---------------------------------------------------------- Kolb-List Digest Archive --- Total Messages Posted Mon 04/17/06: 38 ---------------------------------------------------------- Today's Message Index: ---------------------- 1. 03:26 AM - Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (DrHook) 2. 06:00 AM - Re: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (Richard Girard) 3. 06:12 AM - Re: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (Larry Bourne) 4. 06:15 AM - Re: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (Larry Bourne) 5. 06:16 AM - Re: RV-6 (Denny Rowe) 6. 06:25 AM - Re: Re: Mounment Valley Fly-in (John Hauck) 7. 07:39 AM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (Dave & Eve Pelletier) 8. 08:17 AM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (Richard & Martha Neilsen) 9. 08:25 AM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (WillUribe@aol.com) 10. 08:26 AM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (robert bean) 11. 08:37 AM - Re: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips (Jack B. Hart) 12. 08:48 AM - Monument Valley (Dave & Eve Pelletier) 13. 08:48 AM - Re: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips (John Hauck) 14. 08:58 AM - Re: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips (Gene Ledbetter) 15. 09:11 AM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (Dave & Eve Pelletier) 16. 09:34 AM - no parts (boyd) 17. 09:44 AM - Re: no parts (John Hauck) 18. 10:49 AM - Re: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (Robert Noyer) 19. 12:18 PM - Manual In-cockpit Mixture Control for 2-stroke Engines (jratcli256@AOL.COM) 20. 12:41 PM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (robert bean) 21. 01:17 PM - Re: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips (John Jung) 22. 02:32 PM - Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (planecrazzzy) 23. 02:40 PM - Re: FireStar II sunset flight (pat ladd) 24. 03:10 PM - Re: Test Flying (mike moulai) 25. 04:27 PM - Re: no parts (Larry Bourne) 26. 04:55 PM - Re: Monument Valley (Larry Bourne) 27. 05:05 PM - Re: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (robert bean) 28. 05:45 PM - Re: Manual In-cockpit Mixture Control for 2-stroke Engines (Frcole@aol.com) 29. 06:12 PM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (possums) 30. 06:21 PM - Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (planecrazzzy) 31. 07:06 PM - Re: Manual In-cockpit Mixture Control for 2-stroke Engines (N27SB@AOL.COM) 32. 07:06 PM - Re: Airworthiness Certificate (Richard & Martha Neilsen) 33. 07:08 PM - Re: Mounment Valley Photos (WhiskeyVictor36@aol.com) 34. 07:15 PM - Re: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar (N27SB@aol.com) 35. 07:48 PM - Re: HKS (oneaviator) 36. 08:04 PM - Re: Re: HKS (John Hauck) 37. 08:08 PM - Monument Valley from satelite (John Jung) 38. 11:46 PM - Re: Mounment Valley Photos (possums) ________________________________ Message 1 _____________________________________ Time: 03:26:29 AM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar From: "DrHook" --> Kolb-List message posted by: "DrHook" Ya, But I got the Golden Egg!!! This little girl was about to grab it, so I pushed her down, and grabbed it myself [Laughing] OK, OK your right Mike, But you only seen the good side of it. On the inside, I was able to take a couple of strips of 4oz. fibrglass cloth and 30 min epoxy on 2 of the real bad rips in it and it seems like it is going to work. I cleaned the suface with acetone, then sanded and the epoxy has really bonded. There are going to be some pretty bad gaps, on the outside though. What would you suggest? Can I use some kind of bondo? I am going to re-inforce the area's where it attach'es to the fuse cage using the fiberglass-epoxy strip and I guess I better do the same around the Top where I will need to attach the new short windsheild. But still, Is there a parts list for the Firestar from Kolb? Thanks for the nudge, Mike and Bob. I couldn't find spell check here, So please, grade me on the curve :D -------- Kolb Firestar owner, Rebuild-Recover job at hand. Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=28877#28877 ________________________________ Message 2 _____________________________________ Time: 06:00:04 AM PST US From: "Richard Girard" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Richard Girard" Dr. , When doing fiberglass work, the rule is that you can put epoxy over polyester, but not polyester over epoxy. Bondo is polyester. You can use it, but eventually it is going to bubble up and then start to flake off taking your paint job with it. Better to mix up what is known as heavy micro. Order Micro ballons from Spruce, Wick's or a local supplier. Mix up a small batch of epoxy (1/4 cup max) add micro balloons until it has the consistancy of stiff cream (always wear a face mask when using micro balloons, they're tiny glass bubbles) and apply with a squeegee. Put on a nicely skimmed, thin layer. The next day, sand, and repeat until you have the surface you're ready to prime. If you have lots of pin holes (you WILL) use pure epoxy applied with a single edge razor blade as a squeegee to fill them. This