APRIL 2015 VOLUME 42, NO. 4

The Official Membership Publication of The International Comanche Society CONVERT TO CURRENT NEXT GENERATION POWER-IN-A-BOX Truth is, your old generator is tired. And while you’ve had many great years together, it’s time to modernize to a safer, more reliable charging system, capable of maintaining the main ship battery at its peak. Plane-Power has the answer, with the most complete boxed alternator conversion kits available. Gear- or belt-driven and robustly powerful at low RPMs, we have a cool- running solution to feed any power need. Choose the generator replacement that will unleash your aircraft’s true potential — Plane-Power.

• Lighter weight • Precision balanced • Dual internal fans Alternators • Built-in noise filtration

• Built-in overvoltage and overcurrent protection • Modern solid-state design planepower.com Regulators • Included in conversion kits +1.877.359.5355

HET0024 Plane-Power Belt Alternator Ad_Comanche.indd 1 3/4/15 10:47 AM

Client: Hartzell Engine Technologies Ad Title: Plane-Power Belt Alternator Publication: Comanche Flyer Trim: 7” x 4.875” • Bleed: None • Live: Not Provided The Comanche Flyer is the official monthly member publication of the International Comanche Society P.O. Box 1810 Volume 42, No. 4 • April 2015 Traverse City, MI 49685-1810 U.S.: (888) 300-0082 Other: (231) 946-3712 www.comancheflyer.com Fax: (231) 946-6180 E-mail: [email protected] www.comancheflyer.com Published By the International Comanche Society, Inc. Managing Editor Melissa Frisbie E-mail: [email protected] CONTENTS Senior Advertising Director John Shoemaker 2 Letter from the President Bob Cretney (800) 773-7798 Fax: (231) 946-9588 E-mail: [email protected] From the Logbook Advertising Administrative Assistant 4 Trading Post & Classified Advertising Voyage to Madagascar — Part Three Stephan Hodgson Betsy Beaudoin Ph: (800) 773-7798, Fax: (231) 946-9588 10 ICS Membership Form Email: [email protected] 12 ICS and Tribe Officers Graphic Design Brandon Hoffman Board of Directors, E-mail: [email protected] Tribe Chiefs & Tribe Representatives Printer ICS Standing Committees Village Press 2779 Aero Park Drive 13 Traverse City, MI 49685-0629 Maintenance Resource Advisors www.villagepress.com CFF-Trained CFIs President: ICS Tool Loan Program Bob Cretney, ICS #2269, SC Tribe 428 McDaniel Rd, Ferris, TX 75125 Online Intelligence Cell: (214) 725-6584 14 Email: [email protected] AFMS for S-TEC 60 Vice President Feature Berl Grant, ICS #10704, NC Tribe 426 Mutton Creek Drive, Seymour, IN 47274 20 Orphaned Comanche Steve Zaboji Ph: (812) 522-2587 Convention News Secretary: Ron Keil, ICS #7001 24 2015 Convention LaVerne Stroh 1135 Christine Dr., Lapeer, MI 48446 Ph: (810) 406-2065 Cell: (810) 834-0168 26 Registration Form Email: [email protected] Treasurer: 32 ICS Items for Sale Pat Donovan, ICS #12246, MS Tribe 421 Piper Ct., Troy, MO 63379 34 Comanche Joe Phone: (636) 462-8370 Email: [email protected] 36 From the Tribe Chiefs CFF President: (non-voting) 37 Map of Tribe Boundaries Mike Foster, ICS #14077, SC Tribe 970 Flightline Dr., Spring Branch, Texas 78070 39 Cell: (210) 701-6795 ICS Name Badge Order Form Email: [email protected] Feature Maintenance Resource Advisors & ICS Tool Loan Program Contact 40 Needs your Stories, Tips and Tricks! (located on Page 13) Feature The Comanche Flyer (ISSN 08994223, USPS 2-324) is available to members; the $25 annual subscription 42 The Infamous Cracked Main Charles Littwin rate is included in the Society’s Annual Membership Landing Gear Strut Housing dues in US funds below. Comanche Flyer is published monthly by Village Press 46 Comanche Classifieds U.S., Canada, Mexico One year $72, Two years $136 47 Advertisers’ Index UK, Europe, Asia & Africa One year $98, Two years $188 48 Last Laugh All Other Countries One year $86, Two years $164 Spousal Members [Editor’s Note: In the March 2015 issue, there was a misprint in Steve Zaboji’s article, One year $36, Two years $72 “Orientation = Presence = Stabilized Approach = SAFE LANDING.” On page 20, Cover Photo Stephan Hodgson’s Comanche 260 Turbo C third column at the bottom: “... 30 degree radial 9 of the waypoint (airport) ...” Copyright Notice — the “9” should not be there. I apologize for any confusion it may have caused.] The act of making a submission for publication is an express warranty that such contribution does not infringe on the rights or copyright of others. Nothing appearing in the Comanche Flyer shall be reproduced or distributed without the express permission of the publisher. INTERNATIONAL Postmaster Send address changes to the above address. COMANCHE Periodical postage paid at Traverse City, MI 49686 SOCIETY, INC.

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­1 LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Welcome to the April issue of the Comanche Flyer. he visibility is one mile in opinion, as time moves on, this effort snow as I write this letter will be required for the survival the from my office, south of Comanche and ICS. Dallas, Texas. What is wrong T ICS should make every effort to with this picture? Spring is supposed support this process. Group pur- to be here! For me, it really doesn’t chases of avionics, paint, interiors, matter, as my Comanche is still in the large maintenance items, and financ- shop getting its face-lift prior to paint. ing would provide the avenue for our From time to time the subject comes members to achieve this goal. In turn, up regarding the future of Comanche as this ICS support gets the younger Aircraft and the future of ICS. The group involved in the Comanche, they 30-plus-year-old pilot who generates perpetuate the organization. an income which will support a $200K aircraft is usually not interested in the Examples of these upgrades include Comanche, due to its dated avionics, Lee Hussy’s 400, Dave Lessnick’s 250, paint and interior. If those issues were Marvin Wade’s 250, Av Shiloh’s C Model commensurate to today’s leading edge 260, Bill Schaeffer’s PA-30, Alan and production aircraft, the Comanche per- Kate Burrows’ C Model PA-30, and the formance statistics would make it a latest, Ed Pepper’s C model PA-30, purchase option for that type of indi- which should be at OSH this summer. vidual. The last few years have seen I’m sure I’ve missed other members a number of ICS members upgrade who have totally renovated and mod- their aircraft in this manner. In my ernized their Comanches — please

Comanche Flyer Submission Guidelines

All members are encouraged to submit articles for publication in Although submissions are reviewed for technical accuracy, the the Comanche Flyer. If you have an article about a maintenance event, information in this magazine is meant for reference only. Any trip, piloting technique, or anything else pertinent to Comanche modifications, alterations, or major repairs to U.S. aircraft require ownership, please share it with your fellow members. FAA-approved data as a basis for beginning work, and as such should not be based solely on information contained in this magazine. The For those with access to the Internet, please submit the article International Comanche Society does not endorse any piloting via e-mail, preferably in Microsoft Word. You may also include the adverse to published FAA regulations. article in the body of your e-mail message. Include your full name, as you would like it published, and your ICS number. Submissions are subject to editing and revision unless specifi- cally requested to be published as submitted. The right is reserved Please attach digital pictures, if applicable, in jpeg format. to publish or not, any submission. For best results, use the highest resolution setting your camera will allow. Photo files under 500 kb in size typically do not Deadline for all submissions is the 20th of the month, approxi- reproduce well. mately 40 days prior to month of publication. Send to: Melissa Frisbie, Managing Editor at [email protected] Articles and photos may also be sent via U.S. Mail to: Melissa Frisbie • 125 N. Turnberry St., Wichita, KS 67230

2 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 accept my apologies. The point is, with Museum (CWAM) at LNC will be • The ICS Spring Board Meeting less investment than would be made in used for ground school. The Dallas (SBM) will be held in Santa Fe, a used new generation airplane, you area provides a variety of different New Mexico, April 18, 2015. We will can have a comparable Comanche with types of airports in close proxim- use Landmark Aviation at the Santa more payload, range, lower operating ity to LNC, as well as many open, Fe Municipal Airport (SAF) as the costs, and room. We just need to get uncongested areas for flight train- FBO and the Doubletree by Hilton that message out to the flying public. ing. Fuel at LNC is some of the for rooms and the board meeting. In Look for a great article by Comanche lowest in Texas and maintenance is addition to meeting old friends and Flyer contributing writer, Steve Zaboji, available, if needed. A great speaker gaining new ones, you will learn a on Ed’s plane in the April AOPA Pilot will address us at the Saturday lot about ICS and the issues that Magazine. This is an excellent example Night dinner. generate what you, as a member, of how to do it. experience. • The 2015 Annual Convention will Last but not least, read the As I've mentioned in previous be held June 17-20 in “Orphaned Comanche” article in this issues, the following upcoming events City. Each issue of the Flyer will issue. It is a heartwarming story that are worth noting and ones you should contain updated information about describes the spirit and type of people really consider attending: the convention, attractions and who make up ICS. • CPTP will conduct a Comanche schedules. Keep in mind that in training event in Hinesville, Georgia, an effort to keep things simple, Tales from the Wide Side April 17-19. These clinics are a great nearly all expenses connected Both optimists and pessimists way to “get away,” beat the cold, with the convention are included contribute to society. The optimist enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow in the registration fee. Because of invents the airplane; the pessimist, Comanche pilots, and improve your this most of your total conven- the parachute. flying skills and knowledge, all at the tion cost is contained in it as well. ‘Til next month, same time. Look for future dates and Additionally, Sundance Aviation places of additional training events at Sundance Airport has very low in the “From the Tribe Chiefs” sec- fuel prices, which will save you Bob Cretney tion of the Flyer. $50 to $100.This promises to be • The CFF will conduct a CPPP event a great venue. To date, seminars in Lancaster, Texas, October 9-11. will be presented by MT Propellers, The top shelf hanger and classroom Concorde Battery, Garmin, and facilities in the Cold War Aviation Knots 2U. More are pending.

ICS Past Presidents

2011-2012 Zach Grant 1999 Roy Roberts 1989 William Creech 1979 Larry Larkin 2009-2010 Bernie Mazurek 1998 Harley McGatha 1988 Jim Fox 1978 Clifford Younger 2007-2008 Dave Fitzgerald 1997 Charles Wiseman 1987 Pat Rowe 1977 Art Shriver 2006 Lawrence Paratz 1996 Bryce Campbell 1986 Ted Peifer 1976 Mike Keedy 2005 Karl Hipp 1995 Jess Bootman 1985 Bill Shank 1975 George Smith 2004 Skip Dykema 1994 Chuck Medicus 1984 Jerry Irvin 1974 Paul Rechnitzer 2003 John Van Bladeren 1993 Dale Vandever 1983 Bill Stanyer 1973 Andy Speer 2002 Larry Rackley 1992 Bill Jackson 1982 Norn Berneche 2001 Robert Noble 1991 Martin Busch 1981 Ben Kitchens 2000 David Buttle 1990 George Burson 1980 Jack Holaway

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­3 From the Logbook

On the ground in Paradise.

Voyage to Madagascar Part Three: The Secret Paradise of Sainte-Marie by Stephan Hodgson

y love affair with the Piper added are a lightweight starter, new Comanche started at birth. battery cabling to eliminate the hot MDad owned a Comanche 250 start issues, a JPI digital fuel monitor and at the ripe old age of six months, to stop running the tanks dry, and I flew right seat from France to South vortex generators that have made such Africa in January 1981. Dad’s second a positive change they merit their own Comanche was ZS-ONX, a 260 Turbo technical article. Due to the poor radio C, which he purchased in 1999, the coverage in this part of the world, I’ll year before I passed my PPL. soon be installing an HF radio and, At 6 months old I was already be- When I started seriously looking hind the yoke of a Comanche. perhaps, one day I will upgrade the at purchasing my first airplane three avionics if something stops working years ago, the Comanche was naturally ZS-ONX has almost all the speed that is not worth fixing. Until then, I at the top of my list, but finding a good mods available, tip tanks, is IFR have an iPad. one would take time. Destiny solved equipped, and apart from a new With now 150 hours of Comanche that problem when my father decided paint job and freshened up interior it time logged in ZS-ONX, I’ve been able to upgrade to a Malibu JetPROP DLX. didn’t need much. The only items I’ve to explore the tremendous flexibility

4 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 and unmatched performance of this impressive aircraft. Being part of ICS and the worldwide Comanche frater- nity is not only an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences, but also the sound reassurance that if you need support there is someone to talk to. My family and I hope to enjoy many more years of Comanche adventures to breathtaking destinations. One such destination, which has become our favorite, is the magical island of Sainte-Marie. “ZS-ONX, cleared for takeoff runway 19, wind 230 8 knots, left-hand turn, call when ready for estimates.” (continued on next page) Enjoying life in the pool at Princess Bora Lodge.

On the way to the pirate graveyard.

The white sand beach in from of our bungalow.

