testpilot(at)wildblue.net
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 Posted: Sun May 06, 2007 2:36 pm Post subject: Lightning Mods |
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Hi Colin
The seatbacks are independent from the bottom seats. The backs are hinged at the bottom to the rear seat bulkhead, they do fold forward to allow for standard access to the baggage area.They are constructed by glass,1/8" foam and glass with a with a 3 ply glass frame perpendicular to the back to hold the "memory foam" in the shape I picked. All material is FAA approved. The bottoms are the new pans provided by Arion, I narrowed them 3/8" and added 1/8" carbon fiber honeycomb to each side of the pan to hold the shape of the leather pop outs. The tan leather pop outs are made of the softest (pink) memory foam which will not squeeze the pilots body. The bottom cushions are green and pink foam except at the forward section where it is only pink. This allows you to have the maximum clearance between the controls and instrument panel. The cloth bottom section allows you to add or remove blue foam depending of the height of the pilots. Without the blue foam the pads only take up about 1-1/4" when setting on the seat.
The aluminum side panels are a work in progress. I have designed a different canopy latching system from parts used in other aircraft. I will have one handle to operate 4 latches (2 on each side) that when closed pulls the canopy downward and stops all sideward movement. I should have the linkage in by the end of the week. The aluminum panes will hold upholstery and hide the linkage. So far the latches hold the canopy perfect but cost ($) for parts is too high for the benefits as of this date.
I put in 4 aluminum air vents in place of the 2 plastic ones, I like the looks and they close off completely. If you look closely the are from the passenger compartment of most airlines. We had a 737 that was scrapped so they were free.
The center console was also modified. I raised the top forward section 1 1/2" to give the throttle more room and a padded arm rest will be added to the rear section.
I enjoy doing all this but remember, it all comes with a big weight penalty. My goal is to personally lower my weight by whatever the aircraft gains.
Johnny
Ruby Star Airpark, (14AZ) Arizona.
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