---------------------------------------------------------- Kitfox-List Digest Archive --- Total Messages Posted Mon 12/22/03: 33 ---------------------------------------------------------- Today's Message Index: ---------------------- 1. 12:25 AM - Re: European Kitfoxes (michel) 2. 01:06 AM - Re: European Kitfoxes (Kurt A. Schumacher) 3. 01:09 AM - Re: Wheel Skis (michel) 4. 01:13 AM - European fly-in (michel) 5. 01:17 AM - Re: Re: European Kitfoxes (michel) 6. 01:29 AM - International payments WAS: European Kitfoxes (michel) 7. 01:52 AM - Re: European Kitfoxes (Kitfox) 8. 01:57 AM - Re: Stitts fabric (Kitfox) 9. 02:03 AM - Re: Re: European Kitfoxes (Kitfox) 10. 02:12 AM - Re: Re: European Kitfoxes (Kitfox) 11. 02:12 AM - Re: European fly-in (Kitfox) 12. 04:40 AM - Re: European fly-in (michel) 13. 06:59 AM - Re: European fly-in (Ron Carroll) 14. 06:59 AM - Re: European fly-in (Ron Carroll) 15. 07:05 AM - Re: Wheel Skis (Matt Keyes) 16. 07:12 AM - Re: European Kitfoxes (Lowell Fitt) 17. 07:14 AM - Re: Paul Seehafer (Matt Keyes) 18. 07:23 AM - Hey Michel (Howard Firm) 19. 07:29 AM - REConrod Clearance Tester (michel) 20. 09:17 AM - Re: Rotax 582, was European fly-in (martin dovey) 21. 10:56 AM - Re: Hey Michel (Michel Verheughe) 22. 11:04 AM - Re: Rotax 582 (Michel Verheughe) 23. 11:23 AM - Re: Hey Michel (Howard Firm) 24. 11:57 AM - Re: Rotax 582 (Kurt A. Schumacher) 25. 12:20 PM - Re: European fly-in (Mark Scott) 26. 12:25 PM - Re: REConrod Clearance Tester (Mark Scott) 27. 12:58 PM - Re: European fly-in (Kitfox) 28. 01:02 PM - Re: Rotax 582 (Kitfox) 29. 01:35 PM - Re: Rotax 582 (martin dovey) 30. 02:10 PM - Re: Conrod Clearance Tester (Michel Verheughe) 31. 03:23 PM - Re: Finished at last (Tom Tomlin) 32. 05:30 PM - First Flight (Jack Seaford) 33. 07:52 PM - Re: First Flight (Fred Shiple) ________________________________ Message 1 _____________________________________ Time: 12:25:32 AM PST US From: michel Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Lowell Fitt" >Sadly, this thread has recalled to memory an experience I had with a >list member over the last year or so. I understand perfectly well your bitterness, Lowell, and I would encourage you to post the name of that person on the list. After all, on Ebay, users have a profile of trusthworthiness. We would like to think that Kitfox owners are all friendly and honest but they are just people. We don't like to make a fuss and we keep silent. I also have a couple of frustrations I keep for myself. But I'll write them to you privately and see what you think of it. I value your opinion. Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 2 _____________________________________ Time: 01:06:46 AM PST US From: "Kurt A. Schumacher" Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kurt A. Schumacher" Michel, Lowell, All, It happened to be me. Absolute no ignorance or bad will on my side. Sent a letter with about 30 $ - standard mail - after the one end only complaint a looong time ago. And no reaction from Lowell since. Asked for payment details again (address and/or bank) by private mail promptly after his posting to the list - we absolutely can make this over the (reliable) list - just for the case. Have enough US$ in cash here to send again, but now I prefer a direct bank-bank wire transfer. -Kurt. -----Original Message----- From: owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of michel Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Lowell Fitt" Sadly, >this thread has recalled to memory an experience I had with a list >member over the last year or so. I understand perfectly well your bitterness, Lowell, and I would encourage you to post the name of that person on the list. After all, on Ebay, users have a profile of trusthworthiness. We would like to think that Kitfox owners are all friendly and honest but they are just people. We don't like to make a fuss and we keep silent. I also have a couple of frustrations I keep for myself. But I'll write them to you privately and see what you think of it. I value your opinion. Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 3 _____________________________________ Time: 01:09:52 AM PST US From: michel Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: Wheel Skis --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Paul Seehafer" > A wheel penetration ski is not as good in the snow >as a straight ski as you have more drag and less "floatation area". Thank you, Paul, your experience is very valuable. In my case, I don't know if I will land very often on soft snow. I see the wheel penetration ski more as a safety measure if I fly during the winter, knowing that I can land safely nearly anywhere. Taking off from there is a bridge I'll cross when I meet it! :-) Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 4 _____________________________________ Time: 01:13:54 AM PST US From: michel Subject: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Kurt A. Schumacher" >What about the RSA (France) meeting in 2004? I won't have a reliable engine by the next summer, Kurt. But 2005 is definitively a good year. Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 5 _____________________________________ Time: 01:17:58 AM PST US From: michel Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Kitfox" >Michel, fortunately in the UK we do not have to wear a helmet Oh, but I'll wear it anyway, Chris! You see, I have the nasty habit to bang my head on the windscreen in despair, each time I can't find my position on the map. :-) Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 6 _____________________________________ Time: 01:29:00 AM PST US From: michel Subject: Kitfox-List: International payments WAS: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Kurt A. Schumacher" > but now I prefer a direct bank-bank wire transfer. Thank you for this explanation, Kurt. It is much better to keep the friendly tone of the the list than linger with frustrations, often on both sides, due to misunderstanding or missed delivery. This being said, sending money in a letter is a bad, bad idea, my friend. Your bank will very easily help you to send an international pay order anywhere in the world. Having family and friends in different countries, I am used to this kind of transfers that I execute simply from my computer, once logged in my bank. Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 7 _____________________________________ Time: 01:52:37 AM PST US From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" Hi Lowell, A very low and mean trick to play on someone particularly as I've found everyone on this list to be more helpful than I could hope for. If this is a UK flyer let me know and I'll follow it up for you. Chris Kitfox Owners Club (UK) ----- Original Message ----- From: "Lowell Fitt" Subject: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Lowell Fitt" > > Sadly, this thread has recalled to memory an experience I had with a list member over the last year or so. > > A European Kitfox owner asked the list for a source of the plastic fairings SS supplies for the lift struts which he wanted to use for his gear legs. I had some that I was tired of storing and agreed to send them to him for only the cost of the shipping. They were sent FedEx air express, and using my wife's discount the cost was under $25 > > Immediately after the shipment date (October 2002) and sending a direct e-mail to confirm the shipping date and the cost with my address, this person stopped his correspondence with the list - until August of this year. When he suddenly reappeared, I sent him a personal note reminding him of his obligation to me, and my lack of payment was somehow blamed on the Postal system or something like that and was promised a quick remedy to the non payment. > > I have still received no payment, nor have I received any original e-mail from this individual detailing a payment or any inquiry as to my receiving the payment. I can only assume that I am being deliberately Stiffed. Or for you that might not be familiar with the idiom, I expect that I am being deliberately denied reimbursement for the shipping expenses. > > I am seriously considering releasing his name to the list or maybe copies of all the related e-mails if I don't hear from him promptly since I know of no other way to motivate him to honor his agreement with me. > > Lowell > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 8 _____________________________________ Time: 01:57:14 AM PST US From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Stitts fabric --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" Hi John, I'll definitely look you up, really looking forwards to meeting you guys. Before we come I'll swap some contact details through the list. Chris Kitfox Owners Club (UK) ----- Original Message ----- From: "John E. King " Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Stitts fabric > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "John E. King " > > Chris, > > If you make it to Oshkosh in 2004 be sure to look me up. I park my > Series 6 in the Experimental area where the Kitfox's tie down. > > -- > John King > Warrenton, VA > > DO NOT ARCHIVE > > Kitfox wrote: > > >--> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" > > > >One thing I will say is the Kitfox guys in the US are a cracking bunch of > >guys, without them flying a Kitfox in the UK would be too expensive. > >I've now been given the Kitfox Owners Club UK to run so hopefully we'll be > >able to form some stronger ties with some of you Kitfox flyers in other > >parts of the world, maybe some of us can even get over to meet some of you! > >In the not too distant future I'm hoping to up load a Uk web site, I'll > >email the url to the newsgroup once it's up and running. > >Personally I'm going to try to go to Oshkosh this year and, in the process, > >meet some of the guys who have helped me and buy them a beer. > >Are you the only Kitfox flyer in your country or do you have any others or > >even a club? > >Happy landings > >Chris > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ Message 9 _____________________________________ Time: 02:03:06 AM PST US From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" Thanks Kurt, The French problem has been temporarily sorted, hopefully that will continue through 2004. I can see my diary filling up, been chatting to some of the other Kitfox flyers over here and they're up for visiting, one of my pals has a Glastar and we've been chatting about somewhere different to go so maybe he'll come along too, in fact he could bring our camping gear! I'm now going to follow up on the links you've posted, thanks for that. Chris ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kurt A. Schumacher" Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kurt A. Schumacher" > > Chris, > > Positive - a permit a/c are welcome here since I know about - the old problem flying from the U.K. to Switzerland was the French > restriction! > > We have a bunch of visitors from the U.K. every year - Europa, Falco, Foxes, Jodels, Vans RV with G- registrations are guests, this > year we had David Beale with his beautiful Tipsy Belfair G-APIE here! > > Some impressions: > http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/reviews.htm > e.g. > Mollis EAS Fly-In 2003: > http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/2003/friday_august_15th.htm > http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/2003/saturday_august_16th.htm > http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/2003/sunday_august_17th.htm > > Grenchen EAS Fly-In 2001: > http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/2001/friday-lszg20011.htm > http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/2001/saturday-lszg2001.htm > http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/2001/sunday-lszg2001.htm > > It's always a pleasure to welcome a lot of visitors from abroad with the annual EAS Fly-In! > > The French RSA - 57me Rassemblement national les 23, 24 et 25 juillet 2004 - accoding to http://www.rsanordest.fr.st/ - highly > probably at Chambley-Bussires (PVT-5424), F > [14.5 nm W (280) Metz Nancy Lorraine, LFJL] > > -Kurt. > > -----Original Message----- > From: owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Kitfox > To: kitfox-list@matronics.com > Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" > > Kurt, > Just picked up on what you wrote re the EAS Fly-in 2004 and had a quick look at the web-site, looks like a good fly-in worth > attending. Like Michel I have converted my Kitfox from Group A to microlight so until 2005 I cannot fly there in my own Kitfox > although I may be able to fly in another a/c. Do you know if they accept Permit a/c from the UK? What is/where is/when is the RSA > (France) meeting in 2004 > > Michel, fortunately in the UK we do not have to wear a helmet in a fixed wing microlight although I always flew with one in the > military, simply wearing a headset was strange at first! > > Chris > > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Kurt A. Schumacher" > To: > Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes > > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kurt A. Schumacher" > > > > > Michael, > > > > Swiss authorities delayed the Ecolicht class (Swiss Microlight) for up > > to > 12 month - so schedule Switzerland for (or not before) > > 2005 - with or without a helmet - then. > > > > Sorry about ... EAS is not limited to Experimental, tough. > > > > What about the RSA (France) meeting in 2004? > > > > -Kurt. > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com > [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Michel Verheughe > > To: kitfox-list@matronics.com > > Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes > > > > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Michel Verheughe > > > > "Kurt A. Schumacher" wrote: > > > European Kitfox gathering: With Switzerland having probably the > > > highest Kitfox density in Europe, I propose the EAS Fly-In 2004 > > > again > > > - see http://www.experimental.ch/fly-in/ - afaik there will be as well > > > an Europa type meeting. > > > > Argh! Kurt, an "experimental" meeting, I can't come, I fly > > "microlight!" > The funny thing is that my Kitfox was built and flew a few > > years as an experimental. It was then converted to a "microlight" by a > simple insertion and delete in two registers, the plane is > > still the same. Yet, since that day, one has to wear a helmet in > > Norway > and ... we can't go to Switzerland! Go and understand that! > > :-) > > > > Cheers, > > Michel > > > > do not archive > > > > > > ________________________________ Message 10 ____________________________________ Time: 02:12:32 AM PST US From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" having a good chuckle over that!! Chris do not archive ----- Original Message ----- From: "michel" Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: Re: European Kitfoxes > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > > >===== Original Message From "Kitfox" > >Michel, fortunately in the UK we do not have to wear a helmet > > Oh, but I'll wear it anyway, Chris! You see, I have the nasty habit to bang my > head on the windscreen in despair, each time I can't find my position on the > map. :-) > > Cheers, > Michel > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 11 ____________________________________ Time: 02:12:32 AM PST US From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" Michel, What's this about the 582 is not a reliable engine, most of us here fly with a 582 up front, never let me down, in fact this summer I crossed from mainland UK to Lundy Island and on the return came over about 45 miles of water to see what Wales was like. We regularly cross the channel to France with a 2-stroke up front. I think a 582 is ok so long as you use a good quality oil and check the crank clearances regularly. Rotax recommend a decoke at 50 hrs, we tend to do ours at 100 when we use TTS as there's such a small amount of coking up it's not worth doing at 50. In the summer I use TTS in winter VSK as the mineral content leaves a lubricating film on the crank when she's laid up because of bad weather. Most of the problems I've seen these days tend to be fuel related rather than catastrophic failure. One of our inspectors has nearly 1000 hrs on the same crank and no, he's not mad just seeing how long it will go if looked after. Chris do not archive ----- Original Message ----- From: "michel" Subject: Kitfox-List: European fly-in > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > > >===== Original Message From "Kurt A. Schumacher" > >What about the RSA (France) meeting in 2004? > > I won't have a reliable engine by the next summer, Kurt. But 2005 is > definitively a good year. > > Cheers, > Michel > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 12 ____________________________________ Time: 04:40:00 AM PST US From: michel Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Kitfox" >What's this about the 582 is not a reliable engine, Well Chris, you probably remember that one year ago, I asked this list why the