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­5 With the nose pointing straight 3450-foot runway, lodged between I called the tower and gave my ETA down the Toamasina runway, I pushed the main island and the tiny Nattes and altitude. It is only a 30-minute the throttle all the way forward. The island. Sainte-Marie is quite simply flight from Tamatave so I decided to big Lycoming IO540 roared to full RPM the Garden of Eden. stay low at 1500 feet and throttle back and 30 inches of manifold pressure. to 22 inches and 2200 Rpm at a little Portuguese sailors discovered After one last glance at the oil pressure under 11 Gal an hour. ONX settled and temperatures, my feet came off the the island in 1506 on the day of down to an efficient 130 knots TAS. Assumption. They avoided wrecking brakes. ZS-ONX leapt forward clawing “Whale!” — my daughter excit- their ship on the reef and to honor through the thick humid ocean air and edly pointed out the window as we with a slight backpressure, she flew off the Virgin Mary called it Santa-Maria. cruised along the coastline. June to the runway with effortless ease. The name stuck to this natural refuge September is the humpback whale breeding season and hundreds of whales migrate every year to the calm protected waters of Sainte-Marie bay to breed and give birth. Even at this altitude, we could clearly admire these magnificent 80,000 lb creatures jump- ing out of the water, crashing down and sending a spray of water high in the air. We were now crossing over the lagoon of Foulpointe, a small coastal fisherman’s village famous for being one of the main popular holiday des- tinations. I called to switch over to the Sainte-Marie tower and started the short ocean crossing. Oil pres- sures and temperatures good, engine monitor showing CHTs and EGTs of all cylinders in the green, and fuel on left main sufficient; all OK for the crossing. The last thing I wanted was to dodge whales during an emergency landing! Nonetheless, we all had life vests available and a six-man life raft on top of the baggage in easy reach to float to safety in the unlikely event we encountered a flying whale. This way to the pirate graveyard. Five minutes later an ethereal image appeared on the blue horizon A left-hand turn over the Toamasina located along the storm battered east- — Sainte-Marie in all its splendor bay and on to heading 036. This would ern coast of Madagascar. It has an materialized before us. We could see take us along the coastline until abundance of fruit and drinking water, the turquoise waters of the lagoon Foulpointe (located on the northern and during the 17th and 18th centuries clearly surrounding it. I called the part of the east coast of Madagascar) was close enough to the main sailing tower and the friendly controller and the TMA boundary; then over the routes from the Indies to become a confirmed there was no traffic and ocean to Sainte-Marie, a little known popular pirates’ lair. Sainte-Marie was the wind conditions were calm. tropical island paradise 70 nautical the southern hemisphere equivalent of Sainte-Marie, although considered an miles north of Toamasina and 20 miles Tortuga (a Caribbean island that forms international airport due to the pres- off the east coast of Madagascar. It is part of Haiti), and although Captain ence of customs and immigration, 35 miles long, less than eight miles Jack Sparrow never sailed the Black is not in controlled airspace. The wide, and surrounded by a magnifi- Pearl into Sainte-Marie’s bay, real infa- runway is oriented like Toamasina, cent lagoon and coral barrier. On mous pirates such as John Avery and 01/19. I told the controller I would the southern tip is the Sainte-Marie William Kidd left their mark in Saint- be coming in on 19 and pitched the International Airport with its asphalt Marian history. nose down.

6 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 I approached on a tight downwind and buzzed the lodge we would be stay- ing at. Princess Bora Lodge & Spa has been a favorite getaway since our first visit only a few months after we arrived in Madagascar in 2009. Two brothers, Patrice and Francois-Xavier (a.k.a. Fifou), own it. We consider it quite simply the best lodge in Madagascar. Like the Piper Comanche, they have gotten the ingredients balanced just right. Warned of our arrival, the lodge now had time to send the Zebu (humped or Brahman cattle) wagon to the airport to pick us up. Downwind checks done, tight base onto finals, landing checks, wind calm, and just the right amount of trim … the landing The beautiful bungalows at the lodge. was so soft we could not even feel it. Sometimes it does happen as a pilot I parked next to Fifou’s Cessna 206. indicator — if someone siphoned fuel that we even surprise ourselves, but The lodge staff came onto the apron from a tank I would know it. I then of course we will never admit it. As I with wet towels for us to freshen up joined my wife and children at the stopped the plane to swing it around and take all of our baggage. I locked airport gate next to the tiny terminal. to backtrack to the terminal I grinned up the plane, installed the covers and We walked through the parking lot to a at my wife and said, “I hope my land- chocks, and stuck some duct tape on patch of grass where two Zebus named ing was to your satisfaction my dear!” all the fuel caps as an anti-tampering Babord and Tribord (Starboard and

F.A.A. Certified Repair Station VI4R597M

“The top-rated shop – AGAIN!” Aviation Consumer July 2013 2-YEAR 500-HOUR WARRANTY

Call L.J. or Herman 800-204-0735 Website: zephyrengines.com • E-mail: [email protected]

ICS 12289 PA-30 N808N

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­7 Custom Engine Overhaul A humpback whale trying to fly. Pirate tombstone dating back to 1788. Sainte-Marie Airport has a stunning approach.

8 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 Port, in English) were ready to take us Princess Bora Lodge is on the west turned out to be an adventure. We took to the lodge in a traditional ox-wagon. side of the island overlooking the bay a Tuc Tuc (three-wheel taxi) from the On a scale of 1 to 10 on comfort and towards Madagascar. The bungalows hotel and went down the main road speed, if the Comanche is a ten then range from comfortable to extremely towards the capital, the little town of the Zebu wagon is a one, but it is fun luxurious. The lodge garden is a tropi- Ambodifototra. Just before the town and the lodge is only a five-minute cal splendor. My wife and I relish the there is the port and a natural internal walk down the road. truly authentic experience of the bay. Our taxi turned off the road onto a Upon arrival at the lodge Patrice, jungle spa. Trained therapists using dirt track and half a mile later stopped his wife Claire, and Fifou were there natural oils and plant extracts from at the edge of the water near some to welcome us. They have become the island give massages and various pirogues (type of canoe). “It is high good friends. Their family has been body treatments. It is a divine experi- tide, you must take a pirogue,” he said in Madagascar for seven generations ence. Finally, the bar and restaurant much to our children’s joy. The pirogue and is an important part of Madagascar overlook an infinity pool, itself over- boatman poled us along for ten minutes aviation history. Their grandfather looking the bay. Life does not get much around some mangroves (trees/shrubs opened many airfields in Madagascar, better than sipping a cocktail on the with their roots submerged in water), including the Saint-Marie airstrip in pontoon watching the sun setting on we managed to get out without falling 1936. It started as a grass strip and Madagascar. over, and walked the last half-mile to was later stone paved. The island is fun to visit. The the graveyard. It was deserted. Most of Their great uncle, Percy, partici- people are very friendly, there is no the gravestones have weathered with pated in the Rally of the Colonies in crime, and the island is clean. One the writing beyond recognition, but 1937. He left Madagascar the 15 June of the “must dos” is the pirate grave- others have been maintained prob- 1937 in a Puss Moth F-APZX with one yard. One would have expected it to ably by descendants of the deceased passenger as navigator. Three aircraft be developed into an organized major pirates. One tries to imagine these from Madagascar participated, two tourist attraction. On the contrary, it men that sailed around the world in (continued on page 11) Puss Moths and one Caudron Phalene, all three single-engine piston aircraft. The start was at Maintinairo; they took off at the passage of a Bloch 120 trimotor, which covered the regular Get Oiled postal service between Tananarive Before You Start! (Antananarivo) and Elisabethville Install an Oilamatic (now Lubumbashi in the Democratic Aircraft Engine Preoiler Republic of the Congo), to cross the Mozambique channel together. The trimotor, which reduced its cruising speed to fly with the group, had an inflated pneumatic boat in the cabin which would be thrown out at low altitude in the event one of the rally participants had an engine failure, after which a military hydroplane sta- tioned in Diego-Suarez on alert would REDUCE ENGINE WEAR! come to the rescue. The trio only flew during the day. They reach Dar es Up to 70% of engine wear Salam and Nairobi on the 17th. They is caused by insufficient left the 20th for Lake Victoria and got lubrication during start. to Assoan on the 23rd, then Tripoli on the 27th. They arrived at Orly Airport Certified on Comanches in Paris on the 4th of July. They had no and Twin Comanches GPS, no radio beacons, no autopilot, no weather forecast, and no ELT. Few today would even attempt this trip in http://www.oilamatic.com a modern twin, let alone a single, even P.O. Box 5284 • Englewood, CO 80155 with a GPS. (303) 770-0175, 1-800-343-7623, FAX (303) 793-0493

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­9 INTERNATIONAL KEEP YOUR COMANCHE SOCIETY, INC. MEMBERSHIP GOING!

You know how valuable the International Comanche Society has been to you for helping you learn about and enjoy your Comanche airplane, both singles and twins, providing a high-quality magazine, and for the camaraderie you’ve experienced among your fellow members. Don’t let your membership lapse or miss a single issue of Comanche Flyer! And for convenience, we are now offering multiple-year memberships! Fill out the renewal form below, and e-mail, fax, or mail it back to us, and keep enjoying the International Comanche Society!

Name:______ICS Number:______Address:______City:______State:______Zip:______Country:______Telephone:______Fax:______E-Mail:______Aircraft Model:______Based Airport Identifier:______

Registration/Tail #:______Serial #:______

Renewal Selection Spousal Renewal U.S., Canada, Mexico* UK, Europe, Asia, and Africa** All Other Countries Spouse’s ICS#______One year – $72 One year – $98 One year – $86 One year – $36 Two years – $136 Two years – $188 Two years – $164 Two years – $72 *Includes second-class mailing of the Flyer **Includes $9 returned to the EU tribe for communications ------PLEASE PRINT ------

YOUR SPOUSE CAN JOIN, TOO! One of the beauties of owning and flying your own airplane is the quality time you get to spend with your spouse, traveling to new destinations or social events, and filling the memory book for years to come. Your spouse can also join the International Comanche Society for only $36! With a spousal membership, your spouse will receive a Membership Kit containing a folder, membership card, membership certificate, a cloth ICS patch, ICS decal, access to the popular ICS website and discussion forums, and voting rights! Simply fill out the form below and return it with payment to start your spouse’s membership today!

Your Name:______Your ICS Number:______Spouse’s Name:______Address:______City:______State:______Zip:______Country:______Telephone:______Fax:______E-Mail:______Spousal Membership One year – $36 Two years – $72

PAYMENT INFORMATION (Please total all selections) MC Visa Check or Money Order Credit Card Number:______Exp. Date:______Amount Paid (U.S. Funds):______

------PLEASE PRINT ------Authorized Signature:______

Please mail to: International Comanche Society, P.O. Box 1810, Traverse City, MI 49685-1810. 10 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 rotting wooden boats, with only the of eco-volunteers to come to Sainte- The next few days were relaxing, wind in their sails and hand-drawn Marie and other sites in Madagascar enjoying the translucent waters of the maps. Ironically, Percy and his friends, to study the humpback whales. lagoon, delicious cuisine and far too while sitting under the coconut tree These eco-volunteers also serve as many massages. Everyone should visit planning their flight to France in 1937, guides on the boat trips with tourists. Sainte-Marie at least once in their probably thought these pirates were a Humpbacks are very inquisitive and lifetime. It was now time to head back mad bunch of sailors. one surfaced right next to the boat. to Toamasina. We took off towards the south and banked left along the The next day we went on a whale- Its head came up until its large glassy east coast. I flew ONX along the mag- watching trip. Sainte-Marie is one of eye was looking straight at me, less nificent lagoon for a few minutes and the best places in the world to see than five feet away. They are gigantic then banked right towards Toamasina humpback whales up close. These creatures, immensely powerful leap- and climbed to 3500 feet. I lazily peaceful creatures migrate thousands ing acrobatically into the air, yet their switched on the Altimatic autopilot of miles every year between the cold species is fragile, decimated by whal- and altitude hold. ONX was purring waters of the southern pole to feed ing, but thankfully slowly beginning along happily. I was already thinking and the tropical waters of Madagascar to recover. This year was special as of my next flying adventure, a place to breed. In 2009 Fifou started an for the first time a humpback whale so unique that it could only be in association called CETAMADA to birth had been recorded on film, an Majestic Madagascar. raise awareness in Madagascar about amazing site to behold and a reminder marine mammals, notably humpback how little we know of them and how whales. Today, all hotels around special life is. To put things into per- Madagascar respect the golden rules spective, there are almost 10,000 established to not disturb whale pods. times more humans on earth than Every year Cetamada attracts dozens there are humpback whales.

Heritage Aero, Inc.

