. How does your autopilot computer so I have the best chance of have vertical speed capability, are you track the localizer? What is your per- having the highest RPMs on the servos.” going to keep it engaged to fly the sonal disconnect altitude? Get a feel for Since the S-TEC model Fifty Five X inbound course while you manually helping it fly the approach with throttle autopilot Plantz has in his Cherokee Six control the vertical decent? What are inputs. The extra practice is good for 300 has an auto-trim servo, he also turns you going to do when you reach MDA?” you and great for your autopilot. the autopilot off and runs the electric “I keep the autopilot on from the Even if you are a VFR-only pilot. trim all the way to its stops in both MDA to the missed approach,” Plantz There may come a day when you directions. “By doing this I’ve run all said. “Or until I visually acquire the encounter IMC weather and your ability three servos,” he explained. “Even if you airport – then the autopilot comes off. to use your autopilot to keep your wings only have a wing-leveler and one servo, Pilots who don’t trust their autopilots level and execute a 180 may be a real the procedure is still the same.” to track the inbound course, turn it off difference maker. and hand fly. But let’s say the autopilot If you’re not comfortable doing it Autopilot operational tips. has been holding a 30-degree crab into yourself, find an experienced instructor Now that you know that your auto- a crosswind. You turn off the autopilot who knows autopilots and can give you pilot is functioning as designed, it’s time and turn the aircraft into the runway a few hours of dual. When it gets down to launch off into that 500-foot ceiling, heading and guess what? By the time to “crunch time” it may be the best right? Not so fast. Knowing that your you get down to the decision height, investment you’ve ever made. autopilot works is not the same as you’re off course. If you have a capable
Basic Single Axoll System Basic Two-Axis tch System Advanced Three-Yaw System
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 17 Feature Story The European Tribe – After 25 years, it’s still going strong by David Sheppard, ICS #14629 European Tribe Chief
ur first fly-in of 2006 was to of interest to which we will be introduced. Sheppard, European Tribe Chief at Le Touquet, on the West coast David will provide you with all the [email protected] Oof France, to commemorate the information at [email protected]. for that information. 25th anniversary of the ordination of We then travel to Switzerland in the European Tribe of the International September with Lucerne as the desti- Comanche Society. Although 15 aircraft nation. This mountainous region will attended the original meeting, only give us the opportunity to hone various Leslie Richardson and Gordon Keymer flying and navigating skills, and there “The potential are still members of the Society, and will be the possibility of some glacier it was very fitting that they were able flying. We will be visiting the Pilatus to attend. factory, and have the chance of a flight for fly-ins to Much has happened in Europe during in a Junkers JU52. Fred Iselli is the those 25 years, many would say that contact for this trip and can be con- interesting, not all is for the better. However, the tacted at [email protected] for European Union now comprises 25 more information. member states, with two more countries In between these major outings there educational accessing during 2007 (Bulgaria and are plans for a few smaller events. Such Romania), and two other countries as a one-day course on the use of GPS, currently in accession negotiations – specifically the Garmin GNS 430/530, and entertaining Turkey and Croatia. At this time Europe and a visit to a facility where it will be is the second-smallest continent in possible to experience a ditching situ- terms of area, but the third largest in ation, including underwater evacuation venues is enviable.” terms of population. and life raft deployment. This environment gives us a colossal Safety note: Out of interest, of those variation in culture, weather, topography pilots who carry life rafts how many are and procedures all within our bound- prepared and equipped to deal with We have a healthy mailing list of aries. Subsequently the potential for unplanned and sudden inflation of the members to whom newsletters are fly-ins to interesting, educational and life raft while it is still in the aircraft? circulated on an irregular basis, and entertaining venues is enviable. This would potentially create a situation this medium is valuable for distributing In May 2007, our first outing of the difficult to deal with. I carry a sharp important information from time to time, year will be to the west coast of Scotland, knife clipped to my sun visor. particularly about fly-ins. However, I am in the United Kingdom, where Barrie Already we have members working on very aware that we have many members Taylor has been working on an interest- the programme for 2008, and at this of the European Tribe who are not ing visit to Oban, amongst the ruggedly time outlines for visits to Odessa in the included on this list, so the only way beautiful scenery for which this area Ukraine, Annecy in the French Alps, they will find out about such things as of Scotland is famous. Please contact and Croatia are on the table. fly-ins will be either though the website, Barrie direct at [email protected] We have a comprehensive website or the Flyer magazine. I would like to take and he will send you full details. at www.comancheflyer-eur.com, and this opportunity to urge members of the July will see us in Helsinki, Finland there is now a link from the main ICS European Tribe who are not already at the invitation of David Pring. His wife website. We invite all members from subscribed to the mailing list, to do is Scandinavian, so we can expect the other tribes to visit our site where so. Please send me an e-mail (david@ benefit of “insider information” which is there is a lot of information about our sheppardracing.freeserve.co.uk) and I always a good thing in a different country. Tribe and members. In order to gain will ensure that you receive up-to-date This time of year the weather should be access you need a user name and information on all current situations, in perfect, and the area has an abundance password. Feel free to e-mail David addition to plans for the future.
18 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 Incorporated P.O. Box 18255 • Memphis, TN 38181-0255 901-365-6611 • Fax: 901-365-9524 • Toll Free: 1-800-824-9912
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comanche windshields & windows lp999 one piece clear windshield...... $316.00 lp999 one piece tinted...... $379.50 complete set 6 place .250 tinted...... $1260.50 complete set 6 place .250 clear...... $1061.50 complete set 4 place .250 tinted...... $988.50 complete set 4 place .250 clear...... $834.50 (set includes one piece winshield & frameless vent on pilot window) lp064 lh landing light lens...... $36.00 lp065 rh landing light lens...... $36.00 Please call for individual window pricing. Freight is FOB factory.
prices subject to change without notice
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 19 Feature Story The Man and the Machine by Rick L. Hamilton, ICS #16204
n December 17, 2006 at model Piper, one that would be the begin- airplane down when you entered the approximately 7:03 p.m. Central ning of a “step up” process to something pattern. Too fast and the landing was OStandard Time, N9073P, a 1966 like a Meridian or a Mirage. Maybe even going to be something for everyone on Piper Comanche 260B, was lost in a fatal something like a Seneca, or when I was the ground to watch, too slow and … crash outside of a small town in north- really dreaming big, a Cheyenne. in the words of the ever-famous aviation east Ohio. Paul Martin, his wife Lillian, As fate would have it, one day while writer Richard Collins, “pucker time.” and their children Shawn and Kitanna, waiting for my instructor, I stood I shot several approaches in 73P as I were killed in this tragic accident. It’s browsing the bulletin board in the FBO got checked out and I was amazed how amazing how much can be lost as a and saw an ad for a very nice looking nice it set up for and stabilized on an result of one single accident, and in an airplane. It had everything I was looking ILS. As I took it out for our first few effort to memorialize this event, I find for and I had not really taken note that cross-country trips, I found more of the myself overwhelmingly compelled to it was a Comanche. Then it hit me – a same. My only gripes were involving our tell this story. I’m not quite sure what Comanche? It couldn’t be. It looked fast GPS navigator (it just was not a 430/530) I hope to accomplish. However, I do just sitting there on the ground. It was in and that darn door. (The door was a know this – the profound loss that many immaculate shape and it had a fantastic handful and I have come to learn that feel as a result of this incident will for- looking engine cowl on it, not the origi- N9073P is not the only Comanche with a ever be an imprint on who I am as a pilot, nal that made a distinct impression pain-in-the-rear cabin door.) I had always as an aircraft owner and as a human. on me during that early cross-country carried a preconceived notion that a flight. No, this could not be the same piston single could and would never feel make and model of airplane I had like