Scandinavian Rotax agent told me I should buy a new engine when mine had only 170 hours. They told me that Rotax recommended to change the crankshaft on my 581 from 1991. But such an overhauling cost as much as a new "blue top." So, I decided to fly the engine safely and hope for the best, keeping an eye on it, thanks to the Conrod Clearance Tester you recommended me, and that I use every ten hours. I also use full synthetic Pennzoil, decokes every 50 hours and make sure the engine never gets too cold or too warm. This being said, I like my engine and so far, it has only be a pleasure. But I have only 70 hours in a plane, where only 50 behind this engine, and I listen to what people tells me. I was told to wait for a better engine before I even think of doing such a voyage. But I thank you for your opinion, it makes me feel more confident. Cheers, Michel ________________________________ Message 13 ____________________________________ Time: 06:59:12 AM PST US From: "Ron Carroll" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Ron Carroll" At last a favorable word regarding the 582s. I've heard so many claim that 582s are terrible engines, not able to make it to 300 hours. I have several friends and neighbors that have put up to 1100 hours with out even de-carboning. In fact, one was still running strong at 1100, but was replaced only because he figured it was starting to show wear when the oil reservoir for the rotary valve was starting to use oil. If it ain't broke don't fix it. It seems the automatic oil injection uses considerably less oil, so little to no carbon buildup. One person that has had good luck with his 582 said he uses Pennzoil outboard engine oil. I have been using the air cooled version. When I think about it, perhaps outboard oil may be a better choice because the engine actually runs cooler than an air cooled engine. More like an outboard??? ----- Original Message ----- From: Kitfox To: kitfox-list@matronics.com Sent: Monday, December 22, 2003 2:11 AM Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" Michel, What's this about the 582 is not a reliable engine, most of us here fly with a 582 up front, never let me down, in fact this summer I crossed from mainland UK to Lundy Island and on the return came over about 45 miles of water to see what Wales was like. We regularly cross the channel to France with a 2-stroke up front. I think a 582 is ok so long as you use a good quality oil and check the crank clearances regularly. Rotax recommend a decoke at 50 hrs, we tend to do ours at 100 when we use TTS as there's such a small amount of coking up it's not worth doing at 50. In the summer I use TTS in winter VSK as the mineral content leaves a lubricating film on the crank when she's laid up because of bad weather. Most of the problems I've seen these days tend to be fuel related rather than catastrophic failure. One of our inspectors has nearly 1000 hrs on the same crank and no, he's not mad just seeing how long it will go if looked after. Chris do not archive ----- Original Message ----- From: "michel" To: Subject: Kitfox-List: European fly-in > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > > > Original Message From "Kurt A. Schumacher" > >What about the RSA (France) meeting in 2004? > > I won't have a reliable engine by the next summer, Kurt. But 2005 is > definitively a good year. > > Cheers, > Michel > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 14 ____________________________________ Time: 06:59:12 AM PST US From: "Ron Carroll" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Ron Carroll" What 'Conrod Clearance Tester', Michel? do not archive ----- Original Message ----- From: michel To: kitfox-list@matronics.com Sent: Monday, December 22, 2003 4:39 AM Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > Original Message From "Kitfox" >What's this about the 582 is not a reliable engine, Well Chris, you probably remember that one year ago, I asked this list why the Scandinavian Rotax agent told me I should buy a new engine when mine had only 170 hours. They told me that Rotax recommended to change the crankshaft on my 581 from 1991. But such an overhauling cost as much as a new "blue top." So, I decided to fly the engine safely and hope for the best, keeping an eye on it, thanks to the Conrod Clearance Tester you recommended me, and that I use every ten hours. I also use full synthetic Pennzoil, decokes every 50 hours and make sure the engine never gets too cold or too warm. This being said, I like my engine and so far, it has only be a pleasure. But I have only 70 hours in a plane, where only 50 behind this engine, and I listen to what people tells me. I was told to wait for a better engine before I even think of doing such a voyage. But I thank you for your opinion, it makes me feel more confident. Cheers, Michel ________________________________ Message 15 ____________________________________ Time: 07:05:27 AM PST US From: Matt Keyes Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Wheel Skis --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Matt Keyes Paul, Do you know James Shnowske? He lives near Mosinee, just south of the airport and flies a red and white Kitfox IV. Also, do you know anyone from EAA chapt 75, North Central Lite Flyers out of Merrill? Where abouts in centeral Wisconsin are you? Contact me off list at keyesmp@yahoo.com. Do Not Archive Matt --------------------------------- ________________________________ Message 16 ____________________________________ Time: 07:12:33 AM PST US From: "Lowell Fitt" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Lowell Fitt" I am not so much disappointed by the non arrival of the cost of shipping, but the total lack of personal