may take several applications, too. If you ever wondered about it, it generally takes longer to fill and smooth a Long EZ or Varieze than it does to build the entire stucture of the aircraft, it just depends on what you want the finished product to look like. On 4/17/06, DrHook wrote: > > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "DrHook" > > Ya, But I got the Golden Egg!!! This little girl was about to grab it, so > I pushed her down, and grabbed it myself [Laughing] > OK, OK your right Mike, But you only seen the good side of it. > On the inside, > I was able to take a couple of strips of 4oz. fibrglass cloth and 30 min > epoxy on 2 of the real bad rips in it and it seems like it is going to work. > I cleaned the suface with acetone, then sanded and the epoxy has really > bonded. > There are going to be some pretty bad gaps, on the outside though. > What would you suggest? Can I use some kind of bondo? > I am going to re-inforce the area's where it attach'es to the fuse cage > using the fiberglass-epoxy strip and I guess I better do the same around the > Top where I will need to attach the new short windsheild. > But still, Is there a parts list for the Firestar from Kolb? > > Thanks for the nudge, Mike and Bob. > I couldn't find spell check here, So please, grade me on the curve :D > > -------- > Kolb Firestar owner, Rebuild-Recover job at hand. > > > Read this topic online here: > > http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=3D28877#28877 > > -- Rick Girard "Pining for a home on the Range" ________________________________ Message 3 _____________________________________ Time: 06:12:16 AM PST US From: "Larry Bourne" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Larry Bourne" Don't use Bondo. Poly-Fiber makes a product called "Super Fil" that is a lightweight epoxy/microballoon mix that sands out to a feather edge and is quite strong - but not to be used where structural strength is needed. You could also order microballoons from System 3 or Gougeon (sp ??) and mix your own. For structural repairs, I'd use silica or chopped glass as a filler, or even, since it'll probably be painted, wood flour. I haven't worked much with the 30 minute epoxies, mainly because of my understanding of their being less than ideal over long term or some conditions of humidity/moisture. System 3 has some excellent literature available. Jim and Dondi will probably have Super Fil; for other products, I've been using Jamestown Distributors in RI with pleasure and success for some time. Lar. Larry Bourne Palm Springs, CA Building Kolb Mk III N78LB Vamoose www.gogittum.com ----- Original Message ----- From: "DrHook" Sent: Monday, April 17, 2006 3:22 AM Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "DrHook" > > Ya, But I got the Golden Egg!!! This little girl was about to grab it, so > I pushed her down, and grabbed it myself [Laughing] > OK, OK your right Mike, But you only seen the good side of it. > On the inside, > I was able to take a couple of strips of 4oz. fibrglass cloth and 30 min > epoxy on 2 of the real bad rips in it and it seems like it is going to > work. > I cleaned the suface with acetone, then sanded and the epoxy has really > bonded. > There are going to be some pretty bad gaps, on the outside though. > What would you suggest? Can I use some kind of bondo? > I am going to re-inforce the area's where it attach'es to the fuse cage > using the fiberglass-epoxy strip and I guess I better do the same around > the Top where I will need to attach the new short windsheild. > But still, Is there a parts list for the Firestar from Kolb? > > Thanks for the nudge, Mike and Bob. > I couldn't find spell check here, So please, grade me on the curve :D > > -------- > Kolb Firestar owner, Rebuild-Recover job at hand. > > > Read this topic online here: > > http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=28877#28877 > > > ________________________________ Message 4 _____________________________________ Time: 06:15:43 AM PST US From: "Larry Bourne" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Larry Bourne" There ya have it.......more complete answer than mine. This answer appeared just after I clicked the 'send' button. Thanks, Richard. Do not Archive. Larry Bourne Palm Springs, CA Building Kolb Mk III N78LB Vamoose www.gogittum.com ----- Original Message ----- From: "Richard Girard" Sent: Monday, April 17, 2006 5:57 AM Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Richard Girard" > > Dr. , When doing fiberglass work, the rule is that you can put epoxy over > polyester, but not polyester over epoxy. Bondo is polyester. You can use > it, > but eventually it is going to bubble up and then start to flake off taking > your paint job with it. Better to mix up what is known as heavy micro. > Order > Micro ballons from Spruce, Wick's or a local supplier. Mix up a small > batch > of epoxy (1/4 cup max) add micro balloons until it has the consistancy of > stiff cream (always wear a face mask when using micro balloons, they're > tiny > glass bubbles) and apply with a squeegee. Put on a nicely skimmed, thin > layer. The next day, sand, and repeat until you have the surface you're > ready to prime. If you