a “real” airplane – I was wrong. “Don’t ever take for remembered from that training flight; The Comanche learning experience but it was, and I needed to see it for also introduced me to the ICS. I know granted what those myself. I fell in love about five seconds very few of the folks in the society, after seeing it firsthand. One demo flight but so far I have been totally impressed around you can do later, a chat with the local mechanic, by the knowledge, willingness to help, and a visit with the three other partners and incredible passion for the to make you a and I was in. I had purchased a 25 per- Comanche that exists in this group. A cent stake in a Comanche and it was one regret I have regarding my involvement better person.” of the most fulfilling moments of my life. in the ICS is I had planned to make I did everything I could to sink several of the Tribe fly-ins. I really For me the story begins back in myself into that aircraft. In a very short wanted to “show off” our airplane and January, 2006. After having been out of time, I was learning more than I thought there would be no better place to do so. flying for many years, I had decided to possible about airplanes and I loved every I also wanted to see other Comanche’s get back to a passion I had left behind, moment of it. I took the Comanche on and looked forward to long after-dinner and I was going to do so in a big way. several trips and always found myself chats about all the particulars in owning I went through a round of currency strutting across the ramp like a peacock and flying this airplane. As life goes, training, knocked off all the cobwebs showing off his feathers. I cannot recall something or other always got in the I could, and set out to purchase my first a flight where this airplane had not way. Usually it was work. In my short airplane. The majority of my flying had attracted the attention of one or two time with N9073P I never got the chance been done in Piper aircraft and I had people on the field. I was in heaven. to attend one of those sessions. It was every expectation of winding up buying Several times after holding a classic an opportunity lost, but one I intend into a Saratoga, or a Dakota or maybe “let me tell you everything I can about to regain in the very near future. even an Arrow. Frankly, the thought this plane” discussion, I found myself Thinking back on the beginnings of of owning a Comanche had never smirking, remembering that long cross- my search for the “right” airplane, I was crossed my mind. My total exposure country flight and the “what is that ugly also doing a lot of thinking about how to Comanches had been no more than thing” question. I’m a fan of irony. I was going to get into this world of a simple question to one of my instruc- The airplane was solid, a great IFR aircraft ownership. There were many tors while on a long cross-country trip cross-country machine. It was fast, well- options: single ownership, leaseback asking, “What’s that ugly thing parked on equipped, could handle a good amount situations, fractional ownership, or a the ramp over there?” I was young; it of weight and it had good legs. I loved partnership – all were being considered. was old. As we do when we are imma- to listen to its engine roar to life at the Frankly, I had heard nothing positive ture, I recall thinking to myself, “Who beginning of the take-off role at the about owning with partners, other would want to own something like that?” Taylor (T74) airport and I loved that than the ability to split the expenses. No, my sights were set on a mid-1980’s you really had to work to slow this The fact is, through all of this, everyone
20 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 who had influenced my perspective up for “the classics” (older cars, vintage to this point seems to have been missing airplanes, classic locomotives). To me all that’s good about a solid partnership. those items were novelties. They were Along with the purchase of this share, not practical, useful, or even safe. They came participation in Comanche Trails were something to just admire, not Inc. – four men, a Texas corporation, something to experience. An airplane and a great big toy. It was a lot of fun. like the Comanche conjured the same For me, a big part of the joy of flight basic thoughts. How wrong I was. For comes from sharing that experience, those of you who also love the specifically with others who have the Comanche – you know what I mean. same passion as you do. The partnership There are events or moments in In Memory: Paul, Lillian, was (is) a good group and I was enjoying Shawn and Kitanna Martin. each of our lives that are forever etched getting to know each of them better. in our minds. I can remember my first As I try to imagine folks reading this many lives in their time with us, and solo flight like it happened yesterday. article, I suspect many are anticipating both, through this, have taught me a I can clearly see the airplane I was flying, the following paragraphs to highlight few good lessons. what I was wearing, what my instructor what a great man, and partner Paul First, don’t ever take for granted what was wearing, what the controller in the Martin was, and that the following words those around you can do to make you Lansing, Mich. tower sounded like, the would be similar to those spoken at a a better person. Life is too short to pass taste in my mouth and the smells that memorial service. Sadly, for me, my up an opportunity to get to know peo- surrounded me that afternoon. I’m time with Paul was far too short for ple like the Martins. I know how painful certain that, 20 years from now, I will me to feel, in any way, shape, or form it is to loose someone close to you. I recall my first flight as an airplane justified in attempting to do justice to never knew how much it could hurt to owner and exactly what N9073P looked, his time on earth. The fact of the matter loose the opportunity to get to know smelled and sounded like that day. is, we had only met a few short times, someone you have contact with. Paul Martin represents the first friend and the rest of our relationship was Second, as a younger man, I was I have lost in an airplane accident and fostered out of several e-mail threads, (and still am to a good extent) always as remembering firsts go; this one will phone conversations and the common focused on the future. What is the latest be etched right beside the others in love for flying and specifically flying gadget? How is technology forever chang- my mind. Already they are blending N9073P. I’ve really learned more, about ing things like aviation and transpor- together as one impression - the man Paul in the past week than I had in tation? I could never understand people and the machine; they will both be the entire nine months of sharing this who held such high regard and passion sorely missed. Comanche with him. I do know this however; Paul and his family left this world a better place for all of us. As I am sure many of us do, from time-to-time I find myself disappointed that I did not get to know Paul a little better. It’s clear to me that it is an opportunity lost, and I hope my profound sense of loss is never forgotten. I hope that I do more to get to know the people around me and allow those interactions to enrich my life in any way they can. At the time of this writing, the remaining partners in Comanche Trails are plan- ning a meeting to determine how, and if, we go forward as partners. Regardless of that outcome, I will not overlook the fact that these other men represent another opportunity to gain new friends and to foster relationships that can enrich my life and (I hope) theirs, as well. We know very little, at this point, about the accident that took the Martins and N9073P from us. It’s too early to speculate, and frankly, too painful. The NTSB has been very good to us up to now, and we appreciate the way in which they have handled this case and their willingness to keep us posted on progress. What I do know is, we lost a good partner and his family; and we lost a good machine. Both touched
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February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 23 Tacoma, Washington USA @ek\ieXk`feXc:fdXeZ_\ JfZ`\kp:fem\ek`fe
CONVENTION NEWS Flying to the Pacific Northwest Bringing your Comanche to the ’07 Convention? Getting there is at least half of the fun by Jay Hulbert, ICS #15334, North West Tribe Chief
he Pacific Northwest is known as Puget Sound, it happens to be one of one of the world’s most magnificent those aforementioned places where the Tflying locales. Not only are we blessed scenery is simply stunning. with beautiful rivers, mountains, coastlines Mount Rainier, at 14,411 feet and the and islands, but from many Pacific Northwest tallest of the Cascade Range peaks, sits about airports you can see all of the above from 40 nautical miles east-southeast of the field, pattern altitude. dominating the horizon. Puget Sound, with Our 2007 Convention airport, Tacoma its stunning blue waters, lies to the north c Flying private aircraft to the Narrows (KTIW), is an outstanding facility and south of the airport. The Olympic Pacific Northwest offers plenty of flight-seeing opportunities, such located on Washington State’s scenic Mountains, rising to the west of TIW, are as this summertime glimpse of the Olympic Peninsula. Separated from defined by their jagged silhouette and northern Oregon coastline. Tacoma by a narrow reach of magnificent old-growth rain forest.