Your Midwest Comanche Specialists www.heritageaero.com 815-395-0500 815-395-9044 (fax) 1651 Grumman Drive Rockford, IL 61109

Please mail to: International Comanche Society, P.O. Box 1810, Traverse City, MI 49685-1810. APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­11 2014-2015 ICS and Tribe Officers

President: Secretary: CFF President: Bob Cretney, ICS #2269, SC Tribe Ron Keil, ICS #7001 (Non-voting ICS Board member) 428 McDaniel Rd 1135 Christine Dr. Mike Foster, ICS #14077 Ferris, TX 75125 Lapeer, MI 48446 970 Flightline Dr. Cell: (214) 725-6584 Ph: (810) 406-2065 Spring Branch, Texas 78070 Email: [email protected] Cell: (810) 834-0168 Cell: (210) 701-6795 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Vice President Berl Grant, ICS #10704, NC Tribe Treasurer: 426 Mutton Creek Drive Pat Donovan, ICS #12246, MS Tribe Seymour, IN 47274 421 Piper Ct. Ph: (812) 522-2587 Troy, MO 63379 Phone: (636) 462-8370 Email: [email protected]

Southeast: Northwest: E. Canada: Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep Phillip Hobbs, ICS #10509* Tribe Chief Dennis Springer, ICS #10237 Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep Tim Stain, ICS #168357* Ph: (704) 651-9417 4796 Drew St. N.E. Laurier Avenue Email: [email protected] Salem, OR 97305 Toronto ON M4X 1S2 Canada Ph: (503) 390-9444 Ph: (647) 341-9100 (home) Northeast Tribe Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep CJ Stumpf* East Randolph, VT Tribe Rep Bill Case, ICS #16889* P.O. Box 549 Europe: Ph: (617) 816-8766 Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep Kate Burrows, ICS #17285* Email: [email protected] Lebanon OR 97355 Ph: (541) 259-5557 Ramsey Road, Rockwood North Central: Cell: (503) 260-2473 Laxey, Isle of Mann IM4-7PY United Kingdom Tribe Chief Bob Williams, ICS #13853 Email: [email protected] Ph: 44 1624 861957 (h) 647 Robins Gate Email: [email protected] Akron, OH 44319 South Central: Ph: (330) 867-6711 S. Africa: Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep Bob Fox, ICS #13650* Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep Russell Knowles, ICS #16469* Cell: (330) 592-3111 1630 W 35th North St. Email: [email protected] Box 1114, Halfway House Muskogee OK 74401 1685 South Africa Tribe Rep Zach Grant, ICS #15515* Cell: (918) 607-6880 Ph/Fax: +27 11 8052902 Indianapolis, IN 46214 Email: [email protected] Cell: +27827809228 Cell: (317) 201-4293 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] W. Canada: Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep Ken Mori, ICS #3894* (Email preferred contact) Australia: 1433 Copper Mountain Court Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep George Mills* Mid States: Vernon BC V1B 3Y7 Canada Panshanger P.O. Box 269 Tribe Chief/Tribe Rep Carl M Talkington, ICS #3208* Ph: 250-545-2491 (home) Longford, TAS 7301 Australia 180 Peregrine Circle Email: [email protected] Ph: +03-6397-6500 Broomfield CO 80020-1275 Email: [email protected] Ph: (303) 460-8127 Cell: (720) 560-4862 Email: [email protected] Southwest: Tribe Chief Craig Varga, ICS #12906 1365 S. Reed Rd. Chino Valley, AZ 86323-6598 Ph: (928) 899-4139 Cell: (928) 899-4139 2013-14 ICS Standing Committees & Chairpersons: Email: [email protected] Tribe Rep Scott Myers, ICS #16819* Historical – Chair: Bruce Thumann, SC Flagship – Chair: Cliff Wilewski, NC 1041 Jasmine Ct. Information Technology – Chair: Vista, CA 92081 Sally Williams, SE Ph: (760) 727-7444 (w) Dave Fitzgerald, NC Elections – Chair: Cell: (760) 519-8604 Technical Resources – Chair: Editorial Review – Chair: Email: [email protected] Zach Grant, NC Bob Cretney, SC Finance & Budget – Chair: Editorial Committee: Pat Donovan, MS Pat Donovan, MS * Member ICS Board of Directors Dave Fitzgerald, NC Bylaws, Standing & Special Rules – Chair: Zach Grant, NC Chair: Scott Myers, CA Bernie Mazurek, SE Don Nelson, WA Hank Spellman, NC Nominating – Chair: Dave Fitzgerald, NC Fleet Airworthiness – Chair: Nominating Committee: Dave Fitzgerald, NC Ken Mori, WC Annual Convention – Chair: Dennis Springer, NW Shirley Nelson, NW Bruce Thumann, SC

12 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 MAINTENANCE RESOURCE ADVISORS Comanche-trained Instructors The International Comanche Society (ICS) publishes this list in the spirit of member information. The opinions, statements and claims made by the Advisors are their own and not those of the International Comanche Society (ICS). ICS assumes no responsibility for any actions between its members and the listed Advisors. It is incumbent upon the member, when using Certified flight instructors who have this list of Advisors, to do due diligence in researching and selecting an Advisor. completed a Comanche training program. Pat Barry Karl Hipp The International Comanche Society, Inc. (ICS) publishes this Ph: (949) 362-1600 on Pacific Time Ph: (970) 963-3755 list in the spirit of member information. The opinions, state- E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] ments and claims made by the instructors are their own and not those of the International Comanche Society (ICS). The listed CFIs have undergone a Comanche-specific Training Dave Clark Lucky Louque Program. ICS assumes no responsibility for any actions Ph: (817) 860-4393 Ph: (903) 345-9198 between its members and the listed CFIs. It is incumbent upon Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] the member, when using this list of instructors, to do due diligence in researching and selecting a qualified instructor Zach Grant Cliff Wilewski for the type of training desired. Cell: (317) 201-4293 Ph: (815) 395-0500, Cell: (815) 979-7785 Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Bill Archer - AZ (Phoenix/Mesa) (Email preferred contact) Single/Twin, (480) 203-3043 [email protected] Dennis R. Carew – WI COMANCHE FLYER FOUNDATION, INC. Twin & Single, (920) 749-9558 [email protected] MAURICE TAYLOR VIDEO PROGRAMS Malcolm Dickinson - CT/NY Take advantage of Maurice’s expert knowledge, captured on these Single & Twin, (203) 698-2600 professionally produced videos. Great tools for mechanics, too. [email protected] Program 1: Preflight Walk-around Zach Grant - IN (Indianapolis) Single/Twin, (317) 201-4293 Program 2: Tech Tips: A Closer Look [email protected] Program 3: Comanche Landing Gear William Harris – VA Program 4: Single Comanche Flight Tips Single & Twin, (540) 731-4772 Program 5: Twin Comanche Flight Tips [email protected] (Programs 1-3 apply to both the single and twin models.) Craig Mussman - IL Single/Twin, (815) 450-3692 All five programs on one DVD. [email protected] DVD each $59.00 plus shipping (North America $8.00, elsewhere $14.00) Donny Nelson - WA VHS and PAL tapes are no longer available Single/Twin, (360) 305-0689 [email protected] BOOKS Myron Oakley - IL Into the Wind: The Story of Max Conrad by Sally Buegeleisen Twin only, (815) 985-7894 Enjoy this account of the life and feats of legendary pilot Max Conrad, [email protected] including his record setting flights in our own Comanche N110LF. pb, 264 pp. George Richmond - NE (Omaha) Single and Twin, (402) 350-1915 Price: $21.50 plus shipping (North America: $8.00; elsewhere: $15.00) [email protected] PA-30 & Multi-Engine Flying by Alice S. Fuchs. pb, 68 pp. Steve Smith - MT Price $9.00 plus shipping (North America: $5.00; elsewhere: $7.00) Single/Twin, (406) 425-0754 [email protected] These merchandise purchases and/or your donations can be Mike Stich - OH made through CFF on the ICS website with either a credit Single/Twin, (330) 283-1857 card or our newly availabe PayPal option. Please visit: [email protected] Todd Underwood - AZ (Phoenix/Prescott) www.comancheflyer.com Single/Twin, (623) 202-6910 [email protected] TO ORDER BY MAIL PLEASE FILL OUT Larry Whitbeck - IL Single only Cell: (217) 737-6074 Office: (217) 732-9704 [email protected] Mail to: CFF c/o Shirley Nelson, Kristin Winter - CA (Northern) 925 Ludwick Avenue, Blaine, WA 98230-5109 Single & Twin, (707) 477-4727 Telephone: 360-671-7388 [email protected] Steve Zaboji – VA [email protected] Single & Twin, (571) 228-3420 Enclose check or money order made payable to CFF. [email protected] ICS TOOL LOAN PROGRAM

Matt Kurke 8192 Sanctuary Drive, Unit 1 Naples, FL 34104 Ph: (239) 593-6944 [email protected]

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­13 ONLINE INTELLIGENCE www.comancheflyer.com

From the Comanche Website Maintenance Forum AFMS FOR S-TEC 60 am really learning a lot of things I Have you tried the Mfg website? I reached out to S-Tec and they never knew before I bought a plane. We’ve found a lot of things there for referred me to their dealers who so I I am working on all the paper- other systems. far want to charge a rather large sum of work on my plane and have discovered ______money for what I am pretty sure if it is like the 430W supplement, just a couple I do not have an AFMS (Airplane Flight Garmin, for instance, has all their dozen pages of photocopied material. Manual Supplement) for my S-Tec publications for new and old equipment Unfortunately, these supplements are 60. I discovered I had an AFMS for a online free for download. I’m not sure required to be in the aircraft, which G500. One problem, I own a 430W. about S-Tec, but I’d expect the same. also has me concerned as to what other Fortunately, I was able to get the AFMS Garmin also has PC-based simulators systems in my aircraft may require a from the avionics shop that installed you can download and play from the supplement. the 430 quickly and easily. comfort of your computer with cup of The supplements may place restric- The S-Tec was installed by a shop coffee in order to master the use. tions on what you can and cannot do that has long since disappeared. This ______with the installed equipment. Case in one may be a little harder to come by. Try this link: point is using an expired database in If the AFMS for the S-Tec is anything http://www.s-tec.com/Documentation/ your GPS for IFR operations. The FAA like the 430W, it is nothing more than Shared%20(POH)/Sys_60-_POH_ actually allows this only if it is permit- about 20 pages of photocopied material. (3rd_ed).pdf ted by the AFMS. Any chance that anyone has a copy he ______or she can make for me? Thanks, but unfortunately S-Tec I’ve seen cases where equipment I am new to this AFMS stuff. What only posts the POH, not the POH manufacturers do supply an AFMS that other systems might require an AFMS? supplements. The supplements are is inserted into Section 9 of the air- ______aircraft-type specific. craft’s AFM/POH; but more typically

14 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 I’ve seen separate booklets that are from those conversations. That said I find that might be helpful ... at least a the required supplements for the new might have something to learn here ... clue to what you should have (if any- ONLINE INTELLIGENCE equipment that must be carried aboard. as Mark Twain said, “It ain’t what you thing). Can other Comanche owners I keep all those in a pouch with my don’t know that gets you into trouble. with S-Tec autopilots chime in here? www.comancheflyer.com AFM. I think most of the separate book- It’s what you know for sure that just ______lets I am referring to would be found on ain’t so.” Thanks. I suspect it is model spe- manufacturers’ websites as previously P.S. If S-Tec does in fact claim you cific. I have the S-Tec 60, three axis pointed out. should have some AFMS papers with with VS control. I know it is aircraft- The other thing would be STC your Comanche POH and they want type specific though that is not to say paperwork which goes in the mainte- to sell those to you, I would make the same documentation can’t apply nance records, but in some cases has sure you have a good idea of what it is to multiple aircraft types. instructions or things the pilot must you are buying. There are many other There is actually useful information pay attention to in which case there Comanche owners with S-Tec autopi- in the supplements — at least I found are papers (or a copy) that must go in lots from the System 30 all the way up this true for the GPS supplement. or with the AFM. to the 55X. I’d check with some of them S-Tec wants $200 for the supple- Others may have contradictory to see if they have such paperwork in ment. This seems a bit excessive, knowledge or advice on this, but this their aircraft. Any such paperwork may especially if it is only 20 or so pages of is to the best of my knowledge. I’ve in fact be generic and cover all S-Tec photocopied material, which is what had conversations with the Washington units not just a specific model (just a FSDO that oversees my Part 135 char- thought). I don’t have an S-Tec in my my GPS 430W supplement is. ter certificate regarding documentation Comanche but our Charter Cirrus does Even if I have the wrong document and supplements we must carry aboard have an S-Tec 55X. Later today I’ll be in the plane I guess it is better than our charter aircraft, and what I’ve writ- at the hangar and I’ll look through the nothing. Maybe the FAA will give me ten above is based on what I gained Cirrus supplements to see what I can partial credit. The previous owner had (continued on next page)

Update Your Old Comanche Panel Make Room for a MFD

Update your panel to a standard “T” configuration. Add space for new electronics. All panels computer drawn and laser cut. ‘58-60 Centerstack Conversion $950.00 (Fully STC’d) ‘61-68 Single or Twin $825.00 (Fully STC’d) Recuts left side – $250 • Recuts right side – $100. (Prior Panels) Contact: John Van Bladeren at: Ron & John’s Comanche Service 2007 SE Ash Street • Portland, OR 97214 (503) 329-8512 (Day or Night) • Fax: (503) 234-0677 e-mail: [email protected]

