Lakeathon Report - 2006
Roughly 200 people and 55 Lake aircraft attended Lakeathon
2006 last month in Winter Haven Florida. Most encouraging was the appearance of
many new Lake Flyers to compliment the old guard. The new people inject fresh
enthusiasm into the proceedings, and the old-timers bring valuable experience
resulting in a symbiotic relationship that benefits all.
There was a full four days of technical seminars, water flying
and socializing. In addition to old favorites such as the maintenance sessions,
the insurance discussion, Capture the Sprit photo gallery and the perennially
informative Instructor’s Forum, we had a fly–in to Kermit Weeks’ Fantasy of
Flight. This “aviation theme park” is a one-of a kind collection of historic
aircraft in a setting that recalls the days of early aviation. Tours were given
to the “back of the house”, where aircraft which come in as basket cases are
painstakingly restored to new condition. Weeks has seemingly infinite quantity
of airplanes waiting to be restored, and each year the collection grows a bit.
Another unique activity this year was an inspection program on
propeller hubs in compliance with Hartzell’s SB-269 which affects most of the
4-cylinder Lakes. Twenty one prop hubs were eddy current inspected on owners’
airplanes. Since we had a flat daily rate with the inspection company, the
prorated cost to each participant was a bargain $91 for the inspection, compared
with $200 or more at other facilities. No cracks were found in any of the hubs,
and these results have been forwarded to FAA in hopes of staving off a potential
new AD on the subject.
Hartzell representative Sam Gascho gave an informative
presentation on the operation, care and maintenance of Hartzell props, including
discussion of the aforementioned AD. And we also heard from MT-Propeller
regarding their 3-blade composite propeller with reversing option.
Representative Douglas Turner, who described the construction and maintenance of
their propeller. The composite blades have a stainless steel leading edge, and
minor damage can be repaired using only 5-minute epoxy. MT have applied a
special coating on their props which protects the prop from the exhaust
temperatures that are directed at it by our engines.
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Lake Lineup at Fantasy of Flight -- Photo by Tom Tuxill |
Those who have flown with MT props on Lakes report that
planes with these propellers run smoother and quieter and accelerate better.
Turner announced a special incentive price for Lake owners if a large enough
group order can be generated. Those who have an interest in this program should
contact the club right away. |