24 • Comanche Flyer FEBRUARY 2007 August Tacoma, Washington USA 14-19, 2007
Photo Credit: Tacoma Regional Convention & Visitor Bureau
The runway at Tacoma, 17/35, is 5,002 feet long and in very good condition. The airport features a tower and full ILS Tour Snapshot: approach, and the FBOs provide com- plete services for those who may need them. (More information is available Tillicum Village at www.airnav.com/airport/KTIW.) If you’ve heard anything at all about the Pacific Northwest region of the United ICS Convention features a States, it’s probably something related to our weather. We are famous for rain: taste of Northwest Native misty, persistent drizzle that ensures a luxuriant landscape, but can also provide American culture low ceilings and marginal visibility during the winter months. But, there is a little-known secret that popular destination for visitors PHOTOS COURTESY I could get into serious trouble for reveal- to Washington State, Tillicum OF TILLICUM VILLAGE b A totem pole ing – the weather from July through Village has been sharing Northwest representing A the raven and September is generally spectacular. Native American traditions for more the bear is one We’ve been accused of perpetuating than 40 years. example of the this rainy image to keep everyone else The name “Tillicum” is Chinook generations- from learning how great this place is, Indian lingo for “friendly people.” And old art of but August rainfall in Tacoma is less along with a good measure of this woodcarving on display. than that of Chicago, New York City, Northwest affability, 2007 ICS Convention Dallas, Kansas City, Miami or Atlanta attendees will be treated to an award- during the same period. winning barbequed salmon dinner, The West Coast is relatively dry during inspiring stage production and a display the warmer months because the sum- of North Coast Indian arts and crafts. mertime thunderstorms that provide Our four-hour adventure to Tillicum much of the precipitation in the rest of Village begins on Seattle’s central the country are a rarity here. The cool waterfront. We’ll relax and enjoy the waters of the Pacific Ocean and Puget magnificent scenery of Puget Sound and Sound moderate our temperatures, the city skyline during our one-hour b A northern-style replica of an minimizing the heating that feeds such cruise to Blake Island, site of the village. abstract Chilikat blanket is displayed storms. While we may have some stratus As we near the island, Tillicum’s by a Tillicum Village dancer. clouds early in the day (the infamous massive longhouse – with its hand- “marine layer”), they generally burn carved doors and painted panels fascinating tour of the customs and off by mid-morning. designed to honor various tribes of beliefs of the Northwest Coast Indians, The upshot is that our summertime the region – will grab your attention. where dances represent the myths and flying weather is usually outstanding, Upon disembarking, we’ll make our way legends of various tribes and enhance with prevailing good VFR conditions up to the longhouse, along a pathway the ethnic and cultural heritage of an throughout August. You will have little, strewn with clam shells bleached by the extraordinary people. if any, need to refer to your Stormscope or sun. Once inside, we’ll watch as whole Following the show, we will have a bit Strikefinder in this part of the country. wild salmon are roasted over an alder- of time to explore the trails and beaches, wood fire on cedar stakes in the tradi- watch a carving demonstration or browse The lay of the land tional Northwest Coast Indian style. through the gallery, featuring the work Geographically, the Northwest has two As we finish our buffet-style dinner in of local artisans – including hand-carved very different sides. East of the Cascade the longhouse, the lights will dim and the masks, plaques, totem poles and bead- Mountains, the terrain is expansive myth and magic of Indian lore will come ed jewelry – before boarding the boat high desert with few trees. Summer to life in a compelling performance for a cruise back to Seattle and return temperatures climb to the 90s during featuring the Tillicum Village dancers. bus trip to the hotel. the day, cool to the 60s at night, and This highly acclaimed 30-minute For more information on this tour, clear conditions will predominate. production leads visitors through a visit www.tillicumvillage.com Continued on Page 27
FEBRUARY 2007 Comanche Flyer • 25 INTERNATIONAL COMANCHE SOCIETY, INC. Return by July 1 to: ANNUAL MEETING & CONVENTION Shirley Nelson 925 Ludwick Ave. AUGUST 14-19, 2007 Blaine, WA 98230-5109 TACOMA, WASHINGTON Host Airport: Tacoma Narrows (KTIW) Personal Information Name: Your ICS #: Spouse: Spouse Member ICS #: Other: Number Additional: Address: Phone No.: Arrival Information By Comanche at KTIW Arrival Time Registration # Type ͘ Enter Flagship
By Commercial Airline (KSEA) Arrival Time Flight No. Date Airline
Note: Transportation will be provided from KTIW for private aircraft arrival time. If you are flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) via commercial airliner, transportation will be provided if we have your airline arrival information. Hotel Information Make reservations directly with the Tacoma Sheraton Hotel, (253) 572-3200, 1320 Broadway Plaza, Tacoma, WA 98402. Ask for ICS group rate (below). THESE RATES WILL NOT BE HONORED AFTER JULY 25, 2007 EACH ADD’L ROOM TYPE SINGLE DOUBLE PLUS TAX PERSON KING $120.31 $120.31 $10.00 13.5% DOUBLE DOUBLE $120.31 $120.31 $10.00 13.5% DELUXE KING $143.31 $143.31 $10.00 13.5% Convention Registration Registration fee includes: welcome reception; breakfast muffins, pastries, coffee, juice in Hospitality Room each day; mixer; banquet; ladies luncheon; seminars; tours & Airport Day lunch. # PRICE TOTAL Convention Registration ICS Member $495.00 Please List Guests’ Names Guests/Spouse $495.00 Tuesday Welcome Reception Included Tuesday Ladies Luncheon Included Wednesday Mixer (Includes pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres/Dinner on your Included own) Thursday Museum of Flight & Tillicum Village Tour Included Thursday Pike Place Market & Tillicum Village Tour Included Friday Fly Out to Boeing 747 Plant tour Included Friday Ladies Mall Shopping Tour Included Saturday Airport Day Included Saturday Banquet Included Each Registration by May 31 DISCOUNT REGISTRATION RATE $460.00 MENS SHIRTS AMOUNT ORDERED ON ATTACHED PAGE WOMENS SHIRTS AMOUNT ORDERED ON ATTACHED PAGE TOTAL ENCLOSED (No Refunds)
Information: Shirley Nelson (360) 671-7388/Email: [email protected] INTERNATIONAL COMANCHE SOCIETY, INC. Return by July 1 to: Continued from Page 25 Shirley Nelson ANNUAL MEETING & CONVENTION West of the Cascades, we have much north bank of the Columbia. Troutdale The South-North Route 925 Ludwick Ave. more rainfall during the fall, winter and will hand you off to Portland Tower Arriving from the south, you have AUGUST 14-19, 2007 Blaine, WA 98230-5109 early spring, feeding our lush forests of for clearance through its Class C and several good options. You can fly up TACOMA, WASHINGTON Douglas fir, hemlock and western red Class D airspace. California’s Central Valley over Red cedar. With the cooling waters of the Flying North from Portland to Tacoma, Host Airport: Tacoma Narrows (KTIW) Bluff (Red Bluff VOR, RBL) and (IFR) Pacific close at hand, temperatures you’ll be able to see Mount St. Helens, follow V23 to Medford and Eugene, then Personal Information are quite moderate, averaging in the an active volcano. Flight-seeing around up the Willamette Valley to Portland and 70s during the day and in the 50s at St. Helens is popular, and it’s amazing into TIW as described previously. The Name: Your ICS #: night during the summer months. to see Mother Nature at work building same route works quite well VFR, offering This geography gives us a few things a higher mountain. But do be aware of Spouse: Spouse Member ICS #: great views of Mount Shasta, the Siskiyou to consider when flying into western the TFR in the area for volcanic activ- Mountains and multiple lakes. Other: Number Additional: Washington. First off, most pilots flying ity. This TFR may be expanded during If you elect to fly up the eastern side from out of state will cross the Cascade periods of eruption. The ash sometimes of the Sierra Mountains from Las Vegas Address: Phone No.: Mountain Range, which bisects Oregon emitted during these occasional, mostly and Reno, just follow the range north Arrival Information and Washington. If you are arriving minor “belches” would be hard on to the Redmond-Bend area of Oregon from the south, you’ll find the Siskiyou engines, so it’s a good idea to contact By Comanche at KTIW Arrival Time Registration # Type (Deschutes VOR, DSD) and turn north- ͘ Enter Flagship range, straddling California and Oregon, Seattle Center on 124.2 for updates west between the Sisters Mountains between you and Tacoma. while in the area. and Mount Hood into Portland and points By Commercial Airline (KSEA) Arrival Time Flight No. Date Airline If you are flying IFR, MEAs above As you near TIW, you’ll note that north. Alternatively, you may continue 10,000 feet are common over the moun- the airport lies under the 6,000-foot north to The Dalles and follow the Columbia tains, but that shouldn’t be a problem base outer ring of Seattle’s Class B River west, as previously described. Note: Transportation will be provided from KTIW for private aircraft arrival time. If you are flying into Seattle-Tacoma International for any Comanche. There are many good airspace, and that there is restricted Another, less-traveled route from the Airport (SeaTac) via commercial airliner, transportation will be provided if we have your airline arrival information. VFR routes that follow major highways, airspace to the south of the field. The south that allows you to avoid most of and the many spectacular peaks above easiest way to remain clear is to over Hotel Information the mountains is to simply follow the 10,000 feet make for easy navigation fly Olympia (Olympia VOR, OLM) then Pacific coastline. The rugged beauty Make reservations directly with the Tacoma Sheraton Hotel, (253) 572-3200, 1320 Broadway Plaza, Tacoma, WA 98402. Ask by pilotage. go direct to TIW below 6,000 feet. You will of the northern California and Oregon for ICS group rate (below). THESE RATES WILL NOT BE HONORED AFTER JULY 25, 2007 fly over Puget Sound, but the waterway coasts is simply amazing. The area is EACH ADD’L The East-West Route is quite narrow in that area, and at any dominated by the rocky outcroppings ROOM TYPE SINGLE DOUBLE PLUS