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­15 the wrong AFMS for the GPS in my job. Being retired computer industry plane for many years. folks, we know the value of complete referred I’m still concerned if there are other and accurate documentation at install AFMS’s that I should have in the plane. time, so we did it. As the owner, I know I’m responsible anyway. ______P ______There are a number of pages in irparts Section 9 of the Cirrus AFM that deal Thanks. Yes, I realize I’m respon- A with the 55X. But note that these pages sible as the owner and have gone to Chosen for value and service are published from Cirrus, perhaps in great lengths to ensure everything is in order (you should see the AD New Surplus Parts collaboration with S-Tec. The only other thing on board are the Avidyne, and maintenance tracking system for all Pipers Garmin, and S-Tec booklets (the kinds I’ve developed). I spent quite a bit of time researching and reorganizing the PA-18 through Cheyenne of things you can download from their maintenance records as well as the in- respective websites). There’s nothing aircraft documentation. In this case I else; that’s how it came from the Cirrus 25-85% think I’m carrying the wrong thing on SAVE factory. I would guess the pages added board for the GNS-480 and I’ll correct to Section 9 count as the AFMS you off list price! that. First I want to verify with Garmin are referring to. and I may have another chat with my It’s interesting, for my PA-30 I have PMI at the Wash FSDO. many supplements. I would have said ______they are/were complete. Some are a few pages and some are entire booklets (like The STC that you refer to for the • Airframe Parts the User Guide on my Garmin 480) Garmin is not the AFM supplement. but I can’t say that I have groupings Garmin does not post the supplements. • Accessories, bellcranks of pages to be added to AFM Section 9 They are supposed to be supplied by • Bushings, cowling for everything. For the 480 I have the whoever installed the equipment. The • Cables, gears, spars user guide but no separate bunch of Cirrus example provided above is a pages like you’re describing. Perhaps good example. In this case the equip- • OHC Rotables I am missing something — I think I’ll ment was installed at the Cirrus factory. • Propellers call Garmin. I see this with the G1000 airplanes I fly, the supplement is part of the POH • and a whole lot more! ______and incorporated at the factory. It also Looking further ... when I first got reinforces the fact that the supplements the plane I went to all the websites of are type specific. Free online inventory Search! all the equipment manufacturers and The GPS supplement is where you www.preferredairparts.com downloaded everything they offered. actually can determine if you can use For my Garmin 480, Garmin posted a your GPS with an expired database. Preferred Airparts, LLC “GNS480 Fixed Wing STC ICA RevF. Div. of JILCO Industries Many erroneously believe that this is pdf” which is still out on their site even allowed by the FAA. It is not a blanket 800-433-0814 now. Just as you described, it’s about Toll Free, U.S. & Canada permission. The FAA allows it only if nine pages. I have this but I don’t recall Tel. 330-698-0280, FAX 330-698-3164 the GPS supplement allows it. printing it and putting it in the aircraft [email protected] with the AFM ... perhaps I need to do Supplements are typically found SALES HOURS that. in Section 9 of a POH. For our older 7:15am to 6:30pm EST. ______planes, they are usually stapled to the front or back cover of the POH. Whoever installed the equipment is We Buy Worldwide theoretically responsible for supplying If you have tip tanks installed even the documents. Our experience was these require an AFM/POH supplement. We are We buy inventories of new Cash surplus parts for nearly that the avionics shop did not do this, anything that flies. Also I am also trying to get a handle on Buyers! tired or damaged Cessna selected the incorrect options when we my ADs and Piper Service Bulletins. twins, Caravans, Citations, engines and propellers. did show them the paperwork, and even This is not an easy process, I am quickly Gene Hembree is our buyer. Please contact him at though certified at the highest level learning. Many Service Bulletins and 330-698-0280 ext.224 [email protected] by Garmin, did not do the complete (continued on page 18)

16 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 Nobody gets excited about their starter until it doesn’t work. Nothing grounds an airplane and your plans faster than a faulty starter. That’s why Hartzell Engine Technologies is committed to making significant improvements to starter technology and reliability. Our starter lineup offers the industry’s best duty-cycle performance and we’ve introduced unique improvements to specific models. Innovations such as high-torque motors with lower battery draw, built-in kick-back protection (E-Drive), minimal back-torque for starter adapter protection, integrated contactors (X-Drive), stronger lightweight housings, and more. So when it’s time for a new starter, make the switch to Hartzell. And make starter AOG’s a thing of the past.

SEVERE DUTY TEST NUMBER OF STARTS 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 + HARTZELL 30 STARTS

Competition fails after 10 starts E-DRIVE

0 2.5 5 7.5 10 12.5 15 M-DRIVE ELAPSED TIME IN MINUTES X-DRIVE

Undo your thinking. HartzellEngineTech.com | +1.334.386.5400

APRILHET0011 2015 Grounded Ad CF.indd 1 Comanche1/9/14 Flyer 11:03 • AM­17

Client: Hartzell Engine Technologies Ad Title: Grounded Ad Publication: Comanche Flyer Trim: 7”x4.875” • Bleed: None • Live: Not Provided Service Letters do not appear to be me to re-check what I do (and don’t available anymore. have) — exactly. I did just find an S-Tec 60 AFMS I recently converted from the PILOT’S OPERATING HANDBOOK for a C182. As I suspected, it is only original Factory AFM/POH (which is 17 pages long and photocopied just complete with all supplements — no, like my GPS AFMS. I have a copy of it I don’t have the tip tanks; they are AND FAA APPROVED Engine Baffles • if anyone is interested. It is too big to marked not installed but I do have that Landing Gear Wire upload to this site. If it just said “Piper supplement) to the ICS AFM I pur- AIRPLANE FLIGHT MANUAL Harness Kits Comanche” and “12-volt System” on chased thru Webco. “Formerly Published And Produced by the late Douglas L. Killough” • the cover sheet it would be perfect. Conduit and Harness I am not a member of the Yahoo ______Installation Service User’s Forum and, frankly, I don’t want Check out the GNS480 User Group to sign up with Yahoo just to do that on Yahoo. I think the AFM can be found but I’ll search around and see if I can Let’s Keep ’em there. Also try Google for it. find it elsewhere. Flying! ______Kristen Winter has a copy of ALL new and old Piper SBs. She shared them Scan for YouTube video of The two things you will need in your with me — it’s a BIG file. If you send an landing gear transmission aircraft is the AFM supplement and email to [email protected], I most avionics supplements will then will send you an invite to a drop box say you need the operating manual for folder where you can download them. the device as well in the aircraft. I also have copies of ALL ADs but I I plan on installing a bookcase in have a twin; I think you want single. the back of my plane! It’s easy to download from the FAA site www.comanchegear.com I compressed the AFMS for a Cessna and the ICS also maintains lists on the 877-593-6944 Toll-Free with an S-TEC 60 and have uploaded main ICS site. 239-404-7524 Cell for anyone interested in seeing a com- ______plete AFMS. Hopefully, someone will These postings are provided for recognize this and be able to provide informational purposes only. The me a copy for my Comanche. I suspect views expressed in these postings rep- it will be identical to this other than resent the opinions of individual the picture of the yoke and switches. Comanche owners and have not been ______vetted by the ICS technical Thanks for these insights. I do have committee. the User Guide and the Pilot Quick As a responsible pilot and aircraft Reference guide for my Garmin 480. owner, you should always seek advice I can’t say that I have a supplement from an experienced, trusted source, similar to what was posted for the such as your A&P or CFF-trained CFI, C-182/S-TEC 60-2. Yes, I am very before applying any of the techniques familiar with Section 9 being the or recommendations presented in supplements section in the standard these postings. chapter structure of an AFM and, yes, I know (and referenced the fact) that The postings are printed as they Cirrus (for example) provided the appeared. Due to space consider- S-TEC supplement as factory provided ations, sometimes only selected posts in the example I posted. have been published. I do have some of the Supplements you reference for much of the non- OEM equipment I have installed but I don’t recall seeing anything but the WARREN GREGOIRE & ASSOCIATES LLC Pilots User Guide in the case of the 1933 Davis Street, Suite 221 480. Sounds like I need to find this. I’m San Leandro, CA 94577 Voice 510-282-9300, Fax 510-633-9355 probably going to be at the hangar this Website www.warrengregoire.com afternoon and this thread has prompted

18 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 PILOT’S OPERATING HANDBOOK AND FAA APPROVED AIRPLANE FLIGHT MANUAL “Formerly Published And Produced by the late Douglas L. Killough”

Piper Aircraft ceased production of the Comanche and Twin Comanche in 1972, several years before the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) established specifications for the contemporary Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH). As a result, the Owner’s Handbook published by Piper is incomplete by modern standards. Now available EXCLUSIVELY from the INTERNATIONAL COMANCHE SOCIETY, INC., through it’s licensed agents, is the upgraded Pilot’s Operating Handbook and FAA approved GAMA format Airplane Flight Manual.

Discounted to current ICS members at $75.00 each, plus shipping (must ask for ICS member discount and provide ICS membership number when placing order). Available only through Webco Aircraft at 316-283-7929 or www.webcoaircraft.com. Available Bound or Unbound/Un-punched.

There are SIXTEEN different GAMA format manuals available for the Piper Single and Twin Comanche. Please order your manual by “Manual Number 1-16” from the chart below.

TO ORDER CALL WEBCO AIRCRAFT AT 316-283-7929 OR WWW.WEBCOAIRCRAFT.COM. Specify “Bound” or “Unbound/Un-punched.” Order Manual Gross Year(s) Flight Manual SN SN Model Qty Number Weight Mfg Report Number Begin End Singles: 01.) 180 2550 1957-64 1047 24-1 3687 02.) 250 2800 1958-60 997 103 2298 03.) 250 2900 1961 1127 2299 2843 04.) 250 2900 1962-64 1179 2844 3687 05.) 250 2900 1962-64 1220 (FI) 2844 3687 06.) 260 2900 1965 1334 4000 4299 07.) 260 2900 1965 1333 (Carb) 4000 4299 08.) 260B 3100 1966-68 1359 4300 4803 Not Avail 09.) 260B 3100 1966-68 1358 (Carb) 4300 4803 10.) 260C 3200 1969-72 1545 4804 5028 11.) 260T 3200 1970-72 1640 (Turbo) 4901 5028 12.) 400 3600 1964-65 1295 26-3 148 Twins: 13.) PA30 3600 1963-68 1269 30-2 1744 1969 1515 1745 2000 14.) PA30T 3725 1964-68 1269 (Turbo) 143 1744 1969 1515 (Turbo) 1745 2000 15.) PA39 3600 1970-72 1605 39-1 155 16.) PA39T 3725 1970-72 1605 (Turbo) 1 155

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­19 FEATURE

Orphaned Comanche

by Steve Zaboji

have often thought that general our great nation, there are good people A Comanche change of ownership aviation is one of America’s last toiling away at perfecting their birds. is a profound demarcation in one’s bastions of civility. I frequently emotions, as exemplified by a recent As a CFF flight instructor I have reflect on the honesty, generos- letter received by the Flyer’s editorial I often facilitated flight training asso- ity and talent found among pilots and staff. Susan Henthorn, lives in a small ciated with a transfer of Comanche aircraft owners. Behind practically town outside of Atlanta, and when she every hangar door in our great coun- ownership. It is apparent that the was ten years old, a Comanche 180 try there is an airplane which could Comanche is built well, and with (N5117P) came into the life of her represent American ingenuity, talent conscientious maintenance and an family. The use of it defined her pilot and personal commitment to the love occasional upgrade, the Comanche will Dad, along with his integrity, generosity of flight. On most weekends throughout continue to span generations. and good works. Furthermore, having it (continued on page 22) 20 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 FREE CATALOG

Proud Sponsor of

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­21 in the family helped to create lifelong We all took a trip to go see this and to fly his plane that he loved so memories for each member. plane, and it was a mess. We took the much. And then in his spare time he plane apart and moved it to a garage Susan recently lost her Dad, a sad raised a total of one million dollars and worked on it all that summer. occasion that prompted her to reach out for the Yaarab Temple. When the plane was finished, we to her Dad’s extended Comanche family I just hope with its history and moved it to the airport and put it and to share her experience. Here, her the love my Daddy had for this plane back together. We took the plane for story relates the profound impact of that the next person to own it will a ride. It felt so good knowing that we N5117P on the life of her family: love it and take care of it just as had worked on that plane and that I would like to tell you about my it was flying so strong and smooth. much. Daddy. He was born in Anderson, I used to fly with my Daddy when I lost my Daddy on April 30th, South Carolina on February 12, he was taking his flying lessons and 2013, and we all miss him very 1931 and was given the name Rufus learned, myself, at such a young age much. If I had to guess what he is E. McElreath. Everyone called him how to help handle the plane if Daddy doing right now, I’d say he is flying “Mac.” Daddy and Mom got married on ever needed any help. his plane. August 6, 1952 and had two children: Daddy flew over one thousand One Comanche and one life me (Susan) in November 1956 and missions in this plane, flying making a profound difference. Rufus E. my brother Randy in January 1955. children to hospitals all over the McElreath and his beloved Comanche One day in 1966 my Dad came country. As I am a registered nurse, enjoyed a productive and life altering I flew with him on many of the mis- home and announced that he was 47-year journey. Rufus passed on to a sions to help keep the children as buying an airplane, a Comanche higher command in the sky, and now comfortable as possible. So you see, 180. My Mom said, “WHAT? A his beloved N5117P stands by, awaiting this airplane not only has character, plane?” Dad replied, “Yes. A plane. its next generation’s Comanche pilot. And I’m going to join the Flying Fezz, but it also has served a purpose Keep The Blue Side Up! the Shriner’s Flying Unit. I will be since being built in 1959. flying children who can’t be treated Daddy also worked as an Atlanta Steve is an ATP, CFII, MEI and a CFF/ here in Georgia to hospitals through- City Detective for over 30 years but CPPP instructor. He can be contacted via out the country.” still found time to help those children email at: [email protected]

22 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 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

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 VSI 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

WE OVERHAUL P/N 21286-000 GEAR MOTOR AND OTHER GEAR AND FLAP MOTORS FOR STC Oil Temperature Coupler Kit, ALH-I-005 Approved for Piper Models PA-23 PA-24 PA-30-39 OTHER AIRCRAFT

1084 East Water Street, Hangar #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]

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­23 CONVENTION NEWS 2015 Convention / YURKAIMMORTAL Inc. © Can Photo Stock by LaVerne Stroh

There are three ways to register: 1. Cut out and send in the registration form found in this edition of the Flyer. 2. Fill out, print, and send in the elec- tronic version of the registration form found under the “2015 ICS Convention” section of the ICS website. 3. Register online using the link also located under the “2015 ICS Convention” section of the ICS GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY CHAMBER OKLAHOMA the GREATER of courtesy Photo website. If you have any problems or ques- tions about registration, please contact Linda Baker at (940) 683-4540 or via email: [email protected]. Remember, registration covers all meals, snacks, gratuities, and transpor- tation. The only exception is the Tribe Night meal on Thursday, June 18 — you will be eating with your respective tribe Skyline view taken from Bricktown at a location determined by your Tribe Chief. There will be a sign-up sheet in ince it is April, we would be remiss if we didn’t remind you about getting the hospitality room so the Tribe Chiefs your registration in prior to April 15, if you haven’t already. After April 15, can get a good idea how many will be Sthere will be a late registration fee — to avoid it, get your registration in now. attending to make reservations.

