We’re coming up to flying season again, so that means finishing up off-season upgrades on the planes. Every plane gets a full annual checkup, but the Kam Aero got some upgrades, and the Ultimate biplane needs a repair.
At the end of last season, I figured out a way to remove some weight from the Kam Aero. Turns out it could be as much as a pound. Normally, I wouldn’t bother making changes for a few ounces on a 40lb+ plane, but a pound could be noticeable.
The great part about this is all of it is in front of the center of gravity. That means I might even be able to remove the 2oz I stuck to the tailwheel for balance.
Before I started on these upgrades, however, I need to send my motor back to Desert Aircraft for a little maintenance. The seal on the front hub was leaking, so I figured I would send it back to have that replaced. Turns out it was a good thing I did since they found a few more things to clean up. I had a badly scored piston/cylinder so they replaced both. They also replaced all the other seals and rebuilt the carbs while they were at it. She did look a little sad without a motor though.
While DA was taking care of my motor, it was time to remove some weight.
- Replaced aluminum spinner with carbon = -4oz
- Replaced landing gear with stronger/lighter version = -5oz
- Replaced canister mufflers = -3.2oz
- Replaced plywood canister mounts with fiberglass = -3oz
- Total savings = -15.2oz
Not quite a pound, but I may get there if I can remove some of the weight in the tail. Score!
While I was at it, I buffed the canopy some so it shines almost at well as the cowl.
Another addition is that orange box you can see in the canopy. That is a Flight Coach. This one will be interesting for practice sessions. The way it works is that it tracks the path of the plane, and it allows you to plot your flight after. Lots of pilots find it helpful to review practice sessions, so I’m looking forward to trying it.
Now I just need some good weather to get out and practice. It’s been really windy lately.
On to the Ultimate…
After my last Ultimate flight last season, I noticed the hatch was coming up and loose. When I removed it, I saw why. That section of the hatch is held down with a tab and slot system. I guess vibration basically sawed the slot open.
That’s no good. I still haven’t fixed this one yet, but it should be a simple fix. I’m just going to add a thin piece of fiberglass underneath, and then fill the gap with some spare plywood.
Time to go fly!
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