TAX PERSON One of the most popular low-level VFR reasonable altitude you’ll always be with- and green hills of the Coast Range, KING $120.31 $120.31 $10.00 13.5% routes is to follow the Columbia River in gliding distance of shore. Check your but there are also – particularly in DOUBLE DOUBLE $120.31 $120.31 $10.00 13.5% from The Dalles (Klickitat VOR, LTJ) to charts for the appropriate frequency Oregon – pristine beaches. Portland. The river runs at nearly sea to call Seattle Approach. DELUXE KING $143.31 $143.31 $10.00 13.5% A favorite sightseeing flight is to follow level through the Columbia River Gorge, For those arriving from the east who the Oregon coast from Newport to Astoria. Convention Registration allowing easy travel through the Cascade would like a higher-altitude tour of the The area is traversed by migrating gray Registration fee includes: welcome reception; breakfast muffins, pastries, coffee, juice in Hospitality Room each day; mixer; banquet; Mountains just about as low as you want Cascade Mountains, I recommend cross- whales, so keep an eye out for them, ladies luncheon; seminars; tours & Airport Day lunch. to fly. Below 3,000 feet, it is a special treat ing to the North. Fly to Lake Chelan as well as for other flight-seeing pilots. flying between the glacier-capped peaks airport (S10), and then follow the lake After over-flying Astoria, you can turn # PRICE TOTAL of Mount Hood to the south and Mount itself, northwest, into the heart of North northwest to OLM and Tacoma. Convention Registration ICS Member $495.00 Adams to the north. Cascades National Park. This area has While flying in the Gorge, you’ll want been referred to as “America’s Alps” Please List Guests’ Names Guests/Spouse $495.00 The North-South Route to observe the appropriate VFR cruising because of its rugged nature, punctuated Our Canadian brethren can easily Tuesday Welcome Reception Included altitude and stay to the right. While you by 10,778-foot Mount Baker on the reach Tacoma by flying down from the Tuesday Ladies Luncheon Included are looking for traffic, your passengers northern side and traversed by the Vancouver, B.C., area, and clear customs will see spectacular scenery, including Stehekin River on the east and the at several area airports. Phone ahead to Mixer (Includes pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres/Dinner on your Wednesday Included Multnomah Falls, the second-highest Skagit River to the west. U.S. Customs directly and notify them own) waterfall in the United States, several Skirting the south side of Mount Baker, of your expected arrival time, and be Thursday Museum of Flight & Tillicum Village Tour Included large dams and, of course, the mighty you can follow the Skagit River down to sure to hit that time within a 15-minute Thursday Pike Place Market & Tillicum Village Tour Included Columbia River itself. Skagit Regional Airport (KBVS), then window, either way. A faxed notification On this route, you will also fly over turn south and follow Puget Sound to Friday Fly Out to Boeing 747 Plant tour Included is not acceptable. For more detailed Hood River, Ore., where flat water and Tacoma. The scenic route is to stay on information, visit the International Friday Ladies Mall Shopping Tour Included steady prevailing winds have created the western side of the Sound, which Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Saturday Airport Day Included a windsurfing Mecca. This route is very provides views of the Olympic Mountains Associations at www.iaopa.org. popular with VFR pilots in any kind of and Seattle, but keeps you clear of Seattle’s In a future issue of the Flyer, we’ll talk Saturday Banquet Included marginal weather due because it allows Class B airspace. Please do be aware about great places to fly once you’re Each Registration by May 31 DISCOUNT REGISTRATION RATE $460.00 you to cross the mountains at low alti- of prohibited area P-51 over the U.S. in the Northwest, as well as interesting MENS SHIRTS AMOUNT ORDERED ON ATTACHED PAGE tude, staying well below the cloud deck. Navy’s Bangor Trident Submarine stopover airports for your trip. So keep Exiting the west end of the gorge, base. It is easy to spot the large piers an eye on this space. WOMENS SHIRTS AMOUNT ORDERED ON ATTACHED PAGE contact Troutdale (KTTD) tower on 120.9 and the blocky white missile house TOTAL ENCLOSED (No Refunds) for permission to continue through their from the air and, with a ceiling of Class D airspace, then proceed down 2,499 feet, is simple to just over-fly. the river at low level, following the Information: Shirley Nelson (360) 671-7388/Email: [email protected] February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 27 Men’s sizes: Small to XL Color: Royal Blue 2007 ICS Convention Schedule Women’s sizes: Small to XL Color: Light Blue Notes: All events are at the Tacoma Sheraton Hotel, unless otherwise noted. Arrival day transportation provided to hotel Tuesday Youth sizes: 4/5 to 14/16 (8/14) & Wednesday (8/15) from KTIW for Comanche arrivals and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) for commercial Men’s shirts have a pocket. Custom shirts have member’s name arrivals. Departure day transportation to KTIW and SeaTac provided Sunday (8/19). Airport transportation costs included in and airplane N# on left side. Custom shirts must be pre-ordered. registration fees. Transportation from hotel to off-site tour locations is provided and included in registration fees. Not available at convention. DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
Tuesday 8/14 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor REGULAR SHIRT ORDER FORM NUMBER OF MEN’S SHIRT SIZE COST TOTAL 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. Vendors North Exhibit Room SHIRTS 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Old Board Meeting Board Room $30.00 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Welcome Reception Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor, North & Center $30.00 Exhibit NUMBER OF WOMEN’S SHIRT SIZE COST TOTAL SHIRTS rd $30.00 Wednesday 8/15 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3 floor $30.00 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Opening Ceremony Tacoma 3 & 4 NUMBER OF YOUTH SHIRT SIZE COST TOTAL 10 a.m. – noon CFF Meeting Center Exhibit Room SHIRTS 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Vendors North Exhibit Room $20.00 Noon – 2:30 p.m. Ladies Luncheon Tacoma 1 & 2 $20.00 TOTAL 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Seminars Center Exhibit Room ORDERED 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Mixer Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor CUSTOM SHIRT ORDER FORM # OF MEN’S SHIRT SIZE NAME N -NUMBER COST TOTAL Thursday 8/16 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor SHIRTS $35.00 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Seattle Museum of Flight/Pike Seattle $35.00 Place Market Tour 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. Tillicum Village Tour Seattle/Blake Island State Park LADIES SHIRT SIZE NAME N-NUMBER COST TOTAL $35.00 $35.00 YOUTH SHIRT SIZE NAME N-NUMBER COST TOTAL Friday 8/17 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor $25.00 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Boeing Plant Tour/Future of Paine Field (KPAE) *Seats available for those $25.00 Flight Fly-Out* attending without their Comanche. Sign up at TOTAL
hospitality/registration desk. ORDERED 5 p.m. - TBD Tribe Night Determined by each tribe (area restaurant information to be included in a later issue)
Saturday 8/18 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. General Meeting Tacoma 3 & 4 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. New Board Meeting Board Room 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Airport Day/Hands-On Tacoma Narrows Airport Maintenance Seminar 6 p.m.- 7 p.m. Cocktails Tacoma Ballroom 7 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Banquet Tacoma Ballroom
Sunday 8/19 7 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor 7 a.m. - Transportation to KTIW & Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor KSEA for departures
28 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 Men’s sizes: Small to XL Color: Royal Blue 2007 ICS Convention Schedule Women’s sizes: Small to XL Color: Light Blue Notes: All events are at the Tacoma Sheraton Hotel, unless otherwise noted. Arrival day transportation provided to hotel Tuesday Youth sizes: 4/5 to 14/16 (8/14) & Wednesday (8/15) from KTIW for Comanche arrivals and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) for commercial Men’s shirts have a pocket. Custom shirts have member’s name arrivals. Departure day transportation to KTIW and SeaTac provided Sunday (8/19). Airport transportation costs included in and airplane N# on left side. Custom shirts must be pre-ordered. registration fees. Transportation from hotel to off-site tour locations is provided and included in registration fees. Not available at convention. DATE TIME EVENT LOCATION
Tuesday 8/14 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor REGULAR SHIRT ORDER FORM NUMBER OF MEN’S SHIRT SIZE COST TOTAL 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. Vendors North Exhibit Room SHIRTS 3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Old Board Meeting Board Room $30.00 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Welcome Reception Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor, North & Center $30.00 Exhibit NUMBER OF WOMEN’S SHIRT SIZE COST TOTAL SHIRTS rd $30.00 Wednesday 8/15 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3 floor $30.00 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Opening Ceremony Tacoma 3 & 4 NUMBER OF YOUTH SHIRT SIZE COST TOTAL 10 a.m. – noon CFF Meeting Center Exhibit Room SHIRTS 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Vendors North Exhibit Room $20.00 Noon – 2:30 p.m. Ladies Luncheon Tacoma 1 & 2 $20.00 TOTAL 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Seminars Center Exhibit Room ORDERED 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Mixer Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor CUSTOM SHIRT ORDER FORM # OF MEN’S SHIRT SIZE NAME N -NUMBER COST TOTAL Thursday 8/16 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor SHIRTS $35.00 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Seattle Museum of Flight/Pike Seattle $35.00 Place Market Tour 3 p.m. – 10 p.m. Tillicum Village Tour Seattle/Blake Island State Park LADIES SHIRT SIZE NAME N-NUMBER COST TOTAL $35.00 $35.00 YOUTH SHIRT SIZE NAME N-NUMBER COST TOTAL Friday 8/17 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor $25.00 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Boeing Plant Tour/Future of Paine Field (KPAE) *Seats available for those $25.00 Flight Fly-Out* attending without their Comanche. Sign up at TOTAL hospitality/registration desk. ORDERED 5 p.m. - TBD Tribe Night Determined by each tribe (area restaurant information to be included in a later issue)
