 |
Matronics Email Lists
Web Forum Interface to the Matronics Email Lists
|
| View previous topic :: View next topic |
| Author |
Message |
tonyplane(at)bellsouth.ne
Guest
|
 Posted: Fri Jul 31, 2009 7:53 pm Post subject: [ZBAG] OSH Forum |
 |
|
Zodiac CH 601 XL / CH 650 update – July 27, 2009
Regarding flutter: Completed Ground Vibration Tests (GVT) to typical industry standards have revealed no tendency for the aircraft to flutter at any point within the approved flight envelope, even when the aircraft is not properly rigged (over-weight, improper loading, and looser control cables). Owners who nevertheless wish to install aileron counterweights will soon be able to do so as the German consulting team is working on a design. The UK CAA is also working on a design, which was recently flight tested. We do not know the outcome of the test at this time.
Regarding load limits: Static tests have confirmed that the airframe meets the max. allowable +4/-2 G limit loads at 1,320 pounds with zero permanent deformation in the airframe. Reports from DAR are forthcoming.
Regarding aircraft checklists: The seven points covered in the Chris Heintz letter of July 7, 2009 should be added to all pre-flight checklists for the 601/650. Chris also recommends that the "condition inspection checklist" (July 2009 edition) be used as part of the mandated annual inspections, but also for general condition verifications after unusual events (i.e. hard landings) or unusual flight conditions (flight through extreme turbulence), or before the first flight. Note that engine, avionics and other non airframe items are not on this checklist.
Regarding Aircraft Handling (stick forces/lower stall speeds): Although Chris Heintz has repeatedly reminded pilots to get properly checked out prior to taking the controls of a new aircraft, like the Zodiac. Some pilots still report being surprised by the light stick forces of their 601/650. To increase stick loads and minimize the chance of pilots over-controlling the aircraft, Chris has finished the design of a simple spring system that is attached to an elevator control cable. Once installed, elevator and aileron forces are similar and there is less sensitivity in pitch control. Chris wants to do more flight testing before releasing the drawings.
Addressing Airspeed and ASI Markings: With 601/650 models manufactured by various companies around the world and "Experimental" versions completed by hundreds of individual builders, it is not surprising that a range of airspeed limits and airspeed indicator markings exist for the design. While this is not inherently incorrect (different MTOW and different engines justify this – and phase 1 flight testing should confirm it), it can nevertheless be confusing.
As a general all-around and conservative alternative, Chris Heintz has issued an updated set of airspeeds and ASI markings for the standard CH 601 XL, as published in the Zodiac CH 601 XL S-LSA Pilot Operating Handbook (July 2009). These speeds should be included in every Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) and should be reflected on the traditional white, green and yellow arcs of the ASI – once calibrated. Variances should only be considered after review and testing by competent individuals. A copy of the S-LSA POH with proper marking and limitations (updated to the Chris Heintz letter of July 7th, 2009) can be downloaded from the AMD web site at: POH: http://www.newplane.com/amd_downloads/MASTER_AMD_POH_601_650_july_8_2009_at_1255lbs.pdf
Service Manual: http://www.newplane.com/amd_downloads/Maintenance_Manual_601_650_Continental_July_2009.pdf
FAA Update: In response to the NTSB letter (dated April 14, 2009) the FAA chartered a special review team to investigate the details of each NTSB recommendation. In a July 13 letter to the NTSB, FAA administrator Randolph Babbitt writes that the FAA "lacks adequate justification" to ground the CH-601XL models, per the NTSB’s request. "Data indicates the CH-601XL has a safety record similar to other S-LSA and appears capable of safe flight and operations if maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations."
We will continue to update you as we get updated from Chris Heintz, who is working with the Europeans, UK and USA authorities on all this. (aprazer(at)cableone.net)
---
| | - The Matronics Zenith-List Email Forum - | | | Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Zenith-List |
|
|
|
| Back to top |
|
 |
psm(at)att.net
Guest
|
| Posted: Fri Jul 31, 2009 8:37 pm Post subject: [ZBAG] OSH Forum |
|
|
Hi Tony,
Thank you for the forum information. I feel optimistic about the final outcome of my XL project now.
Paul
XL Grounded
do not archive
At 08:51 PM 7/31/2009, you wrote:
[quote]Zodiac CH 601 XL / CH 650 update – July 27, 2009 [b]
| | - The Matronics Zenith-List Email Forum - | | | Use the List Feature Navigator to browse the many List utilities available such as the Email Subscriptions page, Archive Search & Download, 7-Day Browse, Chat, FAQ, Photoshare, and much more:
http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Zenith-List |
|
|
|
| Back to top |
|
|
|
|
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum
You cannot attach files in this forum
You can download files in this forum
|
Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group
|
Get Email Distribution Too!
FAQ
Search
Memberlist
Usergroups
Register
Profile
Log in to check your private messages
Log in