have lots of pin holes (you WILL) use pure epoxy > applied with a single edge razor blade as a squeegee to fill them. This > may > take several applications, too. > If you ever wondered about it, it generally takes longer to fill and > smooth > a Long EZ or Varieze than it does to build the entire stucture of the > aircraft, it just depends on what you want the finished product to look > like. > > On 4/17/06, DrHook wrote: >> >> --> Kolb-List message posted by: "DrHook" >> >> Ya, But I got the Golden Egg!!! This little girl was about to grab it, so >> I pushed her down, and grabbed it myself [Laughing] >> OK, OK your right Mike, But you only seen the good side of it. >> On the inside, >> I was able to take a couple of strips of 4oz. fibrglass cloth and 30 min >> epoxy on ________________________________ Message 5 _____________________________________ Time: 06:16:38 AM PST US From: "Denny Rowe" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: RV-6 --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Denny Rowe" UUGH!! I can only hope that a deal like this comes around about ten years from now!! If you have never had a ride in an RV, you really are missing out on one of lifes finer pleasures. Denny Rowe, MK-3 ----- Original Message ----- From: "Richard Pike" Sent: Sunday, April 16, 2006 4:42 PM Subject: Kolb-List: RV-6 > --> Kolb-List message posted by: Richard Pike > > I have noticed from time to time that Kolbers sometimes have other > airplanes, and often they are RV's. > I know of an RV6 project that is just going into Trade-a-plane this > week, it is a local project airplane that I have done the EAA technical > inspections on, and the workmanship is at least professional, and almost > flawless. The tailfeathers are done, and the wings are done. The kit is > complete. It includes a new from the factory Lycoming 180 in the box, > and they are asking $30,000 with the engine, and the engine by itself is > worth $20. There is other stuff, but I don't have all the details. If > you have been thinking of an RV project, this would be a good one. > > Contact me off list, and I will give you the email or phone # of who to > call. > > Richard Pike > MKIII N420P (420ldPoops) > richard@bcchapel.org > > do not archive > > > -- > > ________________________________ Message 6 _____________________________________ Time: 06:25:18 AM PST US From: "John Hauck" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Mounment Valley Fly-in --> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Hauck" | I have been looking in the Archieves on Info about Monument Valley. | | Ed Diebel Hi Ed: Glad you are coming out to the flyin. Here is a link to Gouldings which will give you plenty info. They have a very nice lodge overlooking the valley. Resturant is right next door. http://www.gouldings.com/english/index.htm If you decide to camp, there is a nice camp ground with bath house, store, and indoor pool. Also laundrymat. Tours are available for the valley and local area. There is a nice service station and convenience store, plus a trading post/grocery store on site. Let us know if you need any more info. john h ________________________________ Message 7 _____________________________________ Time: 07:39:04 AM PST US From: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Robert, Ain't any reluctance, but there ain't any FAA guys here to do it. At this time 10 days ago, there wasn't a DAR in Arizona certified to inspect ELSA. That's the problem. This inspector just got certified last monday. AzDave Do Not Archive ----- Original Message ----- From: "robert bean" Sent: Sunday, April 16, 2006 5:09 PM Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate > --> Kolb-List message posted by: robert bean > > Not wanting to sound like a broken record here BUT......... > Why the reluctance to have a genyoowine FAA guy do it for free? > > I'd feel ripped off too. > -BB do not archive > > On 16, Apr 2006, at 12:02 PM, Dave & Eve Pelletier wrote: > >> --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" >> >> >> >> Got a little but "Unjazzed" when he gave me the invoice - $450 for the >> inspection. Highway robbery as far as I'm concerned. Especially when >> you consider that he inspected two of us at the same location. He got >> there a bit before nine, inspected both planes and did the paperwork >> and was gone by eleven. $900 for a couple of hours on Saturday >> morning - not bad. But maybe I'm being unfair because he had to do at >> least 15 minutes work for each of us to get the paperwork ready before >> he left home. Guys, don't tell your kids to be lawyers, tell them to >> become DAR's. Oh well, a one-time fee, but still I hate to feel >> ripped off. >> >> AzDave >> >> Do Not Archive >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> > > > ________________________________ Message 8 _____________________________________ Time: 08:17:40 AM PST US From: "Richard & Martha Neilsen" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Richard & Martha Neilsen" You guys keep saying ELSA. What am I missing? Couldn't you get your plane registered as a Amateur Built Experimental? Is there really a different registration process for ELSA? Is there a