Saturday 8/18 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration/Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. General Meeting Tacoma 3 & 4 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. New Board Meeting Board Room 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Airport Day/Hands-On Tacoma Narrows Airport Maintenance Seminar 6 p.m.- 7 p.m. Cocktails Tacoma Ballroom 7 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Banquet Tacoma Ballroom
Sunday 8/19 7 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Hospitality Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor 7 a.m. - Transportation to KTIW & Living Room/Foyer 3rd floor KSEA for departures
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 29 NEW STAINLESS STEEL DUAL EXHAUST SYSTEM
STC/PMA APPROVED FOR THE PA24-180/250 AND 260 COMANCHE
COMANCHE 180: $3595.00 PLUS INSTALLATION
COMANCHE 250/260: $3995.00 PLUS INSTALLATION Fiberglass AVIATION “Glareshield” PERFORMANCE One piece hand-laminate with a PRODUCTS, INC. molded Naugahyde texture, 975 Aurora Road designed to tuck under the Melbourne, FL 32935 windshield from the front, total- Phone: 321/254-2880 Fax: 321/254-9115 ly covering the top of the instru- www.aviationperformanceproducts.com ment panel. Glareshield Price List: Protects Instruments Piper PA 24/30 Comanche STC...... $275 From Intense Heat Piper PA 38 Tomahawk...... $275 Piper PA 28 Cherokee Series...... $275 The glareshield extends approxi Piper Cherokee 6, PA32, 34, Ex...... $275 mately three (3) inches past the Beech 33, 35 & Baron (1962-1970). $350 Beech 33, 35 & Baron (1971-1983). $450 front of the panel to shade instru- Cessna 120/150/140...... $275 ment faces. the reinforced “lip” Cessna 170/172/175...... $275 forms a nifty handhold on the Cessna 180/182/185...... $275 Glareshield’s front edge and pro- Cessna 210/206...... $275 vides room for mounting optional Cessna 337 Skymaster...... $275 FAA approved lights for greater Mooney 201 & up...... $275 visibility. Optional FAA approved lights...... $130 Glareshield shipping lower 48 UPS ground..$ 35
o r D e r F r o m “Windlock ” Device Dennis Ashby This control “lock” is designed to 288 CR 12200 be used inside the cockpit & Paris, TX 75462 attaches to the flight controls. Cannot be forgotten prior to 1-800-945-7668 flight! Voice: 903-784-8187 $69.00 Fax: 903-784-8145 ($6 S&H) www.aircraftglareshield.com
30 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 The International Comanche Society Invites You to Join Us Who Are We? What Does It Cost Per Year To Belong? An organization formed in 1972 with over For all U.S., Canada and Mexico: New mem- 3,000 Comanche owners, pilots and others ber- $66.00; renewals-$66.00 (Includes sec- who love these aircraft; both singles and twins. ond class mailing of the Flyer) For Europe Where Are We? and South Africa: $89.00 for the first year; In many countries on the six continents of the $89.00 thereafter and includes $9.00 returned world: Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, United to each foreign tribe for communications. Kingdom, South America and North America. Dues for Australia and all other countries are $79.00 for the first year and $79.00 thereaf- What Do We Do? ter. The spouse of a member may join ICS We exchange information and experiences also for $33.00 per year. This will ensure her about our airplanes, we make friends and we voting rights. have fun! We also help members with their technical needs including parts, publications How Do You Join? and member’s maintenance tips. Easy, just E-mail or Fax this completed form. If you are uncomfortable with sending infor- What Do You Get? Lots! mation over the computer, you may mail the 1. A monthly magazine The Comanche Flyer form to us. We accept checks, cash, money- (12 issues per year) is included. It is packed orders, MasterCard and Visa. Don’t forget to with helpful information. Chances are good include the expiration date. that this information will save you much more that you pay in dues. International Comanche Society 2. Access to technical expertise along with P.O. Box 1810 member discounts on certain parts. 3. Opportunities to attend Fly-Ins and our Traverse City, MI 49685-1810 annual convention. These are both social U.S.: 888-300-0082 and educational. A great way to make Other: 231-946-3712 new friends. 4. Membership card and certificate that you Fax: 231-946-6180 will be proud to frame and display in Email: [email protected] your home or office. Website: www.comancheflyer.com WELCOME ON BOARD! ICS MEMBERSHIP FORM– PLEASE PRINT
Name:______Spouse:______
Address:______
City:______State:______
Country:______Zip:______
Telephone:______Fax:______
E-Mail:______
Aircraft Model:______Address:______
Registration #:______S/H:______PAYMENT INFORMATION
Name:______Date:______MC Visa Check or Money Order Credit Card Number:______Exp. Date:______
Amount Paid (U.S.):______
Authorized Signature:______32 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 Date Tribe Event/Location Info Source/Host Feb 9-11 SW Fly-In/Laughlin, Nev. Lorne and Peggy Harmon, (928) 717-2630 or [email protected] Mar 23-25 SW Fly-In/Solvang, Calif. John Caton, [email protected] Mar 30-April 1 SC Fly-in & Gear Seminar Bruce Thumann, work (713) 649-8588, Fredericksburg, Texas home (281) 487-5782, cell (713) 875-3056, e-mail [email protected] North Central Tribe Apr 27-29 SW/SC Joint Fly-In/ John Caton, [email protected] or Bruce The North Central Tribe has had a Carlsbad, N.M. Thumann, [email protected] successful fall and winter so far. Our fall fly-in season started with the Glacier May Europe Oban, Scotland Barrie Taylor, [email protected] Girl Fly-in to Murfresboro, Tenn. July Europe Helsinki, Finland David Pring, [email protected] Assistant Tribe Chief Dave Fitzgerald reports that it was a great success with Aug 14-19 2007 ICS Convention John vanBladeren, (503) 329-8512, good turnout and a very interesting Tacoma, Wash. e-mail [email protected] or Jay Hulbert, museum experience. He highly recom- (503) 702-6403, e-mail [email protected] mends this as a stop for anyone wishing to learn about this amazing recovery Sept Europe Lucerne, Switzerland Fred Iselli, [email protected] and restoration. Sep 28-Oct 1 NC Delta Queen Cruise Norm Wright by e-mail [email protected], That was followed up with a lunch Tentative Port: Cincinnati, Ohio cell phone (954) 806-6379, phone at winter fly-in at Eagle Creek in Indianapolis. home (until June 1), (954) 584.9959. Arrangements were made with the FBO to park all of the Comanches on the front line. We did that but then Dave but the experience is truly once in a South Central Tribe Fitzgerald showed up in a substitute lifetime (it may actually get you hooked Brand C airplane with the wing in the as many cruisers are return patrons.) Fly-In/Gear Seminar wrong place and he was also almost an At this time, the details are being ham- March 30 - April 1, 2007 mered out and the price will depend on hour late (he claimed headwinds … Fredericksburg, Texas built-in headwinds). He got relegated the interest we receive, as we are work- You’ve been asking for it, now here it to the second row! Lunch at Rick’s ing on a group-rate discount. The dates is. Matt Kurke, owner of Comanche Gear Boatyard Café was excellent, as usual, for the cruise are September 28 through and landing gear expert extraordinaire, and the weather held so everyone could October 1 and it will depart and arrive has been contacted and is enthusiastic get home that afternoon. from Cincinnati, Ohio. The cruise will about conducting a Comanche Landing Our only disappointment was the stop at Madison, Ind. and Louisville, Ky. Gear seminar for everyone interested Maintenance Seminar in Rockford, Ill. before returning back to Cincinnati. on Saturday, March 31. As part of your that was snowed out the first weekend We will plan on flying into Batavia, ICS membership, the Comanche Flyer in December. Stay tuned for information, Ohio, the home of Sporty’s Pilot Shop. Foundation (CFF) has agreed to pick as it will be rescheduled. Ground transfers to the boat will be up Matt’s expenses for this seminar. In looking ahead to the remainder of provided at minimal cost. If you are Be sure to join us and learn all the this year, we have some exciting things interested, please contact Norm Wright basics and “gotchas” related to your in the works. We are trying to get a very for the latest information by e-mail at Comanche landing gear system. special fly-in put together for this fall. [email protected] or cell phone A Comanche will be on jacks for We all see the world from airplanes at (954) 806-6379. He can also be reached demonstration purposes. Gear literature everyday, and that is something we are at his winter home (until June 1) at will be provided and Matt’s own timeless very lucky to do as the general population (954) 584.9959. If you are interested collection of field service photos will doesn’t have this luxury. One of the in this exciting event, please let Norm be on display, for those in attendance. things that the public of yesteryear did know as soon as possible. Matt has agreed to spend as much time get to experience was river travel on a Tribe E-mail Updates as required explaining the ins and outs steamboat. Today the numbers of people If you are not receiving the North of our gear system, its components, and who have experienced this is very lim- Central Tribe e-mail update and emergency procedures. In addition, Matt ited as there are only three overnight would like to, please e-mail Zach will help the pilot/owner to devise a gear sternwheelers plying the Mississippi Grant, North Central Tribe Chief at inspection program to help prevent River system. One of these, the Delta [email protected] or Dave those common gear system problems Queen is registered as a National Fitzgerald, Assistant Tribe Chief at which seem to present themselves at Historic Landmark, and is an authentic [email protected], and they will the most inopportune times. steamer in all respects. It has hosted make sure to amend the list with your many famous people including multiple e-mail address. presidents over the years. It is not cheap, Continued on Page 34