communication. When I sent the package, I notified you by personal e-mail of the shipping date and cost, plus the planned delivery date - Two day express - and this from U.S. West coast. What I got in return was absolutely nothing - no personal communication - and no further participation in list discussions for 8 months. Frankly, I was concerned that you had had a serious accident in your airplane. Then when I reminded you of our agreement, I did get a personal note promising action, then again nothing. By the nature of your postings, I presume you are a very busy man. Please consider the matter closed as $22 is not enough to create an international incident. It only came back to trouble me during the discussion of the high cost of importing US components due to exchange rate issues. We on the Western shores have chipped in to help from time to time and a quick note of gratitude might, I think, be a reasonable expectation. Lowell ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kurt A. Schumacher" Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kurt A. Schumacher" > > Michel, > Lowell, > All, > > It happened to be me. Absolute no ignorance or bad will on my side. Sent a letter with about 30 $ - standard mail - after the one > end only complaint a looong time ago. And no reaction from Lowell since. > > Asked for payment details again (address and/or bank) by private mail promptly after his posting to the list - we absolutely can > make this over the (reliable) list - just for the case. Have enough US$ in cash here to send again, but now I prefer a direct > bank-bank wire transfer. > > -Kurt. > > -----Original Message----- > From: owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of michel > To: kitfox-list@matronics.com > Subject: RE: Kitfox-List: European Kitfoxes > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > > >===== Original Message From "Lowell Fitt" Sadly, > >this thread has recalled to memory an experience I had with a list > >member over the last year or so. > > I understand perfectly well your bitterness, Lowell, and I would encourage you > to post the name of that person on the list. After all, on Ebay, users have a > profile of trusthworthiness. > We would like to think that Kitfox owners are all friendly and honest but they > are just people. We don't like to make a fuss and we keep silent. I also have > a couple of frustrations I keep for myself. But I'll write them to you > privately and see what you think of it. I value your opinion. > > Cheers, > Michel > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 17 ____________________________________ Time: 07:14:52 AM PST US From: Matt Keyes Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Paul Seehafer --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Matt Keyes Sorry, should have changed subject heading on Wheel Ski Reply. --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Matt Keyes Paul,Do you know James Shnowske? He lives near Mosinee, just south of the airport and flies a red and white Kitfox IV. Also, do you know anyone from EAA chapt 75, North Central Lite Flyers out of Merrill? Where abouts in centeral Wisconsin are you? Contact me off list at keyesmp@yahoo.com.Do Not ArchiveMatt --------------------------------- ________________________________ Message 18 ____________________________________ Time: 07:23:28 AM PST US From: "Howard Firm" Subject: Kitfox-List: Hey Michel --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Howard Firm" I did find my other tailwheel leaf spring set...Did you still want a leaf from it? Or both of them? You get first dibs!!! Howard Firm 508 12th St. South Virginia MN 55792 ________________________________ Message 19 ____________________________________ Time: 07:29:57 AM PST US From: michel Subject: Kitfox-List: REConrod Clearance Tester --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel >===== Original Message From "Ron Carroll" >What 'Conrod Clearance Tester', Michel? A device you screw in your plug hole, Ron. It measures the sum of the slack in all parts, crankshaft, conrod beadings, piston pin. The tolerance is 0.8 mm and at 220 hours, my 582 reads only 0.25 mm, so I guess I am "healthy." Chris has posted a drawing of the system on the Sportflight site: http://www.sportflight.com/uploads/ConrodBearingTester.jpg Cheers, Michel ________________________________ Message 20 ____________________________________ Time: 09:17:00 AM PST US From: "martin dovey" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582, was European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "martin dovey" Just to reinforce the message, my 582 has nearly 600 hrs on the same crank using TTS. Our local microlite school runs them to 1200 hrs, and that on cheap oil! I am currently planning a trip to Spain behind mine, the only problem being space to store 10 litres of TTS. Cheers and Merry Xmas to Everyone. Martin Dovey Kitfox 3.5 G-BTSV ----- Original Message ----- From: "michel" > >What's this about the 582 is not a reliable engine, > > Well Chris, you probably remember that one year ago, I asked this list why the > Scandinavian Rotax agent told me I should buy a new engine when mine had only > 170 hours. They told me that Rotax recommended to change the crankshaft on my > 581 from 1991. ________________________________ Message 21 ____________________________________ Time: 10:56:28 AM PST US From: Michel Verheughe Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Hey Michel --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Michel Verheughe Howard Firm wrote: > I did find my other tailwheel leaf spring set...Did you still want a leaf > from it? Or both of them? You get first dibs!!! Yes Sir! Thank you Sir! Only the small leaf. The main one is still OK. Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 22 ____________________________________ Time: 11:04:47 AM PST US From: Michel Verheughe Subject: Re: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582 --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Michel Verheughe martin dovey wrote: > Just to reinforce the message, my 582 has nearly 600 hrs on the > same crank using TTS. Wow! Amazing! What did you do at the 300 hours overhauling, Martin? And where do you intend to fly in Spain? Chris, what do you mean by the "French problem?" Is there any limitation for microlights in France? It could be very interesting to make a list of do's and dont's in the European microlight sky. What I already know is: 1) In Denmark, you need to seek first a permission to fly a foreign microlight. Apparently, just a formality. 2) In Italy, you can't leave the country with a microlight. My instructor, who flew to Rome, last year, was refused to cross the Italian-Austian border by the controller. He had to land and clear a few a few papers before leaving the country. Someone should compile these. Something for your web site, Chris? Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 23 ____________________________________ Time: 11:23:09 AM PST US From: "Howard Firm" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Hey Michel --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Howard Firm" I will get it in the mail today. I need your mailing address once again!!! Howard Firm 508 12th St. South Virginia MN 55792 ----- Original Message ----- From: "Michel Verheughe" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Hey Michel > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Michel Verheughe > > Howard Firm wrote: > > I did find my other tailwheel leaf spring set...Did you still want a leaf > > from it? Or both of them? You get first dibs!!! > > Yes Sir! Thank you Sir! Only the small leaf. The main one is still OK. > > Cheers, > Michel > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 24 ____________________________________ Time: 11:57:49 AM PST US From: "Kurt A. Schumacher" Subject: RE: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582 --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kurt A. Schumacher" The French did not allowed - for British experimental aircraft - operated on a "Permit to Fly" - to use the French airspace. One of the reasons you should never ever write EXPERIMENTAL on a European flight plan - you _will_ face any kind of unexpected problems, extremely high liability insurance requirements - 20 Mio $US&/EURO - because EXPERIMENTAL will be treated UNSAFE, UNRELIABLE or EARLY PROTOTYPE, capable to fly in a very limited flight envelope. And the U.K. permit to fly has been interpreted by the French in this way. Homebuilt aircraft on the other hand are normally registered aircraft all over Europe and thr rest of the wolrd, requiring the usual 1 Mio US$/EURO (in certain countries 3 Mio US$/EURO) liability insurance. This is what "we" have. But for curiosity, most authorities require the EXPERIMENTAL marking, tough. Some old pilots said: "Don't ask, just fly it." As far as I am aware none ever complained on a HB-Y (Swiss registered homebuilt aircraft) operated in France - and even if they had made safety landings somewhere in the country yard... Same is true for IFR operations which are not (yet) allowed for homebuilt aircraft in the Swiss airspace. Beside the expensive fuel, Europe can be very ugly for us pilots. -Kurt. -----Original Message----- From: owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Michel Verheughe Subject: Re: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582 --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Michel Verheughe martin dovey wrote: > Just to reinforce the message, my 582 has nearly 600 hrs on the same > crank using TTS. Wow! Amazing! What did you do at the 300 hours overhauling, Martin? And where do you intend to fly in Spain? Chris, what do you mean by the "French problem?" Is there any limitation for microlights in France? It could be very interesting to make a list of do's and dont's in the European microlight sky. What I already know is: 1) In Denmark, you need to seek first a permission to fly a foreign microlight. Apparently, just a formality. 2) In Italy, you can't leave the country with a microlight. My instructor, who flew to Rome, last year, was refused to cross the Italian-Austian border by the controller. He had to land and clear a few a few papers before leaving the country. Someone should compile these. Something for your web site, Chris? Cheers, Michel do not archive ________________________________ Message 25 ____________________________________ Time: 12:20:20 PM PST US From: "Mark Scott" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Mark Scott" What is TTS and VSK? Do Not Archive ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" > > Michel, > What's this about the 582 is not a reliable engine, most of us here fly with > a 582 up front, never let me down, in fact this summer I crossed from > mainland UK to Lundy Island and on the return came over about 45 miles of > water to see what Wales was like. > We regularly cross the channel to France with a 2-stroke up front. > I think a 582 is ok so long as you use a good quality oil and check the > crank clearances regularly. > Rotax recommend a decoke at 50 hrs, we tend to do ours at 100 when we use > TTS as there's such a small amount of coking up it's not worth doing at 50. > In the summer I use TTS in winter VSK as the mineral content leaves a > lubricating film on the crank when she's laid up because of bad weather. > Most of the problems I've seen these days