24 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 As another reminder, if you haven’t made your hotel reservations yet, please do it right away. You can always cancel if something comes up and you can’t make it, but it may be difficult to add more rooms to the block as it gets closer to convention time. Since the Marriott is one of the primary hotels downtown rooms fill up fast, especially if there are other events occurring in the downtown/Bricktown area. Please don’t wait to make reservations. If you have problems with the hotel reserva- tions, please contact LaVerne or Chuck Stroh at (405) 373-2627 or via email: (continued on page 27) THOMAS & DIANNE JONES/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/PUBLIC DOMAIN COMMONS/PUBLIC JONES/WIKIMEDIA DIANNE & the THOMAS of courtesy Photo © Can Stock Photo Inc. / YURKAIMMORTAL Inc. © Can Photo Stock TRAVELOK.COM offers acres of discovery and enjoy- ment including caves, boating, trout fishing (in season), hunt- ing, trails for hikers and horses, sandstone cliffs for climbing and rappelling. Photo courtesy of of courtesy Photo is the entrance to 54 miles of winding road through the Ouachita Mountains which are known for spectacu- lar spring and fall foliage with hiking and backpacking trails. The red mesas of the Gloss Mountains are covered in crystals that sparkle in the sunlight which makes for an excellent spot to have a picnic and do some hiking. OKIEFROMOKLA /WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/ PUBLIC DOMAIN PUBLIC COMMONS/ /WIKIMEDIA OKIEFROMOKLA Photo courtesy of of courtesy Photo

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­25 26 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 [email protected]. To help identify we’d like to give you a little more infor- it as relating to the convention, please mation about the seminars. put “ICS Convention” in the subject • Thursday, June 18 — we are plan- line of the email question. ning two seminars in the morning You can also make reservations by and immediately after lunch we calling the Marriott toll-free number will head out for one of the tours at 800-217-9905, or contact the or whatever else you would like to Courtyard by Marriott Downtown direct do. The tours include the FAA train- at (405) 232-2290. Tell them you are ing facility and the Outlet Mall. making reservations for ICS or the • Friday, June 19 — we will have three International Comanche Society. They seminars: two in the morning and should have it listed both ways, but you one in the afternoon. They will end know how that goes. If you would rather around 2:00pm to allow time for make your reservations online, there visiting with the speakers and exhib- is now a link on the ICS website under itors. Or if you want some extra the “2015 ICS Convention” section. It time to tour the Oklahoma History is the easiest way to get to the online Museum before dinner there, you registration site. can take the early bus. In the March issue, we provided a • Saturday, June 20 — There will be brief convention agenda. In this edition, a seminar at the airport. (continued on next page)

Flat Rate Annuals - Structural Repairs - Modifications Expert Glass Replacement - Engine Overhauls

• Offering Pre-purchase Evaluations in our shop or at aircraft location • • Contact us for AD Note 2012-17-06 Stabilator Horn Assembly Inspection • • STC’D Australian Horn Installation • Pick Up & Delivery Service Available • Our experienced Licensed Staff takes pride in assuring customer safety and customer satisfaction, with special attention to detail. In service since 1983 CLIFTON AERO

Clifton Airport P.O. Box 249 Clifton, TX 76634 Tim Talley ICS #8375 30 minute flight SW of Dallas/Ft. Worth 254-675-3771 www.cliftonaero.com • e-mail: [email protected]

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­27 Oklahoma Trivia continued:

• Eighty percent of the world’s western art is found in Oklahoma.

• Phillip H. Sheridan, George A. Custer and William T. Sherman were the founders of the USA’s main artillery fort at Fort Sill.

• Boise City, Oklahoma was the only city in the United States to be bombed during World War II. On Monday night, July 5, 1943, at approxi- mately 12:30 a.m., a B-17 Bomber based at Dalhart Army Air Base (50 miles to the south of Boise City) dropped six practice bombs on the sleeping town.

• Okmulgee owns the world record for largest pecan pie, pecan cookie, pecan brownie, and biggest ice cream and cookie party. Each June, Okmulgee rolls out the welcome mat to thou- sands of its closest friends as the annual Pecan Festival comes to town.

• Originally Indian Territory, the state of Oklahoma was opened to settlers in a “Land Rush” in 1889. On a given date, prospective settlers would be allowed into the territory to claim plots of land by grabbing the stakes mark- ing each plot. A few of these settlers entered to claim land before the official start of the land Located just two and a half hours from Oklahoma City, the run; these cheaters were called “Sooners”. Quartz Mountain Resort is the perfect location for hiking, boating on the lake, playing golf, exploring the Arts Institute, • Oklahoma was the setting for the movie or just relaxing at the lodge. “Twister”, “Pearl”, and several other movies.

Here are some of the planned seminars: • MT Propeller USA, Inc. is present- ing information on their new three blade composite propeller STC for LARRY D. MOORE/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/ PUBLIC DOMAIN PUBLIC COMMONS/ MOORE/WIKIMEDIA D. LARRY the PA-24 250/260 and the soon to be approved three blade compos- ite propeller STC for the PA-30/39. They have seen great performance Photo courtesy of of courtesy Photo increases in testing on all of the airframes, and I’m sure you’ll be interested in hearing about it. Weatherford, OK will be available • Information on getting your medi- • Garmin will be discussing ADSB to answer questions about ADSB cal certificate after Myocardial as well as their ADSB product line installation. Infarction (commonly known as a and how it works, etc. In conjunc- • Concorde Battery will talk about the heart attack). tion with that, Dennis Falesco importance of battery maintenance Since we are still confirming details from Omega Aircraft Services in and testing. on the other two seminars, we will

28 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 provide information about them next If you want to pamper yourself by month. We are hoping to offer a session having your nails done, getting a facial or on reducing aircraft maintenance costs. total spa treatment, enjoying a massage, The exhibitors will be set up all day or indulging in any of the other services Friday, and you can come and go as you they provide, you can visit The Spa at 10 North. It is located about a block from please (they will probably be closing the Marriott hotel. If you want to make

down between 4:00 and 4:30 so every- BRICKTOWN IN PALETTE PINOT’S reservations prior to the convention, one can get ready for the evening meal you can call them at (405) 605-1772. at the Oklahoma History Museum). We are also finalizing all of the exhibi- If there is enough interest, we can set up a group event at Pinot’s tors and will provide more information of courtesy Photo about them next month. We know that Palette on Friday after lunch. While MT Propeller and Concorde Battery will definitely be there, and we’re hoping to have Garmin show off some of their products and be available to talk about the ADBS equipment. We will have a few non aviation- related exhibitors that may be of interest (look for additional informa- tion next month). One in particular should appeal to women especially if you like jewelry. You will also have a chance to buy homemade soaps along with different kinds of oils and scents. One of our speakers will be Captain Richard Bullock, a Check Airman/ Instructor and Captain at Central Air The Key to Protecting Both Southwest. He will provide information on the Constellation (a propeller- Comanche Owners and Renters driven, four-engine airliner built by Lockheed Corporation between 1943 AOPA Insurance Services offers both Aircraft Insurance and and 1958, and flown by airlines as well Renter’s Insurance for Comanches so that you’ll be protected when you fly. as the U.S. military) and his experi-

ence as a TWA Constellation pilot. The With the buying power of AOPA behind us, we provide you with: Constellation airplane is often referred • Excellent coverage to as the “Connie” and its history is an • Competitive rates interesting part of aviation history. It • The expertise you deserve • The dependability of AOPA, a name you can trust. started when Howard Hughes and Jack Plus revenue from AOPA Insurance Services goes back to AOPA LARRY D. MOORE/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/ PUBLIC DOMAIN PUBLIC COMMONS/ MOORE/WIKIMEDIA D. LARRY Frye, both co-owners of TWA, joined to fight for important GA issues like keeping airports open and together to create the fastest, most encouraging the growth of our aviation community. powerful aircraft. It was a top-secret project that changed the aviation

Photo courtesy of of courtesy Photo world, especially the passenger flight. Go Online or Call Today! It was the presidential aircraft for 1-888-255-AOPA[2672] or aopainsurance.org/fly President Eisenhower. Orville Wright even had a chance to handle the con- We’re the ONLY ones with AOPA in our name...and phone number. trols on one of the flights. Now that you have read the “teaser,” we know you will want to come to hear all about the “Connie” and Captain Bullock’s experiences flying it.

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­29 More Will Roger Quotes: A U.S. Navy Lockheed R7V-2 Super Constellation in flight. As a commer- • The only difference between death and taxes is that death doesn’t get cial aircraft, the constellation was worse every time Congress meets. considered a plane ahead of its time. • Too many people spend money they haven’t earned to buy things they don’t want to impress people they don’t like. • If you want to be successful, it’s just this simple. Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And believe in what you are doing. U.S. NAVY NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NAVAL AVIATION/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/PUBLIC DOMAIN COMMONS/PUBLIC AVIATION/WIKIMEDIA NAVAL OF MUSEUM NATIONAL NAVY U.S. Photo courtesy of of courtesy Photo

there, you can sip on wine as you With approximately 400 towns and While gambling isn’t legal in paint a picture (previous painting 380 airports, you can fly to almost Oklahoma, other than lottery and experience is not required). A local any destination in your Comanche. scratch tickets, it is legal on Native artist will lead you through step-by- Oklahoma has one of the nation’s most American land; however, since step instructions of painting a picture diverse terrains located in one State. Oklahoma is home to many Native that, hopefully, will look similar to There are 34 state parks in Oklahoma. American tribes and gambling is legal the one he or she has on display. You The state is divided into six regions, on their land, you will find many casi- may discover a new found talent! each having something distinct. The nos throughout the state. state hosts 39 Native American tribe The cost would be $35 per person. The central region in Oklahoma is headquarters. You will find the most If you are interested, please contact also called Frontier Country and it’s LaVerne Stroh at [email protected] drivable miles on Route 66. Along the route you will find some of the best pre- where Oklahoma City is located. In and refer to the Painting outing or served roadside attractions from the era this region you will find wooded hills something similar in the subject line. when Route 66 was the “route to take.” gradually transitioning into rolling You can also call (405) 373-2627, if Here are some specific ones to look out short-grass prairie. It is in the center of you prefer not to use email. If we for: a vintage motorcycle museum in the state and was once part of the wild have enough interest (we need a Miami, the Rock Café in Stroud, which rowdy Great American Frontier but has minimum of 15 people), we will get was built with rocks from the Route now grown into a thriving area (in the it set up. 66 road excavation, Pops Restaurant last edition of the Flyer, we covered the If you are coming for the conven- in Arcadia, the National Route 66 many things to see and do). You will tion and would like to see more of the Museum in Elk City, and the Oklahoma also find Anadarko in this area. It is state, there are so many things to do. Route 66 Museum in Clinton. the home of the only authentic Indian

30 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 City in the United States and is located near the Washita River valley. The Northwest Region, also known as Red Carpet Country, is a land of con- trasts from majestic vistas to expansive high plains. Once known as No Man’s Land, it has grown into a paradise for outdoor lovers. The friendly people will “roll out the red carpet” for visitors to make unforgettable memories, thus the name Red Carpet Country. Here you TUROVER/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/PUBLIC DOMAIN COMMONS/PUBLIC TUROVER/WIKIMEDIA will find things like the where you can take a spin on a dune buggy or just play in the mountains of sand. At the Great Salt Photo courtesy of of courtesy Photo Plains State Park, you can observe wild birds or dig for salt crystals. It is simi- lar to the Great Salt Lake, only much The Blue Whale, located in Catoosa, Oklahoma, is one of the most recognizable smaller in size. You can climb the hill landmarks on the historic Route 66. of the Gloss Mountains, also known as U.S. NAVY NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NAVAL AVIATION/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/PUBLIC DOMAIN COMMONS/PUBLIC AVIATION/WIKIMEDIA NAVAL OF MUSEUM NATIONAL NAVY U.S. Will Rogers Memorial Museum in the Phillips Petroleum Company. You the Glass Mountains. They are called Claremore. The museum depicts the will find bison, elk, longhorn cattle and that due to the high selenite content life and death of “Oklahoma’s favor- other exotic wildlife here, along with that makes the mountains appear to ite son.” The Woolaroc Museum and a museum full of interesting artifacts

Photo courtesy of of courtesy Photo have a shiny glass exterior. You will also Wildlife preserve near Bartlesville was and western art. find the Alabaster Caverns State Park the ranch owned by Frank Phillips of (continued on page 33) here. The cavern is formed of alabaster, which is a rare form of gypsum. It is the largest natural gypsum cave in the world. There is a family-owned gypsum For over 37 years, the Industry Choice! plant in the area that supplies large amounts of gypsum used nationwide. The Northeast Region is also called THE ™ Green Country, with good reason. This MAINTENANCE is the part of the state that is rich in RECORD-KEEPING SYSTEM trees, lakes, and rivers. You will find adlog rolling green hills and beautiful rock hills. Tulsa is located in this region FOR VIRTUALLY ALL GENERAL AVIATION FIXED & ROTARY and is a great city to visit. Along with WING AIRCRAFT plus EXPERIMENTAL and HOMEBUILTS the arts and entertainment venues and world-class museums, just out- 14/15 color coded sections, simplify, organize and centralize all data. side of Tulsa you will find a wonderful Provides lightning-fast retrieval of all maintenance ADs, service aquarium. There are 16 major lakes in bulletins and inspection requirements for your aircraft. Includes this area, all with wonderful places to AD search, text of applicable ADs, and 1 year AD revision service. stay and play. You will also find numer- Keeps you on top of all required repetitive activity- annuals, 100 ous fairs and festivals year-round. The hour inspections, transponder/altimeter checks, VOR checks, etc. Twin Bridges State Park is located in ORGANIZED FOR LOGICAL, STRAIGHTFORWARD UPKEEP. this section of the state. It is a 63-acre Because adlog saves your maintenance facility valuable time, you park with great fishing, boating, and save valuable money. E-Mail: [email protected] campsites from modern to rustic. It is a very peaceful area and a great 1-800-235-6444 FAX: 1-631-765-9359 place to visit. Since the Twin Bridges area is in the Wyandotte Nation, you AEROTECH PUBLICATIONS, INC. P.O. Box 1359, Southold, NY will also find a casino nearby if that www.adlog.com interests you. You will also find the