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 33 Matt has also graciously agreed to Comanche landing gear. That is why There have been 20 rooms blocked make himself available both before and this fly-in has been scheduled in for this event, which will be held until after the Saturday seminar to anyone Fredericksburg. It is deep in the heart February 28, 2007. A 24-hour cancel- needing his services for landing gear of the Texas Hill Country, with a lot of lation policy will be in effect. To make wiring harness replacements. Anyone great food, sights, shopping, the Nimitz your reservation, call (830) 997-9990 wishing to take advantage of his offer Museum, and much more to keep you and mention International Comanche will need to contact him personally for busy all weekend. Those of you who have Society (confirmation #K668017) to get costs and to schedule a time slot. He been to Fredericksburg know how it is the group rate. The weekday rate of may be contacted at (239) 593-6944, for small-town shopping and enter- $99.00 per night will be available for cell (239) 404-7524, or by e-mail at tainment, and for those who will be anyone needing to arrive early or stay [email protected]. If you coming for the first time, you will want over for maintenance work. intend to take advantage of this oppor- to come back soon. Self-serve, as well as full-service fuel, tunity while he is in our area, it is very Fly into Fredericksburg Gillespie will be available at the airport for the important that you call him right away County Airport (T82) and taxi right same price for fly-In participants by as some parts may require long lead up to the Hotel. The Hanger Hotel is Fredericksburg FBO. Anyone wanting to times and he will need to get them in all done in World War II motif and is rent a car will need to contact either stock for your particular application. right on the ramp, so you can walk The Motor Pool at (830) 990-0562 or For the ladies, we realize most of your bags right off the plane and into Enterprise at (830) 997-1745. Note: The you probably have no interest in sit- your room. The weekend group rate is downtown area is only a few miles from ting around in a hanger listening to a $145.00 per night, and all rooms are the airport, and there will be a van to help technical and or hands-on seminar on non-smoking with a king-size bed. shuttle everyone around. So unless you plan to tour outside the local area, there should be no reason for everyone to rent transportation. The registration for this event will be $30.00 per person, which will include arrival snacks, cold drinks, local trans- portation, and seminar facility rental fees. Registration should be sent to bruce Thumann at 6430 Mayfair, Houston, Texas 77087. For any questions feel free to call Bruce at work (713) 649-8588, at home (281) 487-5782, by cell phone (713) 875-3056, or e-mail at [email protected]. Don’t miss this one. It is not often that we get an expert such as Matt to put on such a valuable seminar at the expense of the CFF. And, it may be some time before we can get him back to take advantage of his knowledge and expertise. Your gear system is one of the most important systems on your aircraft, and a full working knowledge of its components along with an owner inspection program are vital to the health and welfare of you, your loved ones, your aircraft, and the entire Comanche Fleet. April 27-29, 2006 Joint Fly-In Carlsbad Caverns, N.M. The South Central Tribe has been invited by our neighbors from the South West Tribe to join them for a joint Fly-In to Carlsbad, N.M. the last weekend of April. Please see their write-up in next month’s Flyer and mark your calendars now. Let’s all plan to take advantage of this opportunity to meet our fellow members from the West.
Continued on Page 36
34 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 FAA REPAIR STATION YYBR664L CUSTOM ENGINE OVERHAULS (and exchange) “A TOP RATED SHOP” - April 2005 Aviation Consumer New limit standards, new cylinder options, O.E.M. fuel systems, each engine balanced and test run. * T.B.O. WARRANTY * Cylinder & Accessory Service (800) 397-8181 www.poplargroveairmotive.com E-mail: [email protected] 11619 Rt. 76 Poplar Grove, IL 61065 PropellerS
F Dowty F Large Inventory F Hartzell F Same Day Shipping F McCauley F Uncompromised Quality F MT Propeller F Competitive Prices F Sensenich F World Class Warranty F Factory Trained Technicians F Rapco Distributor F Woodward PT6A
http://www.rockyprop.com e-mail: [email protected]
800-462-7605 2865 Airport Drive F Erie, CO 80516 Fax: 303-665-7164 faa/EASA crs fr6r545n GovernorS February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 35 Saturday Lunch Fly-Ins South west Tribe evident to all who attend, from their If it is difficult for you to make a full award-winning restaurants to their weekend fly-in, you may find the Fly-in beautifully appointed rooms. For the Saturday lunch gatherings with Laughlin, Nev. gamblers, Harrah’s offers over 50,000 Comanche camaraderie, sharing of February 9-11, 2007 square feet of casino space with some of that space designated non-smoking. flying stories, maintenance talk and For the past several years, our tribe Get on the website (www.harrahslaugh- lunch, to your liking. You should be able has hosted a very popular fly-in in lin.com) to check them out. Our nego- to find a schedule of the lunch fly-ins on Laughlin, Nev. This year’s fly-in will be tiated room rate is $62 per night. the South Central Tribe website at http:// held at the beautiful Harrah’s Laughlin After landing Friday afternoon (or groups.msn.com/SouthCentralTribeICS/ Casino & Hotel at the south end of earlier if you choose) on the Arizona side welcome.msnw and in the South Central casino row on the Colorado River. of the river at the bullhead/Laughlin Tribe newsletter Smoke Trails. Harrah’s standard of excellence will be Airport, you will be greeted by the host FBO – Sun Western Flyers. That evening, everyone will be on their own to explore the river casinos, see a movie, visit the famous car museum, etc., and choose one of the many restaurants on the river for dinner. COMANCHE PARTS This year, we will be offering two separate activities on Saturday. For the Comanche pilots: Hans Neubert, a well-known Comanche expert in ICS • SHOULDER HARNESS KITS and a member of our tribe, will be con- FAA STC/PMA ducting a three-part seminar regarding Inertia Reel and Strap Models 1) A maintenance program video pro- Complete Kit with Installation Instructions duced by Hans; 2) Discussion of engi- neering and testing of the stabilator PA-24, -30, -39 torque tube, along with graphs and photos; and 3) A video, again produced • ENGINE MOUNTS by Hans, describing the complete 1,000-hour gear AD, step-by-step. Of Repair yours or Buy from Stock course, Hans will be most willing to Repaired – Yellow Tagged answer any and all of our questions. White Tag for Exports For the co-pilots, we’ll be boarding vans and heading for Kingman, Ariz. for a tour of the Historic Route 66 • NOSE GEAR HOUSINGS Museum and the Mohave Museum of Repaired Cracked or History and Arts (both within 200 yards of each other). We will then take a lunch Worn Nose Gear Housings break and head on up Route 66 to the FAA Approved (P/N 21715) Grand Canyon Caverns at Peach Springs, Ariz. These caverns are reached by an elevator that drops 21 stories into the earth, where you will be treated to a – FREE CATALOG – 45-minute guided tour on underground trails through three-million-year-old 800-4KOSOLA (456-7652) undersea fossils. After this action- CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF SERVICE packed day, we will return to the hotel mid-afternoon. That evening, our cocktail hour (no host) and dinner (approximately $35 FAA APPROVED REPAIR STATION HE4R229M per person) will be catered by Harrah’s. A short business meeting and gift/cash drawing will follow. We KOSOLA AND look forward each year to this well- ASSOCIATES, INC. attended fly-in and hope to see you there. Lorne and Peggy Harmon will 5601 Newton Road be hosting this event. For further details, Albany, GA 31701 USA they can be reached at (928) 717-2630 229-435-4119 FAX 229-888-5766 or by e-mail at [email protected]. [email protected] • www.kosola.com Continued on Page 38
36 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 [email protected]
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 37 Fly-In Solvang, Calif. Update Your Old Comanche Panel March 23-25 The Southwest Tribe will find itself in Make Room for a MFD Solvang on the weekend of March 23-25. Solvang is located in scenic central California’s Santa Barbara County. A quaint Danish enclave, Solvang has retained its old-world, Scandinavian charm for more than a half-century. One will be drawn into the Scandinavian culture as they stroll the flower-lined streets or step into the bakeries, restau- rants, shops and galleries. Guests will be shuttled from the Santa Ynez (IZA) Update your panel to a standard “T” configuration. Add space for airport to the hotel located within walking distance of the town. new electronics. All panels computer drawn and laser cut. On Saturday, everyone will be free ‘58-60 Centerstack Conversion $950.00 (Fully STC’d) to explore and experience the many offerings of this picturesque village. That ‘61-68 Single or Twin $825.00 (Fully STC’d) evening the group will gather for dinner. Recuts left side – $250 • Recuts right side – $100. (Prior Panels) A shuttle will again be provided to the airport on Sunday. For more information, Contact: John Van Bladeren at: please contact John Caton by e-mail at [email protected]. Ron & John’s Comanche Service 2007 SE Ash Street • Portland, OR 97214 (503) 329-8512 (Day or Night) • Fax: (503) 234-0677
Cluster Gauges Fuel Senders STC SHIMMY DAMPER KIT S.W., AC, Rochester Overhauled ALH-001 & ALH-002 Overhauled APPROVED FOR PIPER QK1R429K MODELS PA24, 30, & 39 SER. WE OVERHAUL ALL INSTRUMENTS
Altimeters Airspeed Indicator Tachometers V51 WE STILL DO AEROMARINE INSTRUMENTS Heater Overhauls LIKE AIRSPEED FUEL FLOW Oil Temp Conversion Kits “The ONLY STC approved kit on the market” Use the New Rochester Probe with your OVERHAUL Your AC Gauge Hot plate
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STC Oil Temperature Coupler Kit, ALH-I-005 GEAR AND FLAP MOTORS FOR Approved for Piper Models PA-23 PA-24 PA-30-39 OTHER AIRCRAFT
1084 East Water Street, Hanger #3 Piper Airport, Lock Haven, PA 17745 Phone 1-800-443-3117 or 1-570-748-0823 Fax 1-570-748-1786 Web Site: www.airpartsoflockhaven.com E-MAIL: [email protected]
38 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 An affordable fix for those old Comanche Sun Visors!