tend to be fuel related rather > than catastrophic failure. > One of our inspectors has nearly 1000 hrs on the same crank and no, he's not > mad just seeing how long it will go if looked after. > Chris > > do not archive > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "michel" > To: > Subject: Kitfox-List: European fly-in > > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > > > > >===== Original Message From "Kurt A. Schumacher" > > > >What about the RSA (France) meeting in 2004? > > > > I won't have a reliable engine by the next summer, Kurt. But 2005 is > > definitively a good year. > > > > Cheers, > > Michel > > > > do not archive > > > > > > ________________________________ Message 26 ____________________________________ Time: 12:25:09 PM PST US From: "Mark Scott" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: REConrod Clearance Tester --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Mark Scott" Where did you get this tester? Is this a Rotax recommended item? ----- Original Message ----- From: "michel" Subject: Kitfox-List: REConrod Clearance Tester > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > > >===== Original Message From "Ron Carroll" > >What 'Conrod Clearance Tester', Michel? > > A device you screw in your plug hole, Ron. It measures the sum of the slack in > all parts, crankshaft, conrod beadings, piston pin. The tolerance is 0.8 mm > and at 220 hours, my 582 reads only 0.25 mm, so I guess I am "healthy." > > Chris has posted a drawing of the system on the Sportflight site: > http://www.sportflight.com/uploads/ConrodBearingTester.jpg > > Cheers, > Michel > > ________________________________ Message 27 ____________________________________ Time: 12:58:19 PM PST US From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" TTS is Castrol fully synthetic also known as LA454 (I think that's the right way round for the numbers) VSX is shell semi-synthetic oil which has a proportion of mineral oil. One of the problems with fully synthetic is it is hydroscopic which, if the aircraft is laid up for long periods the theory is it could cause pitting on the crank. One of the advantages of mineral oil is it coats the bearings with a protective film. The theory is that a semi-synthetic oil is useful when the a/c is not used as frequently as the mineral oil provides the protection-or that is my understanding, fair to say some of the guys on the news group are much more up to speed on the technical side of things with oils. All I know is my crank is 10 yrs old, the a/c has spent most of its life outside and it's still good as new - the proof of the pie so to speak. Chris ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Scott" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Mark Scott" > > What is TTS and VSK? > > Do Not Archive > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "Kitfox" > To: > Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: European fly-in > > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" > > > > Michel, > > What's this about the 582 is not a reliable engine, most of us here fly > with > > a 582 up front, never let me down, in fact this summer I crossed from > > mainland UK to Lundy Island and on the return came over about 45 miles of > > water to see what Wales was like. > > We regularly cross the channel to France with a 2-stroke up front. > > I think a 582 is ok so long as you use a good quality oil and check the > > crank clearances regularly. > > Rotax recommend a decoke at 50 hrs, we tend to do ours at 100 when we use > > TTS as there's such a small amount of coking up it's not worth doing at > 50. > > In the summer I use TTS in winter VSK as the mineral content leaves a > > lubricating film on the crank when she's laid up because of bad weather. > > Most of the problems I've seen these days tend to be fuel related rather > > than catastrophic failure. > > One of our inspectors has nearly 1000 hrs on the same crank and no, he's > not > > mad just seeing how long it will go if looked after. > > Chris > > > > do not archive > > > > ----- Original Message ----- > > From: "michel" > > To: > > Subject: Kitfox-List: European fly-in > > > > > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: michel > > > > > > >===== Original Message From "Kurt A. Schumacher" > > > > > >What about the RSA (France) meeting in 2004? > > > > > > I won't have a reliable engine by the next summer, Kurt. But 2005 is > > > definitively a good year. > > > > > > Cheers, > > > Michel > > > > > > do not archive > > > > > > > > > > > > ________________________________ Message 28 ____________________________________ Time: 01:02:05 PM PST US From: "Kitfox" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582 --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kitfox" I think that's a good idea with the web site, or at least a link to the relevant sites. The French have been a bit awkward in the past but as I understand things, at the moment they are allowing permit a/c to fly in their airspace. Like Kurt says though be careful as the insurance premiums are based on an old view that experimental aircraft are unreliable which simply isn't true these days, lets face it, when was the last time you heard of a kit built aircraft wiping out half a town!! Chris ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kurt A. Schumacher" Subject: RE: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582 > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Kurt A. Schumacher" > > The French did not allowed - for British experimental aircraft - operated on a "Permit to Fly" - to use the French airspace. > > One of the reasons you should never ever write EXPERIMENTAL on a European flight plan - you _will_ face any kind of unexpected > problems, extremely high liability insurance requirements - 20 Mio $US&/EURO - because EXPERIMENTAL will be treated UNSAFE, > UNRELIABLE or EARLY PROTOTYPE, capable to fly in a very limited flight envelope. And the U.K. permit to fly has been interpreted by > the French in this way. > > Homebuilt aircraft on the other hand are normally registered aircraft all over Europe and thr rest of the wolrd, requiring the usual > 1 Mio US$/EURO (in certain countries 3 Mio US$/EURO) liability insurance. This is what "we" have. But for curiosity, most > authorities require the EXPERIMENTAL marking, tough. > > Some old pilots said: "Don't ask, just fly it." As far as I am aware none ever complained on a HB-Y (Swiss registered homebuilt > aircraft) operated in France - and even if they had made safety landings somewhere in the country yard... Same is true for IFR > operations which are not (yet) allowed for homebuilt aircraft in the Swiss airspace. > > Beside the expensive fuel, Europe can be very ugly for us pilots. > > -Kurt. > > -----Original Message----- > From: owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Michel Verheughe > To: kitfox-list@matronics.com > Subject: Re: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582 > > > --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Michel Verheughe > > martin dovey wrote: > > Just to reinforce the message, my 582 has nearly 600 hrs on the same > > crank using TTS. > Wow! Amazing! What did you do at the 300 hours overhauling, Martin? And where do you intend to fly in Spain? > > Chris, what do you mean by the "French problem?" Is there any limitation for microlights in France? It could be very interesting to > make a list of do's and dont's in the European microlight sky. What I already know is: > 1) In Denmark, you need to seek first a permission to fly a foreign microlight. Apparently, just a formality. > 2) In Italy, you can't leave the country with a microlight. My instructor, who flew to Rome, last year, was refused to cross the > Italian-Austian border by the controller. He had to land and clear a few a few papers before leaving the country. > > Someone should compile these. Something for your web site, Chris? > > Cheers, > Michel > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 29 ____________________________________ Time: 01:35:51 PM PST US From: "martin dovey" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List:Rotax 582 --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "martin dovey" At 300 it had a complete strip down to the crank which was found to be 2 degs out of line between front & rear (possible prop strike by the previous owner). The crank was straightened in a press, engine de-coked & re-built. (The only new parts apart from plugs have been the carb boots) We are buying a villa near Valencia! but don't tell anyone, we have enough friends already. Martin Dovey Kitfox 3.5 G-BTSV ----- Original Message ----- From: "Michel Verheughe" > > Just to reinforce the message, my 582 has nearly 600 hrs on the > > same crank using TTS. > Wow! Amazing! What did you do at the 300 hours overhauling, Martin? And where > do you intend to fly in Spain? > ________________________________ Message 30 ____________________________________ Time: 02:10:13 PM PST US From: Michel Verheughe Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Conrod Clearance Tester --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Michel Verheughe Mark Scott wrote: > Where did you get this tester? Is this a Rotax recommended item? On Chris' advice, I bought mine from Skydrive, the UK Rotax distributor. I guess, it is a Rotax recommendation then. I purchased it via the internet at: http://skydrive.co.uk/sd_tc_cc.htm I was pleased with their service and speed of delivery. See also: http://www.ultralightnews.com/alerts1/alert422.htm From reading this, I realized that, if I measure the clearance every ten hours (time to check the plugs, anyway) and plot the reading on a diagram, I'll be able to figure out in advance when my "big end" is giving in. Warning: as a novice with little experience, I have no certainty, I am merely listening and learning. I have no proof of the efficiency of this tool. Cheers, Michel ________________________________ Message 31 ____________________________________ Time: 03:23:47 PM PST US From: "Tom Tomlin" Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: Finished at last --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Tom Tomlin" Dave, that looks mighty fine...I'm sure you're pleased with such a nice looking bird...er...cow... I like Wendy's sense of humor...... Tom Tomlin IV Speedster Greeley Colorado Do Not Archive ________________________________ Message 32 ____________________________________ Time: 05:30:57 PM PST US From: "Jack Seaford" Subject: Kitfox-List: First Flight --> Kitfox-List message posted by: "Jack Seaford" I flew my 4-1200 today for the first flight. Wow, Wow, Wow, I was very excited with the performance, that little 912 awwwwwwwed me. I love the plane but have a few minor problems. To keep the ball centered in straight and level flight, you must hold a little right rudder, also you must hold a little right aileron. Do I need to make a rudder trim for the rudder and if so what size and where to place on rudder? To fix the aileron problem should I lower forward right wing a couple of turns? Thanks for your help Jack Seaford N170NH ________________________________ Message 33 ____________________________________ Time: 07:52:14 PM PST US From: Fred Shiple Subject: Re: Kitfox-List: First Flight --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Fred Shiple Way to go, Jack. You've helped keep the rest of us building. Fred