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­31 Tips Manual Creech Manual Ball Cap Landing Visor Gear DVD

LIMITED SUPPLY

Knit Polo (light blue, mens with pocket, ladies no pocket, 65% poly, 35% cotton) Coffee Mugs

Polo Shirts (with pocket) Lapel Pins Decal, Patch

3 Button Placket Shirt Stone Washed Denim Shirt Mens Ultramarine Knit Polo Shirt 32 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 Code Item Price Qty Total Choctaw Country is the name for the Southeast region. ICS11 Tips Manual $65.00 This area is known for its rivers, streams and lakes, moun- Easy to use, fold flat spiral bound, 365 pages. Updated version due soon. tains, and bayous. It is a great spot for a getaway. There are ICS23 Care and Maintenance of the Piper 12 state parks with a million acres for wildlife in this area Comanche Single (Creech Manual) $25.00 alone. You will find great hunting and fishing. In the fall you Donated by Maintenance Director and life-long member, the late Bill Creech. Tips on care and maintenance of your REVISED will find some of the most spectacular foliage tours in the Single Comanche. 2013 edition revised by Cliff Wilewski , and it is just as beautiful with ICS35 Landing Gear DVD $25.00 Watch complete gear removal from the airplane and the lush green of spring and summer. You will find Robbers 1000 hour gear AD performed and hosted by Hans Cave State Park in this area as well. Robbers Cave got it’s Neubert and George Mahurin. 2 hours. notoriety as being the cave used by many outlaws. With the ICS09 Mens White Polo Shirt with pocket $35.00 Circle selection: Single S M L XL XXL surrounding woods it was a difficult place to be found if they Twin S M L XL XXL Both S M L XL XXL hid there. You will find majestic scenery and views on the ICS14 Ladies Light Blue Knit Polo Shirt $35.00 Talimena National Scenic Byway. Circle selection: S M L XL XXL Circle selection: Twin Both Single In South Central Oklahoma, Chickasaw Country, you ICS24 Mens Light Blue Knit Polo Shirt with pocket $35.00 will find many areas of flowing water and water recreation. Circle selection: Twin: S M L XL Single: S XL LIMITED SUPPLY You can relax in lakeside cabins at or Lake ICS27 Mens Ultramarine Polo Shirt with Pocket $35.00 Texoma state parks, visit Turner Falls and take a dip in the Circle selection: Single: S M L XL XXL pool below the water fall, enjoy Arbuckle Lake, and visit the ICS28 Stone Washed Denim Shirt $35.00 Circle selection: S M L XL XXL old castle that was once home to a prominent Oklahoman. Circle selection: Single Twin Circle selection: Long Sleeve Short Sleeve Turner Falls Park is the oldest in Oklahoma. Many springs ICS36 Men’s (New Style) Light Blue Polo Shirt $38.00 from the Arbuckle Mountains form Honey Creek which Easy Care 60/40 cotton/poly blend, stain release, wrinkle cascades down seventy feet into a natural swimming pool. resistant, uv protection, curl free collar, 6.7 ounce, 3 button placket, bone horn buttons, straight bottom, rib knit collar You will also find the WinStar World Casino and Resort/Spa & cuffs, reinforced side vents, taped neck & shoulders. in this area. It is known as a destination to relax and enjoy ICS32 Ball Cap $14.00 Circle selection: Tan Blue yourself. There are numerous museums in the area. Lake Circle selection: Twin Single Texoma has numerous camping and recreational areas. It ICS34 Visor $14.00 Ultramarine (blue) Sun Visor with ICS logo. alone provides 93,000 acres of lake. Hook and loop type closure. 100% cotton. Southwest Oklahoma, also known as Great Plains Country, ICS26 Coffee Mug $7.50 Circle selection: Single Twin is known for its golden short grass prairie and granite moun- ICS10 Lapel Pin $5.00 tains. At Quartz Mountain State Park, you can fish, relax Circle selection: Single Twin Logo and enjoy the scenery, and visit the granite mountain area. ICS05 Decals (price for 2) $5.00 There are many museums and historic sites in this part of ICS06 Cloth Patch $6.00 the county. You can even walk on the old Chisholm Trail.

SUB TOTAL Just outside of Lawton and the Fort Sill Army base, you will Item USA Canada Foreign Michigan residents find the Wichita Mountain Wildlife area which is 60,000 acres Creech or Tips Manual $4.00 $16.00 $31.00 please add 6% sales tax devoted to wildlife preservation. There are many species of Decal or Patch $1.00 $1.25 $1.25 Handling $6.00 Shipping plant and animal life with the most popular being the buffalo Any Other Item $5.50 $15.00 $26.00 TOTAL and prairie dogs. Theodore Roosevelt set this area aside to help preserve the buffalo after the big slaughters that almost Ship Order To: made them extinct. These are just a few of the attractions in each area. If you Name: go to travelok.com you can find many more recreation sites, ICS #: attractions, etc. to keep you busy if you want to extend your time in Oklahoma before or after the convention. Street Address: Stay tuned — next month’s issue will provide informa-

City: State: Zip: tion on Sundance Airport, more updates on seminars and MC exhibitors, and other items of interest. Visa Payment: Card # Exp. Date:

Order by mail, fax, phone or web: International Comanche Society US: (888) 300-0082 P.O. Box 1810 Other: (231) 946-3712 Traverse City, MI 49685-1810 Fax: (231) 946-6180 http://www.comancheflyer.com/buy-merchandise.php APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­33 34 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 CUSTOM ENGINE OVERHAULS PA-24-180/250/260/400, PA-30 NEAR CHICAGO Complete Kits PA-24-180/250/260/400 PA-30, PA-39 FAA/STC, PMA Approved $859 Fixed Strap Kit $1059 Inertial Reel Kit Rear lap belts available.

* Slide Under Fit * Rugged Construction * #6000 Capacity Ram * Range 24" – 41" “A TOP RATED SHOP” – Aviation Consumer, July 2013 * Locking Safety Collar Flat Rate Prop Strike Inspections and Repairs * Three Leg Design Dynamic Propeller Balancing While You Wait MODEL 324 $249.00 EA. Tail Stand / Weight Available

Online -alphaaviation.com FAA Repair Station YYBR664L / EASA.145.6472 ­­800-397-8181 815-544-2300 www.poplargroveairmotive.com e-mail: [email protected] 11619 Rt. 76, Poplar Grove, IL 61065 1-800-653-5112 Fax 1-952-856-5158

Celebrating 40 years

Webco Aircraft is thankful for the Offering support the ICS and Comanche More than UV, owners have shown us over the years. Solar Control! We look forward to 2015 offering the same great quality parts, service and helpful information we have become known for. Best wishes for you and yours in 2015, Bob Weber and your Comanche family at Webco Aircraft ICS MEMBERS:

MENTION THIS AD GET A 10% DISCOUNT OFF COMANCHE PARTS

WEBCO AIRCRAFT LLC 888-826-2759888-826-2759 1134 North Oliver Road, Hangar G Newton, Kansas 67114 T: 810-235-1402 316-283-7929 • www.webcoaircraft.com F: 810-235-5260 e: [email protected]

[email protected] TM 915 Kearsley Park Blvd. - Flint, MI 48503

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­35 TRAINING EVENTS FROM THE TRIBE CHIEFS April 17-19 CPTP Comanche Clinic Hinesville, Georgia DATE TRIBE EVENT/LOCATION INFO SOURCE/HOST Time to knock off that winter rust! Come enjoy spring in Georgia at a April 11 (12*) NE Lunch Fly-in Ron and Lynn Ward Comanche Pilot Training Program Easton-Newnam [email protected] (CPTP) clinic in Hinesville, GA, April Field Airport – Easton, MD Register at: http://www.quietcornerbands.org/ Forms/ICS-NE Flyin RegForm.htm 17-19, 2015. Conveniently timed so you can enjoy Sun ‘n Fun on the way home. April 17-19 CPTP Comanche Clinic Express Registration: Dennis Carew at Midcoast Aviation (KLHW) (920) 749-9558 The clinic seminar will begin in the Hinesville, GA Online Registration: www.comanchetraining.com conference room at Midcoast Aviation April 21-26 SUN 'n FUN International in the Hinesville, GA (Ft. Stewart Fly-In & Expo KLHW) airport on Friday April 17 at Lakeland Linder Regional 8:00am, and run to approximately Airport – Lakeland, FL 5:00pm. A Comanche will be up on May 16 (17*) NE Lunch Fly-in Ron and Lynn Ward jacks Saturday morning for a hands-on Joseph Y Resnick Airport [email protected] systems lab. Dual flight instruction will Ellenville, NY Register at: http://www.quietcornerbands.org/ be on Saturday and Sunday. Ground Forms/ICS-NE Flyin RegForm.htm transportation will be provided between May 21-25 EU Great Massingham Fly-in Barrie Taylor LHW airport and the hotel. Optional Norfolk, United Kingdom [email protected] rental cars are available (see below): June 6 NE AOPA Fly-In/Open House Savannah Car Rental (912-370- Restaurant on site Frederick Municipal Airport 1169): Ask for Shandale Mills — tell Frederick, MD her Charlie Martin sent you from Midcoast and you'll get a special rate June 13 (14*) NE Lunch Fly-in Pete Morse Parlin Field Airport [email protected] of $25.00 plus taxes per day for a mid- Newport, NH Register at: http://www.quietcornerbands.org/ size car. Cars will be delivered to LHW Forms/ICS-NE Flyin RegForm.htm and may be returned there. June 17-21 ICS ICS Convention South Central Tribe Hotel: Holiday Inn Express (912- Courtyard by Marriott 877-5611) — ask for the special Oklahoma Downtown Comanche Group rate of $70.00 plus Oklahoma City, OK tax per night. Rate includes a hot break- Sundance Airport – fast buffet. Yukon, OK There are special registration rates July 15 EU St. John's Fly-in David and Jen Buttle Newfoundland, Canada Contact David at: for this CPTP clinic: [email protected] • Full Course includes dual flight July 20-26 ICS EAA AirVenture Oshkosh instruction in your aircraft. The Wittman Regional Airport regular registration fee is $850.00, Oshkosh, WI which has been discounted for this Sept 3-7 EU Greenwich Fly-in Lynn Selby and Graham Balls clinic to $650.00 London, England [email protected] • Ground School without dual flight Oct 9-11 CPPP Training Clinic Bob Cretney instruction has a regular fee of Lancaster, TX (214) 725-6584 (cell) $425.00 — the discounted fee for [email protected] this clinic is $375.00 The FBO is Midcoast Aviation, Inc. located at LHW, Hinesville, GA and Ft. Stewart, GA airport shared military base (912-877-4359). For additional

* The following Sunday is the raindate. airport information, see AirNav.com, Foreflight, or the AFD.

36 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 REGIONALTRIBE STATE ORGANIZATION TRIBE ORGANIZATION

NU

NT

YT

Western Canada Tribe

BC

AB MB

NL SK

QC ON

Eastern Canada Tribe

PE

NB

AK NS WA ME VT MT ND NH OR MN NY MA Northwest Tribe WI ID SD MI Northeast Tribe RI WY CT PA Mid States Tribe NJ IA DE NE MD North Central TribeOH WV DC IN VA NV IL CO KY UT KS MO CA NC Southwest Tribe TN HI SC Southeast Tribe AZ OK NM AR MS AL GA

South Central Tribe LA Australia Tribe AU FL European Tribe EU TX South Africa Tribe SA Eastern Canada Tribe EC Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland Western Canada Tribe WC British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon, Northwest Territories

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­37 will address us at the Saturday Night dinner. Additional details will follow in future issues. Contact Bob Cretney at: [email protected] or (214) 725-6584.

MID-STATES TRIBE Saturday Lunch Fly-Ins Saturday Lunch Fly-Ins will be posted in our new Comanche Winds newsletter which will come out every other month.

SOUTH CENTRAL TRIBE Weekend or Saturday Lunch Fly-Ins One of the most enjoyable aspects of owning and flying your Comanche is the ability to travel to Comanche func- tions and experience the camaraderie and knowledge of other owners. Some events are purely social, others include seminars (mostly technical and/ or knowledge-based), and the remain- ing are a combination of both with attractions for the entire family. If it is difficult for you to attend a full weekend Fly-In, you may find a Saturday lunch gathering with that same Comanche camaraderie of sharing flying stories, hangar talk, and lunch more to your liking. Make plans to attend as many of these events as you can. Whether your own Tribe or any of the other Tribes are hosting it, you are welcome to attend. The friendships you will make at these

Please visit the www.comanche by Bob Cretney. As with previous train- Editor’s Note: training.com web site to download ing events at LNC, the top shelf hanger a registration form and mail it in as and classroom facilities at the Cold Tribe Chiefs and Fly-In directed; or for Express Registration War Aviation Museum (CWAM) will be Coordinators, remember call: Dennis Carew at (920) 749-9558. used for ground school. The Dallas area to send in your calendar of provides a variety of different types of October 9-11 airports in close proximity to LNC, as fly-ins and more detailed CPPP Training Clinic well as lots of open, uncongested areas information, as it becomes Lancaster, Texas for flight training. Fuel at LNC is some The CFF will conduct a CPPP event in of the lowest in Texas and maintenance available, so it can be Lancaster, Texas, October 9-11 hosted is available if needed. A great speaker published in the Flyer.