As an optometrist and Comanche-owner (ICS #13091), I wanted better sun visors for my Comanche 400, so I obtained field approval for these. The parts are aircraft-grade black powder-coated aluminum and bronze tinted acrylic to provide maximum protection from disabling glare. I used physiological optics technology to ensure the tint is the best density and spectrum to block direct sunlight and minimize adaptation time to dusk light conditions. These utilize your existing mounts. $10.00*, includes plans and 337 Field-Approval paperwork. A PERFECT SAMPLE PAIR FOR YOUR USE AS A PATTERN TO MAKE YOUR OWN IS AVAILABLE FOR A $149.00* DEPOSIT, refundable IF returned within 15 days. No returns accepted after 15 days. Call and leave a message or fax or email me with mailing address and credit card information. *plus shipping & handling Dr. Steven A. DeGroff 150 Forest Park Drive • Berne, IN 46711 1-866-FLY-2020 • fax: 260-589-2911 email: [email protected] www.degroffaviation.com
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 39 FAA Approved Repair Station #DER765K Shoulder 39 Years Specializing in: Harness lStructural Repair lRoutine Maintenance lInspections Program lModifications lEngine Overhauls ue to the tremendous response, P.V. Aero and Kosola have Extensive Comanche Experience since Dagreed to extend the discount programs on their shoulder harness the days of old Bill Piper. Annual Inspections, installation kits to all ICS members 100 Hr. Inspections and 1000 Hr. Inspections indefinately. If you are not an ICS member, call (888) 300-0082 (U.S.) on All Piper Models. or (231) 946-3712 (other) to sign up so you can get the discounts. The shoulder harness kits provided ILIFF Aircraft Repair by Kosola and P.V. Aero exceed the FAA strength standards by a factor of & Service Co., Inc. 1.3 or more. Hangar 17 Have your ICS number and aircraft Tulsa International Airport serial number ready when you ask to Tulsa, OK 74115 speak to the shoulder harness program Phone: (918) 835-5554 Chuck Iliff person. The prices and phone numbers Fax: (918) 835-9572 for Kosola and P.V. Aero are as follows: E-mail: [email protected] KOSOLA Phone: (229) 435-4119 Fax: (229) 888-5766 Contact: John Brim Front seat: per seat price $420 to $440 for strap and $595 to $620 for AIRCRAFT the inertia reel setup. The prices vary according to serial number. COVERS Rear seat: per seat price $420 for strap and $595 for the inertia reel & ENGINE PLUGS Kosola is offering an ICS member discount of $50 per seat. TOLL FREE: P. V. AERO Phone: (918) 274-1616 800.777.6405 Cell: (918) 851-6864 Contact: Lenny Spall Both front seats are normally $475; and both rear seats are normally $475. ICS members receive a special, discounted price of $425 for a seat pair, or $800 for all four seats.
phone: 408.738.3959 fax: 408.738.2729 e-mail: [email protected] WWW.AIRCRAFTCOVERS.COM
Bruce’s Custom Covers, 989 E. California Ave. Sunnyvale, CA 94085
40 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 41 TRIBE NE W S W H A T ’ S H APPENING WITH THE S O U T H W E S T T RIBE Comanche Gear Conduit Replacement by Llyn Fulmer, ICS #14577
“The gear could not uring my 1961 250’s (96P) annu- Since my gear motor and transmission al in December 2005, my IA was were newly rebuilt and the gear circuit be raised by hand, Ddoing a gear retraction test and breaker, solenoids and wiring, etc. were reported that my gear would pop the all basically new (courtesy of Comanche even after disengaging circuit breaker when it was 99 percent Gear), my IA and I suspected the gear up into the wells. This had happened to conduits. We did the normal manual the rod ends from me while in flight a couple of times during emergency extension test (on jacks), the down lock.” the past year and was cause for concern. and while the gear extended normally,
c Looking aft at the old conduit routing, the left conduit goes under the right one.
42 • Comanche Flyer FEBRUARY 2007 ` The new conduits routed through the under- S seat bulkhead. it was impossible to raise the gear up by hand beyond 50 percent. So much for using that nice torque wrench adapter I had just fabricated. I must emphasize that the gear could not be raised by hand, even after disengaging the rod ends from the down lock. I could only imagine the strain put on the motor and transmission during the retrac- tion cycle. The solution was clear – order new gear conduits from Webco. The PMA parts received from Webco worked perfectly out of the box. I tested the new cables by hand before installing them, and they moved back and forth through the conduit without resistance. Webco supplied a multi-page set of instructions (mostly pictures) which described how to install the new con- duits. Additionally, I ordered new rod ends for both the transmission side and the gear down lock sides. Note: The instructions were written by Webco mechanics that have done the change a thousand times, and to me the directions were a little confusing. However, after starting the change-out, the instructions became perfectly clear. I must emphasize I am not an A&P, but I was able to do virtually all the work myself and with the help of Dave Blankenbaker, another Comanche owner (Thanks Dave). During the pro- cess, all work was properly supervised and inspected by my IA. The procedure is fairly straight forward requiring skinned knuckles and about 25 hours of labor. I was initially worried that when I removed the 40-year-old castle nuts that secure the conduits, they would be ruined. This was a concern because new hardware is NOT supplied with the new conduits, and the old nuts must be re- used. I used a set of standard slip joint pliers (not a special tool) to remove the nuts. Surprisingly, the nuts were either alarmingly loose or only finger tight. There is one critical aspect that requires the help of another person. When the conduits are bent and routed through both left and right wing roots, the end must be passed through the open conduit support. One person must be above in the cockpit to bend the con- duit and the other on the floor to guide the end of the cable through the support.
Continued on Page 44
FEBRUARY 2007 Comanche Flyer • 43 Continued from Page 43 After the old conduits were on the “If you have the old gear hanger floor, Dave removed the old gear cable from one conduit. It appeared that the old cable was not worn out. However, it appeared that just time and dirt had gummed up the interior to the point conduits you are living that it was nearly impossible for the cable to slide within the conduit. I snapped a bunch of digital pictures of how the original conduits were routed on borrowed time.” and how they were set up within the motor transmission bay. So I had plenty of reminders of how it should go together. The new conduits have a larger diam- eter and required new mounting clamps and hardware. It is best to have them on hand before you start your project. I encourage any Comanche owner who has a moderate mechanical apti- tude to take the time to do the job, or assist your maintenance personnel in replacing the gear conduits. Perhaps this will help stem the tide of Comanche gear collapses and gear-up accidents. An additional comment – after the conduits are installed, the service man- ual offers an alternate method of safety wiring the castle nuts adjacent to the bulkhead where the conduit ends pass through to the gear transmission (Fig. 6-14 of the Service Manual). The factory installed these nuts without safety wire. My IA suggested that the threads be “staked” (punched), or to use Locktite to keep the castle nuts from moving. I used Locktite to fasten these nuts and so far they remain tight. I used the method described in the Service Manual to safety wire the outboard nuts.
c A top-view look at the new conduits installed and routed.
44 • Comanche Flyer FEBRUARY 2007 ` The left side of the old conduit.
c The new conduit support collar.