38 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 events will be lasting memories. And if you have a favorite destination in your region, think about hosting one of these events yourself. If not in your region, just contact the Fly-In coor- TIP TANK KITS dinator in that particular region and discuss it with him/her. Should you need a little help getting started and/ Extended Range, Gross Weight Increase, more or tips on organizing either type of Fly- useful load, Lower Engine & Airframe Maintenance In, please contact Bruce Thumann at [email protected] or Fifteen (15) U.S. gallons each, always (713) 875-3056. aluminum construction. • Tribe Email Updates Osborne Tip Tank Kits are original Piper If you are not receiving the South Central Tribe’s Fly-In and/or Tribe- factory equipment. specific email notices and would like • to, please email Bruce Thumann at LED navigation lights now available. [email protected]. He will make sure to amend the SC Tribe email list to include your address. Most updates will be for upcoming events that will also be located in the ICS National Newsletter; however, some may be important last-minute details not appropriate for the National 18173 Osborne Rd, Victorville, CA 92394 • www.jlosborne.com • E-mail: [email protected] Newsletter. Phone: 800-963-8477 • (760)245-8477 • Fax: (760)245-5735

Help Us Get to Know You! Order an ICS Name Badge Today Wear an ICS name badge at fly-ins, air shows and all aviation events. Actual size is 2 X 3 inches. Blue on white plastic with 3-color ICS logo. $10 includes shipping in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Overseas, add $1 per order. For additional badges, use this format on plain paper.

Enclosed is $______for _____ badges Type or print CLEARLY (What we see is what you’ll get.) 1. Nickname______2. Name______3. City & State______4. Plane #______Tribe______ICS #______Nonmembers should leave ICS # blank or show crew title. Choice for above badge (circle one) SAFETY PIN ALLIGATOR CLIP Please make checks payable to Doris Click and send to: 228 Doolittle St., Orlando, FL 32839-1474

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­39 FEATURE

VOLUME 39, NO. 9 Comanche Flyer SEPTEMBER 2012 Needs your Stories, Tips

The Official Membership Publication of The International and Tricks! Comanche Society Share your Comanche Knowledge with your Fellow ICS Members o you have a good technical tip or overhaul story you can share? What about a flying experience or recent instructional experience where you’d learned a lesson from which all pilots could benefit? Maybe a trip you took in your Comanche that you’d recommend to others. We also desperately need in-flight photos of your Comanche Dto feature on the cover of the Flyer (needs to be at least 1 MB in size to print well). Anything you can share that would be helpful to fellow ICS members, we need you to send in your information! You don’t have to be a writer by trade, just put your thoughts down and tell your story – it will be edited, if needed. Below is a list of regular columns in the Flyer, and a few new ones that have been suggested (the word count provided is only an average to help guide you).

Cover photo/Comanche Spirit – Not Maintenance Q & A – Do you have Fly-In Reports – A pretty popular only do you get to have your Comanche a question regarding maintenance on column, but we don’t see the on the cover of the Flyer, but we like to your Comanche? Send it in and we’ll experiences some of the tribes are feature the owner so ICS members can have our Technical Directors suggest having. Send us your story. We’d like get to know you better. You can fill out an some solutions. As questions come in to hear how your Tribe is getting owner questionnaire and the editor will and a reader has an alternate solution, together and sharing the camaraderie. write a story about you, or you can submit they can send them in as well. This Average length is 250-500 words. your own. Average length is 1,000 words. would be an ongoing format for Best of the Flyer – This is an easy maintenance discussion. Letters to the Editor – Send in your one. If you know of an article in past comments about an article you read in From the Logbook – If you have a Flyers that you found useful and you a past Comanche Flyer. Or you can also trip that you’d recommend to other think needs repeating, send a copy and send items of interest you’d like to share members, or a particular “adventure” we’ll reprint it. with other Comanche owners that may you’ve taken in your Comanche that you’d not be long enough for an article. Really, like to share, this is the column! We have If you have a story that you don’t we’d like to hear from you! featured trips in story and journal formats. feel fits into any of the above categories, Average length is 1,500 words. send it anyway. Most issues include Technically Speaking – We like to feature stories and we’d like to hear feature technical information you have Product/Vendor Information – from you. What do you enjoy learning found useful in maintaining your Co- Did you have a good experience with or reading about in the Flyer? Do you manche. Maybe it was an ongoing a vendor that you’d like to share or have something you can contribute? problem that you finally found a have you recently purchased a product We’d like to hear from you! solution or you want to warn other that you’d recommend to other ICS owners of an issue that occurred with members? The best information that Send your contributions and ideas your airplane. Anything technical is most owners get is from others who to Editor Melissa Frisbie at mfrisbie8@ featured in this column. Average length have experienced it, so share with us! att.net, or 125 N. Turnberry St., Wichita, is 500-1,200 words. Average length is 250-750 words. KS 67230.

40 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 SIMPLE AS 1-2-3 No bothersome paperwork required! If you love to fly, and you love animals, please join us now! It’s easy, it’s fun, and it’s extremely rewarding. Joining is easy and takes just a minute of your time. 1. Go to www.pilotsnpaws.org and register 2. Post your information and read other posts 3. Wait for contacts / make contact with others WHY JOIN THE PILOTS N PAWS NETWORK? • Enjoy flying while helping a worthwhile Pilots non-profit organization ® • Flights are tax-deductible 501c3 • Expand your network of pilot/aviation N Paws contacts and other professionals is an online meeting place for pilots and other volunteers • Gain flight experience and log more hours who help to transport rescue animals by air. The mission of the site is to • Explore new geographical areas provide a user-friendly communication venue between those that rescue, • An extremely rewarding experience shelter, and foster animals; and pilots and plane owners willing to assist every time with the transportation of these animals. A general aviation transport requires just one pilot volunteer and is far more efficient and dependable than time-consuming ground trans- ®

portation for these animals who are often in danger of euthanization. ® Volunteer pilots retain complete authority of their planning and flights, Pilots N Paws and can give as much or as little time as they like. www.pilotsnpaws.org

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­41 FEATURE The Infamous Cracked Main Landing Gear Strut Housing by Charles Littwin size for repair is 5/8" on each side of ometimes ones misfortune in aviation can help others when the hole or 1-1/4" total for the repair to they share. One of the first major repairs on my 1965 260, be allowed. The owner’s name is Bruce after purchasing her in December 1999, was to repair a and he charges $880 to repair the right S side, and $990 to $1165 to repair the cracked main landing gear strut housing (also known as the trun- left side. The additional charge on the nion) near a bolt hole in this part. Piper decided to drill a hole in left side accounts for modification to the strut housing to hold a clamp bracket. The technical description the squat switch bracket to accept the of the 3/16" hole is the bolt location for the girdle clamp assem- round switch, if needed. The left-side bly that holds the gear assist spring. The parts catalog specifically repair fits the later style switch com- names the clamp assembly parts, items 28 & 29, as a “strap, main monly called the “round switch.” (The gear spring attachment” and “bracket assembly, main gear spring switch is not included with the repair.) attachment,” respectively. In my opinion repair is the best option — although replacement from a salvage yard will get you going again In time, either from hard landings or the crack located behind the clamp (and quicker than repair), the flawed forward-to-rear flexing of the housing, band. If you find this problem, do not design will still remain. Not only does a slight crack can develop at this hole fly your airplane until it is repaired. S & B repair the crack, they beef up under the clamp band. I understand The reasons are many: you could cause the webbing to prevent the crack from from several ICS folks, including Matt more damage to the trunnion, the FAA reoccurring. They use FAA-approved Kurke of Comanche Gear, there is a tells you not to fly with a known defi- data for all repairs. All repaired parts preventative-maintenance procedure ciency, insurance companies may use are returned to service with a Yellow to assist in preventing this crack from this to deny a claim, and if the crack Tag and an FAA Form 8130-3. A occurring, which is described later on. gets too large it cannot be repaired. word of caution, there may be other First, I will start with the scenario I There is only one shop in the US autho- shops doing these repairs that are not experienced in 2000 on the right main rized to repair this crack — S & B approved. These repaired parts are and again in January 2007 on the left Industries Inc. in Murray, UT (801-261- returned to the owner/customer with- side. Fluid will start weeping out from 4076). The maximum allowable crack out any paperwork and, as we know,

42 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 Violent oversteer of NLG assembly. paperwork makes our birds airwor- aircraft is moved by a tug. If the stop aircraft is towed will alleviate the risk thy. Another excellent option is the is broken off, the nose gear has been of shearing the NLG stops, and should Australian replacement, which is now turned beyond its limits and is cause be considered when the aircraft is to approved in the US, but it is signifi- for further investigation. If your stops be moved by any mechanical means. cantly more expensive than a repair. are sheared off, before returning to Support the upper link so it does not If you do elect to use S & B for the the air make sure of the following: the drop down and jam against the lower repair make sure to call them prior to steering arm is still attached securely to strut/fork through bolt. The lower link shipping for complete info on what is the top of the strut, the engine mount can run on the tire.) needed to accompany the trunnion. I or nose gear mount has not been bent, I hope that those of you reading this have had great experiences with this the steering push rods are not compro- have not gotten a crack yet and are company, which is one reason for writ- mised, the rudder pedals and rudder interested in the technique to assist in ing this article. I have also been pleased bar are not bent or broken, all pulleys preventing the crack. The technique with their warranty service — they state in the rudder system are still intact (a involves rounding the hole in the strut that they offer a limited warranty, but my cable tension test is the quickest way housing where the clamp goes. Having experience has been they really go the to find a big problem here), and finally a right angle, as typical in drilling a extra mile to stand behind their work. the rudder horn/torque tube have not hole through metal, creates a stress Another service they provide is been bent. As you can see, it is a big point and eventually … you got it, a repair of broken stops on the nose deal! Get your NLG stops repaired, crack. My neighbor who is a sheet metal landing gear assembly, typically caused and ensure the turn limits are clearly mechanic for a major airline told me it by overturning it with a tug. Many marked on the NLG assembly. I always is Metallurgy 101 to round a hole near Comanches have broken stops. The tell tug operators about the turn limits. its edges. This prevents stress risers at stop on my Comanche was repaired (Technical Advisor Note: Separating the hole and helps prohibit the crack and now I check it every time the the nose gear scissor links before the from occurring.

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­43 The procedure is to improve the L/H trunnion with chamfered hole — cracked. surface finish on the backside of the web where the hole is located. The strut is a cast piece and the casting is “de-burred” but the surface finish is too prone to crack propagation. The procedure is to also improve the surface finish with minimal material removal, which can be accomplished Inspect and repair of L/H MLG assembly. by using a 180 or 220 grit drum or flapper sanding wheel, and follow up with a Scotch-Brite® polishing wheel or Craytex abrasive impregnated polishing wheel. This is more important than the chamfer of the hole. Bruce claims this procedure is no guarantee to prevent cracking: “Over the years I have repaired countless trunnions that have had the hole chamfered and the web polished. The This is Piper’s latest/greatest MLG cracking failure is due to a design flaw. trunnion with Forging Number I am starting to see a lot more singles 27016 that is cracked. Bruce has that are experiencing the same problem seen several of these cracked. with the trunnion cracking.” Hopefully you do not develop this crack, but if you do (as I did in both of Before and after MLG trunnion repair. my trunnions) it is reassuring to know that S & B can get our wonderful birds airworthy again with the proper FAA- approved repair.

Repaired NLG drag brace assembly.

Inspected and repair NLG assembly.

44 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 Inspect and repair of L/H MLG assembly. Since 1917... Ready for Takeoff Since there have been airplanes, there have been people pushing them to their peak performance. We are those people. Hartzell Propeller’s Top Prop conversion program provides your airplane enhanced performance for: 〉 Shorter take-off distance 〉 Lower noise levels 〉 Better ground clearance Swap Your Prop 〉 Reduced tip erosion Most Top Prop orders ship 〉 Increased climb rate from stock within 3 days. 〉 Increased cruise speed 〉 Smoother operation PIPER We love to fly. And we love the people Comanche 180 (2-blade) Comanche 260 Before and after MLG trunnion repair. who love to fly. Arrow & Turbo Arrow Cherokee 235 & Dakota Prepare for takeoff. Cherokee Six-260 & 300 Aztec Twin Comanche (2-blade) Seneca II & III Malibu/Mirage/Matrix (3-blade composite) Lance & Turbo Lance Volunteer Pilots Volunteer Pilots Apache (2-blade) Seminole Needed Needed

Learn more at HartzellProp.com Built on Honor since 1917 Contact us at 800-942-7767

Volunteers flying for the Volunteers flying for the environment since 1979. environment since 1979.

Phone: 307-332-3242 Phone: 307-332-3242 www.lighthawk.org www.lighthawk.org [email protected] (403) 987-9258 (250) 900-0282

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­45

6th Vertical

Volunteer Pilots Needed

Volunteers flying for the environment since 1979.