Recommendations: 1. Place your order for the conduits NOW from Webco. Don’t wait until you need them. If Webco is out, you could wait months for a new supply to be fabricated. 2. Purchase and install new down lock springs at the same time you do the conduits (Piper part #83302-40 – confirm with your parts manual). This is the perfect (and easiest) time to do this, and I would guess your logbooks have no mention of this ever being done. 3. Have new hardware on hand before you start the project. 4. Take pictures and study the Webco drawings carefully as you disassemble and re-install the new conduits. 5. With the aircraft on jacks, this is an ideal time to do a “shake test” on the gear to help determine the overall condition of the bushings and parts. 6. Do not over bend the new conduits beyond the limits stated in the Webco instructions. 7. Remember this is 1950’s technology, but the gear is easily serviced if the service manual is followed. 8. Carefully follow your service manual to set up the gear after the conduits are installed.
If you have the old gear conduits you are living on borrowed time. For more information, Llyn Fulmer can be reached at (602) 799-1604.
FEBRUARY 2007 Comanche Flyer • 45 Comanche Classified Advertising: (Two issue minimum) Classified Minimum Ad Charge: $50.00 Payment must accompany advertisement order. Trading Post is a non-commercial, member to member service provided Extra charge for Photos. free of charge, one time per member, per year. The sale of aircraft is not All advertising must be received by the ICS in writing permitted in the Trading Post. (mail, fax, or e-mail) five weeks prior to the desired month of Ads must be submitted in writing only publication. Payment must accompany advertisement order. (fax or E-mail OK). Free ads may not be placed by phone. First 25 words are Renewals may be made by telephone, free. Extra words are $0.40 per word. but initial ad must be in writing. Fax (231) 946-9588 E-mail: nancy@ villagepress.com The publisher makes no warranties as to the veracity or accuracy of the information provided by the advertiser. The publisher is under For Sale: 1959 Comanche 250 no obligation to accept any or all advertisements. Spinner & Backing Plate, (painted) no cracks, scratches, corrosion, or International Comanche Society dents – excellent condition. Also, 12 Nancy A. Whitten volt Delco-Remy starter for Lycoming 2779 Aero Park Drive • Traverse City, MI 49686 O-540-A1A5 250 HP or any Lycoming 250HP both for $250.00 or sepa- Phone: (800) 773-7798 • Fax: (231) 946-9588 rately @ $150.00 each, plus shipping. E-mail: [email protected] Contact Bob Sayles, ICS #08300, (704) 947-8000. 2/2 Tachometer, Narco MK12D’s Loran, For Sale: Trunnion for sale, RH, PA24-260 Tip tanks, Knots2U fillets and wheel serviceable, TT3850. US$1200. 1967 PA-24-260B: #24-4684 TT- pods. Always washed, hangared and Removed for installation of 7806 SMOH 245 Hartzell 3-blade cared for. Never used for training. Australian trunnion to match LH 245 hrs SN. Paint-10 Interior-9 2- No accidents. Paint and interior a side. Phone +61-3-5445-6100 KX155’s with GSs, KX76A, KX64 nine. January 04 annualed with all (UTC + 11 hours). 2/2 DME, KLN 90B GPS with encoder, updates, not flown, but run regu- JPI Fuel Scan 450, Shaddin Analyizer For Sale: Parting out PA-24 20377 larly since. PowerTow included if AutoControl III, Intervox intercom, right wing. Call Nancy (978) 664- you act fast. Located in Michigan. standby vacuum, 1/4" glass. Owned 5303 evenings (EST) or see list on Make me an offer I can’t refuse, but since 1985 and much improved www.targetenterprises.com. 2/2 you must promise to baby my pride over the years. $85,000 Cliff CA and joy as I have for the last 20 For Sale: bRAND NEW still in (916) 747-3641 2/2 years. Cell (517) 281-0609. 1/2 boxes IO-320 B1A engine parts to complete an entire overhaul of 1964 PA30: 4,600 tt, 95 smoh, TWO IO-320 b1A engines. New PA30 / PA39 1165 smoh, 880 props, dual digi- Lycoming crankshaft balanced by tals, KLN89B, S-Tec40, KN62, etc, Barrett Performance. One set of tip tanks, paint/int/plastic/glass 8. cases already line bored. NEW Logs begin ‘72, work orders verify cylinders (8), camshafts (2), gas- times. Will wholesale, Tom (310) 200- kets, manuals, etc., PLUS 1 IO- 1527 for pics and specs, e-mail: 320 B1A engine 650 SMOH. Over [email protected]. 2/2 $50,000 worth of parts will sell for 1965 Twin Comanche PA-30: $32,000. (941) 539-5376. 2/2 2764 Hours TT, 840R/84OL, Flight For Sale: Propeller for Sale! Hartzell Phone, 190 DME, KR-85 ADF, 3-blade, top prop, HC-C3YR – 1RF/ Babied, petted and cared for: KT76A, ELT, Altimatic II W/Hold, F7590, including polished spinner 1964 Twin Comanche. Serial 175, WX1000 Stormscope, KX155 W/GS, and STC document. TTSN total time Total time: 2658, Hi compression New Paint, IFR Cert, Tip Tanks, Mark 48 hours. $7,500 Canadian. Call on all cyclinders. Left engine: 1176, 12. Owned over 33 years. My age is Terry Hope at Hope Aero (905) 677- Right engine: 979. New Century the only reason for selling. $92,000. 8747 or 1-800-268-9900, Fax (905) 2000 Autopilot with all the bells Call (260) 433-8009, e-mail 677-5935. 1/2 and whistles. StrikeFinder, Digital [email protected]. 2/2
46 • Comanche Flyer February 2007 Advertiser’s Help Us Get to Index Ada Aircraft Painting...... 14 Advanced Pilot Seminars...... 39 Aero Tech Services...... 11 Know You! Aerotech Publications...... 22 Aerox...... 30 Order an ICS Name Badge Today Air Parts of Lock Haven...... 38 Aircraft Specialty Services...... 43 Aircraft Spruce and Specialty...... 41 Wear an ICS name badge at fly-ins, Altus Aircraft Services...... 23 Avemco...... 11 air shows and all aviation events. Aviation Performance Products...... 30,37 Actual size is 2 X 3 inches. B&C Specialty Products, Inc...... 35 Bogert Aviation...... 14 Blue on white plastic with 3-color ICS logo. Bruce’s Custom Covers...... 40 $8 includes shipping in the U.S., Canada and CFF...... 15 Comanche Gear...... 21 Mexico. Overseas, add $1 per order. C&D Associates...... 32 Degroff Aviation Technologies...... 39 Dennis Ashby...... 30 For additional badges, use this format on plain paper. E-Z Heat...... 41 Eagle Fuel Cells...... Inside Back Cvr Electronics Enclosed is $______for _____ badges International...... Inside Back Cvr Type or print CLEARLY (What we see is what you’ll get.) General Aviation Modifications...... 19 Great Lakes Aero Products...... 44 Gulf Coast Stacks...... 11 1. nickname______Hartwig Fuel Cell Repair...... 41 Hartzell Propeller, Inc...... 45 2. name______Icarus Instruments...... Inside Back Cvr Iliff Aircraft Repair...... 40 3. City & State______J.L. Osborne, Inc...... 22 Johnston Aircraft Services...... Back Cvr Knots 2U...... Inside Front Cvr 4. plane #______Tribe______ICS #______Kosola & Associates...... 36 Nonmembers should leave ICS # blank or show crew title. Linda Lou, Inc...... 19 LoPresti Speed Merchants...... 37 Met-Co-Aire...... 32 Choice for above badge (circle one) Mike’s Upholstery...... 14 SAFETY PIN ALLIGATOR CLIP Park West Tours...... 48 Paul Bowen...... 32,48 Poplar Grove Airmotive...... 35 Please make checks payable to Doris Click and send to: Precise Flight...... 41 228 Doolittle St., Orlando, FL 32839-1474 Precision Propeller...... 37 Questair...... 14 Rocky Mountain Propellers, Inc...... 35 Ron & John’s Comanche Service...... 38 Schweiss Bi-Fold Doors...... 15 Sky-Tec Partners...... 22 Sound Ex Products...... 30 Travers & Associates...... 39 Tsuniah Lake Lodge ...... 11 Warren Gregoire & Assoc. LLC...... 19 Webco...... 64 White Industries...... 19 William Creech...... 48 Zephyr Aircraft Engines...... 23
February 2007 Comanche Flyer • 47 This is a “must read for all ICS members.”
This is an account of the 31 year career of a USAF Fighter Pilot. It deals with flying over 300 combat missions in fighters during three wars, WWII, Korea, and Viet Nam. He was shot down twice during WWII, flew F-86’s during Korea, and went on to command a F-100 squadron in the Viet Nam era. It also deals with some of the frustrations of bureaucracy and in retire- ment, his experiences as President of the ICS as well as owning and maintaining a Comanche for 2700 hours.
For info, call Bill at 915-581-3401 or order ($20.00 plus S&H) at www.the3rdgreatestfighterpilot.com, or www.authorhouse.com, or 1-800-839-8640
48 • Comanche Flyer February 2007
3-blade compact hub propeller
2-Blade compact hub propeller