Phone: 307-332-3242 • www.lighthawk.org

6th Horizontal CLASSIFIEDS PA24-260 PA30/39 1972 Comanche PA-260C. 5210-TT, 800-SMOH, 1964 Twin Comanche PA-30, SR#342, N34RA, TTAF • (Two issue minimum) Recent annual, 3-blade prop, Garmin-430W/ 6045, New Custom panel with Aspen-PFD, Synthetic • 25 Words: $25.00/2 issues 430/340/327, King-KCS-55A-HSI, Century-IIIC-AP, Vision, GMA-340 Audio 4pl intercom, GNS-430W, Yoke • No charge for photos WXll -Storm, Many options and speed mods, Always Garmin 796-cpld to 430, JPI-760 Eng. Anal. With FF, • Extra Words: $0.50/word hangared, $95K. George@ 319-210-0995 2/2 STEC 50-AP, $98,000, Call Andy (615) 305-6612 or • Payment must accompany advertisement order. email [email protected] 2/2 1965 PA24-260 N8617P: 5958TT; 234 since fac. All advertising must be received by the ICS in writing (mail, fax, or e-mail) five weeks prior to the desired reman; No damage; All ADs; Garmin-530W and 430W month of publication. Payment must accompany adver­ both WAAS upgrades; S-tec 50 autopilot; WX10A tisement order. Stormscope; King HSI; Precise Flt. Stdby. Vac. Sys.; Renewals may be made by telephone, but initial Paint and interior 9; Many extras. Always hangared; ad must be in writing. One family since new. $80,000. jnarbaugh@gmail. The publisher makes no warranties as to the com. 231-526-5359. 1/2 veracity or accuracy of the information provided by the advertiser. The publisher is under no obligation to accept any or all advertisements.

International 1964 PA-30: 5000TT; 1750/250-SMOH. GNS-430, Comanche Society Cent-2000, WX10A Storm-scope, EDM-760, modern panel. Leather, All logs. Always hangared. Trading Post & Classified World-wide delivery available. $69,900. Email Advertising Contact: for specs/pics. Fred Benson. [email protected]; 678-571-0496 2/2 Betsy Beaudoin 2779 Aero Park Drive Traverse City, MI 49686 Phone: (800) 773-7798 Fax: (231) 946-9588 PA24-400 E-mail: [email protected] 1964 PA-24-400. TT-5300. SMOH-300. Complete Logs. 1280lbs useful load. Robertson-STOL. Lopresti- mods. Dual Ray-Jay turbochargers. Garmin 530- WAAS. Over $50k spent to restore in last 18 months. AIRCRAFT WANTED Just out of Webco annual. Please help – family growing – need 6-place Comanche – twin or single!! 1966-PA30 N7861Y 7238-TT 816/822-SMOH ENGINES/ COMANCHES WANTED: All models, runouts OK, needing Call Regg 605-207-0309. 2/2 PROPS WowCowlSpinners, Tip-Tanks, New Heater, P&I/Radio upgrades OK, fast discriminate transaction New Paint/Windows, Leather Interior, Century2000AP, on your ramp. 20 years experience/references. Call HSI, Garmin430,Stormscope & much more. NDH- Jim, (760) 803-3093. [email protected]. 1/2 Complete Logs. $130K. 717-940-2172 adouple@ verizon.net 1/2

COMANCHES FOR SALE PA24-250 1959 Comanche PA24-250 3500TT 1000SMOH & prop/3-blade, Dual KX155w/GS, KLN94 IFRw/map, STEC30 w/alt hold, Strikefinder EI EGT, EI FP=5L Fuel monitor, New 4-place intercom, brakes, tires, tail AD complied, tip-tanks, pulse-landing lights, hangared-NDH, 918-607-6442, $49,900 2/2

46 • ­Comanche Flyer APRIL 2015 ADVERTISING INDEX PLACING AN AD? Aerotech Publications...... 31 Use this list as a guideline for the information you may Aerox (Shaw Aerox LLC)...... 27 want to provide and the order in which to do so. Air Parts of Lock Haven...... 23 • YEAR, Model Year of Aircraft Aircraft Specialties Services...... 38 • MODEL, PA 24-180, 250, 260, 400 Aircraft Spruce and Specialty...... 21 • SERIAL NUMBER, Serial Number of Aircraft AKG...... C2 • N-NUMBER, Registration Number of Aircraft Alpha Aviation...... 35 • TOTAL AIRFRAME TIME, Total Hours On Airframe AOPA Insurance Agency...... 29 • AIRFRAME DAMAGE HISTORY, Any Damage History e.g. Gear Up Landing Clifton Aero...... 27 • TOTAL ENGINE TIME, Total Hours On Engine Since Factory New or Remanufactured Comanche Flyer Foundation...... 13 • ENGINE TIME SINCE TOP OR MAJOR OVERHAUL Comanche Gear...... 18 • PROPELLER TIME, Total Time On Prop Since New or Overhaul Electronics International...... 28 • ANNUAL INSPECTION DATE General Aviation Modifications...... 15 • FLIGHT INSTRUMENTS, Standard Gyro Panel, Electronic Flight Instrument System Great Lakes Aero Products...... 35 • RADIO / NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT LISTING, Communications & Navigation Hartzell Engine Technologies...... 17 Equipment Listing e.g. GPS, ILS, VORs Hartzell Propeller Inc...... 45 • WEATHER ADVOIDANCE EQUIPMENT, Stormscope, Radar, Heritage Aero, Inc...... 11,41 • SPECIAL EQUIPMENT LISTING, Engine Monitor (EGT, CHT, Fuel Flow, etc.) Insight Instrument Corp...... C3 • AUTOPILOT, Type & Make of Autopilot J.L. Osborne Inc...... 39 • INTERCOM Johnston Aircraft Services...... C4 • INTERIOR CONDITION & NUMBER OF SEATS Knots 2U, Ltd...... 17 • EXTERIOR MODIFICATIONS, Gap Seals, Wing Tips, Speed Mods, Windshield Lighthawk...... 45 • PAINT CONDITION Met-Co-Aire...... 21 • HANGERED OR TIED DOWN Oilamatic, Inc...... 9 • AD NOTE COMPLIANCE Paul Bowen...... 21 • GENERAL COMMENTS Pilots N Paws...... 41 • ASKING PRICE planecover.com...... 41 • CONTACT PHONE NUMBER Plane Power Ltd...... C2 • CONTACT E-MAIL Poplar Grove Airmotive...... 35 Precision Propeller...... 11 Preferred Airparts...... 16 Abbreviation Key: Rocky Mountain Propellers, Inc...... 23 A/C Air Conditioning FGP Full Gyro Panel OH Overhaul AD’s Airworthiness Directives FWF Firewall Forward PET Piper Electric Trim Ron & John’s Comanche Service...... 15 ADF Automatic Direction Finder GPS Global Positioning System RB Rotating Beacon AH Artificial Horizon G/S Glide Slope R/C Rate of Climb SCS Aircraft Interiors Inc...... 27 A&P Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic GSP Ground Service Plug RE Right Engine AI Aircraft Inspector H/P Heated Pitot RG Retractable Landing Gear Shaw Aerox LLC...... 27 A/P Audio Panel HP Horsepower RNAV Area Navigation Sky Manor’s Air Repair LLC...... 17 AP Autopilot HSI Horizontal Situation Indicator SB’s Service Bulletins CDI Course Deviation Indicator IFR Instrument Flight Rules SCMOH Since Chrome Major Overhaul Sound Ex Products...... 9 CHT Cylinder Head Temperature IMC Instrument Meteorological SFN Since Factory New COM Communication Conditions SFRM Since Factory Remanufacture Tsuniah Lake Lodge...... 45 C/R Counter Rotating ILS Instrument Landing System SMOH Since Major Overhaul C/T Carburetor Temperature LE Left Engine SOH Since Overhaul Warren Gregoire & Associates...... 18 DF Direction Finder LOC Localizer (Runway Centerline S/N Serial Number DG Directional Gyro Guidance) SPOH Since Propeller Overhaul Webco...... 35 DME Distance Measuring Equipment LORAN Long Range Navigation System STOH Since Top Overhaul EFIS Electronic Flight Instrument M/B Marker Beacon TBO Time Between Overhauls Zephyr Aircraft Engines...... 7 System MDH Major Damage History TT Total Time EGT Exhaust Gas Temperature NDH No Damage History TTAE Total Time Airframe and Engine ELT Emergency Locator Transmitter NM Nautical Miles TTSN Total Time Since New E/P External Power Plug NAV Navigation Radio Receiver XPDR Transponder F/D Flight Director OAT Outside Air Temperature

Fax: (231) 946-9588, or E-mail: TRADING POST [email protected]

Trading Post is a non-commercial, member to member service provided free of charge, one time per member, 1971 Piper Comanche 260C PARTS: IO-540 Engine, PA30 PARTS Nose-Bowls, Spinners/Backing Plates, per year. The sale of aircraft is not permitted in the ailerons, flaps, tail assembly, radios, instruments, prop- 5/6 Seats, Beacon with housing, Metco Wing Trading Post. eller and many other parts. CALL 701-293-8362 1/1 Tips, Fuel Valves, Control wheels, Others, CALL • Ads must be submitted in writing only (fax or E-mail OK). 717-940-2172 [email protected] 1/1 • Free ads may not be placed by phone. LYCOMING O-540-A1D5 narrow-deck engine • First 25 words are free. parts. Crankshaft, Camshaft, Counterweights, Two-Comanche control wheels; excellent condition, • Extra words are $0.40 per word. Case-Halves, Rods-certified by Aircraft -Specialties leather-wrapped, original Comanche emblems, and DIVCO. Other Misc.-cylinders / parts available. push-to-talk on both yokes, auto-pilot disconnect. Call Dana (406) 465-4328 or email-dana.corson@ $300 plus $10 shipping. Contact Larry Keener/ charter.net. 1/1 Keener & Assoc. 843-272-7766. 1/1

APRIL 2015 Comanche Flyer • ­47 48 ______b. a. happen toyou(andoneofthemwill): As apilotonlytwobadthingscan ______to watchyourairspeed. Death isjustnature’s wayoftellingyou ______airplane; thepessimist,parachute. ute tosociety. Theoptimistinventsthe Both optimistsandpessimistscontrib ______living. Flying is a hard way to earn an easy ______anyone else.) (However, these feelingsdon’t involve love, affection,intimacyandcaring. very muchcapableofsuchfeelingsas times having a swaggeringexterior, is The averagefighterpilot,despitesome- also beverycharmingandpersonable. and break things. However, they can systems managerswhokillbadpeople Fighter Pilotsaresteelyeyed,weapons ______but reallyjustride. Passengers arepeoplewhosaytheyfly, for otherpeoplewhocan’t fly. Pilots are people who drive airplanes Reflections Aviation Aviation Reflections LAST LAUGH

• One dayyouwillwalkouttothe One dayyouwillwalkouttotheair flight. aircraft, notknowingitisyourlast craft, knowingitisyourlastflight. ­Comanche Flyer

- - ______do notappearlikely, therearenolimits. particular aircraft.If subsequent flights there mustbeanotherflight bythat The aircraftlimitsareonly thereif ______ocean. Mostofthemarescary. can onlybeheardatnightandoverthe There arecertainaircraftsoundsthat ______demands oneiotamoreisafool. aircraft cangivehimisapilot;hewho He whodemandseverythingthathis ______are full. bladder isemptyandyourfueltanks Before eachflight,makesurethatyour ______b. a. About Rules: ______the laws. the rules,butyoucanneversuspend You can and sometimes should suspend by God. The laws (of physics) were ordained better thanyou. that theyknowhowtoflyyourairplane The rulesaremadebymenwhothink There arerulesandtherelaws:

If youdeviatefromarule,itmust the talenttoexecuteit. if youdon’t haveabetterideaand The rulesareagoodplacetohide bridge). you flyunderabridge,don’t hitthe be aflawlessperformance(e.g.,if ______gas thanviceversa. two-hour bladderandthreehoursof In theAlaskanbush,I’dratherhavea ______Airlines.) reduce costs.”(President,DELTA Wilbur would have to fire Orville to “If theWrightbrotherswerealivetoday, aviation-reflections/ wordpress.com/2014/12/30/ Source: https://yougottobekidding. Submitted by:CharlesLittwin ______can’t doboth. growing upandbecomingapilot.You You havetomakeupyourmindabout And myfavorite; ______occupied byanidiot? one tellmewhytheotherisalways I’ve flowninbothpilotseats.Cansome ______flight attendantcangetapilotpregnant. Airlines havereallychanged;nowa ______was safe. when flyingwasdangerousandsex An oldpilotisonewhocanremember APRIL 2015 -

© CAN STOCK PHOTO INC. / BDENOON © CAN STOCK PHOTO INC. / BDENOON Why would YOU want to JAS ENGINE fly behind our overhaul? OVERHAULS BECAUSE: • We build an excellent, smooth, powerful, reliable engine. JAS, your service • We put more emphasis on quality than professionals for: quantity. ENGINE REMOVAL• • We have reasonable prices as we do not AND REPLACEMENT have high cost overhead. PROPELLER • • We have experience – we have been BALANCING rebuilding engines since 1947! AIRFRAME• MAINTENANCE JAS Standard Engine Overhauls use critical new specifications, WEIGHT AND• blueprinting/static balancing/attractive paint finish/test cell BALANCE acceptance run and warranty. 100 HOUR/ANNUAL• Options are new cylinder assemblies and our ULTRA package. INSPECTIONS Ultra features include special blueprinting, dynamic balancing, MODIFICATIONS• flow enhancement and matching of cylinder ports and appearance enhancement. Johnston Aircraft Service LYCOMING ENGINE PROFESSIONALS P.O. Box 1457 • Tulare, CA 93275 • Phone: (559) 686-1794 or 686-2161 • Fax: (559) 686-9360 e-mail: [email protected] • Web Site: www.johnstonaircraft.com