downs side to registering it as a Experimental. The only limitation I can think of is that you can't use a Experimental for profit. The only exception is the temporary use of Experimental for training ELSA. It seems there would be allot more DARs for experimental and maybe even some FAA guys in your area. I suppose that there are all levels of quality of DARs but you would expect if you paid for a inspection you would get a good one. Again there are all levels of FAA guys but I got just what I paid for when the FAA guy inspected my Experimental. The guy made sure the numbers matched on everything that need to match and signed off. I couldn't get him to even look at my work. Rick Neilsen Redrive VW powered MKIIIc ----- Original Message ----- From: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Sent: Monday, April 17, 2006 10:37 AM Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" > > > Robert, > > Ain't any reluctance, but there ain't any FAA guys here to do it. At > this time 10 days ago, there wasn't a DAR in Arizona certified to inspect > ELSA. That's the problem. This inspector just got certified last monday. > > AzDave > Do Not Archive > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "robert bean" > To: > Sent: Sunday, April 16, 2006 5:09 PM > Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate > > >> --> Kolb-List message posted by: robert bean >> >> Not wanting to sound like a broken record here BUT......... >> Why the reluctance to have a genyoowine FAA guy do it for free? >> >> I'd feel ripped off too. >> -BB do not archive >> >> On 16, Apr 2006, at 12:02 PM, Dave & Eve Pelletier wrote: >> >>> --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" >>> >>> >>> >>> Got a little but "Unjazzed" when he gave me the invoice - $450 for the >>> inspection. Highway robbery as far as I'm concerned. Especially when >>> you consider that he inspected two of us at the same location. He got >>> there a bit before nine, inspected both planes and did the paperwork >>> and was gone by eleven. $900 for a couple of hours on Saturday >>> morning - not bad. But maybe I'm being unfair because he had to do at >>> least 15 minutes work for each of us to get the paperwork ready before >>> he left home. Guys, don't tell your kids to be lawyers, tell them to >>> become DAR's. Oh well, a one-time fee, but still I hate to feel >>> ripped off. >>> >>> AzDave >>> >>> Do Not Archive >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> > > > ________________________________ Message 9 _____________________________________ Time: 08:25:28 AM PST US From: WillUribe@aol.com Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: WillUribe@aol.com I was told DARs now have to buy liability insurance that is why the inspection fees have gone way up. Most of the DARs are retired FAA inspectors so they rather give the business to there retired buddies. Do Not Archive ________________________________ Message 10 ____________________________________ Time: 08:26:15 AM PST US From: robert bean Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: robert bean Dave, doesn't look like good distribution of resources. There have to be more experimentals in progress in AZ than around here. I think the local FAA guy here does a fairly large radius of ops. Anyway, congrats on getting it behind you and enjoy your legal Kolb. -BB do not archive MkIII suzuki 41hrs nearly ready to blast off for the first ride of the season as soon as I replace one lumpy feeling wheel bearing. On 17, Apr 2006, at 10:37 AM, Dave & Eve Pelletier wrote: > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" > > > Robert, > > Ain't any reluctance, but there ain't any FAA guys here to do it. > At > this time 10 days ago, there wasn't a DAR in Arizona certified to > inspect > ELSA. That's the problem. This inspector just got certified last > monday. > > AzDave > Do Not Archive > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "robert bean" > To: > Sent: Sunday, April 16, 2006 5:09 PM > Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate > > >> --> Kolb-List message posted by: robert bean >> >> Not wanting to sound like a broken record here BUT......... >> Why the reluctance to have a genyoowine FAA guy do it for free? >> >> I'd feel ripped off too. >> -BB do not archive >> >> On 16, Apr 2006, at 12:02 PM, Dave & Eve Pelletier wrote: >> >>> --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" >>> >>> >>> >>> Got a little but "Unjazzed" when he gave me the invoice - $450 for >>> the >>> inspection. Highway robbery as far as I'm concerned. Especially >>> when >>> you consider that he inspected two of us at the same location. He >>> got >>> there a bit before nine, inspected both planes and did the paperwork >>> and was gone by eleven. $900 for a couple of hours on Saturday >>> morning - not bad. But maybe I'm being unfair because he had to do >>> at >>> least 15 minutes work for each of us to get the paperwork ready >>> before >>> he left home. Guys, don't tell your kids to be lawyers, tell them to >>> become DAR's. Oh well, a one-time fee, but still I hate to feel >>> ripped off. >>> >>> AzDave >>> >>> Do Not Archive >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> > > ________________________________ Message 11 ____________________________________ Time: 08:37:49 AM PST US From: "Jack B. Hart" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Jack B. Hart" At 09:23 AM 4/16/06 -0500, you wrote: >--> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Hauck" > >Here are two clips of John W and Ken K departing Paradise City. Click >on the AVI files to view the clips: > >http://www.c-gate.net/~ppetty/Hauck%20Stuff/S&F%202006/ > John, None of my media viewers will play your clips. What viewer should I be using? Thanks Jack B. Hart FF004 Winchester, IN do not archive ________________________________ Message 12 ____________________________________ Time: 08:48:03 AM PST US From: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Subject: Kolb-List: Monument Valley --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Guys, I just made my reservations from the 17th thru the 21st and I'm in space 11. There's a bunch of Airstream people there around the same time so it's probably best to make reservations asap. I couldn't get space 48 which is what I wanted but space 11 is near the tent camping area - just over the hill like we were a couple of years ago. Spaces 10 on down are still available. I think spaces 12 on up will be available if anyone is coming in late, like on the 19th or later because the airstream people are leaving around that time. Phone number is 435 727-3235. I asked if the tent guys need to make reservations and his answer was kinda wishy washy. I don't think the tenters HAVE to have a reservation but he said he'd like them to call first - whatever that means. Oh, and when you make your reservations, tell him you're with the Kolb bunch. AzDave ________________________________ Message 13 ____________________________________ Time: 08:48:20 AM PST US From: "John Hauck" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips --> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Hauck" When I click on the file, up comes Windows Media Player. Might try Quicktime and/or Real Player. john h DO NOT ARCHIVE ________________________________ Message 14 ____________________________________ Time: 08:58:22 AM PST US From: Gene Ledbetter Subject: Re: Kolb-List: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips --> Kolb-List message posted by: Gene Ledbetter Jack, It played with Real Player on my Mac. Gene Ledbetter Cincinnati Firefly On Apr 17, 2006, at 12:41 PM, Jack B. Hart wrote: > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Jack B. Hart" > > > At 09:23 AM 4/16/06 -0500, you wrote: >> --> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Hauck" >> >> Here are two clips of John W and Ken K departing Paradise City. >> Click >> on the AVI files to view the clips: >> >> http://www.c-gate.net/~ppetty/Hauck%20Stuff/S&F%202006/ >> > > John, > > None of my media viewers will play your clips. > > What viewer should I be using? > > Thanks > > Jack B. Hart FF004 > Winchester, IN > > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 15 ____________________________________ Time: 09:11:09 AM PST US From: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Richard & Martha Neilsen" > > You guys keep saying ELSA. What am I missing? Couldn't you get your plane > registered as a Amateur Built Experimental? Is there really a different > registration process for ELSA? Is there a downs side to registering it as > a > Experimental. If you didn't build the plane, then you can't register it as Experimental - Amateur Built since you didn't build 51% of it. Also, the difference is that you can do all of the inspections on your plane after you attend the 16-hour Maintenance course if it is registered ELSA and, (here is the important part) the next owner can also attend the 16-hour course and do all of the maintenance and inspections. Sure, if it is registered Experimental Amateur Buit, you can do the maintenance and inspections since you built it. But the next owner has to have an A & E guy do the annuals and maintenance and that can get expensive. Therefore, your plane becomes more valuable if/when you want to sell it if it is registered ELSA. > It seems there would be allot more DARs for experimental and maybe even some > FAA guys in your area. Yes there are. But for some reason, known only to somebody sitting behind a grey desk somewhere, they can inspect Amateur Built but not ELSA. I guess it's because if it is registered ELSA it flies different. > I suppose that there are all levels of quality of DARs but you would > expect > if you paid for a inspection you would get a good one. Again there are all > levels of FAA guys but I got just what I paid for when the FAA guy > inspected > my Experimental. The guy made sure the numbers matched on everything that > need to match and signed off. I couldn't get him to even look at my work. Yes, I still think I paid an outrageous fee but he did do a thorough inspection. He spent about 45 minutes on just the plane. AzDave > > > ________________________________ Message 16 ____________________________________ Time: 09:34:53 AM PST US From: "boyd" Subject: Kolb-List: no parts --> Kolb-List message posted by: "boyd" When I ordered my parts last week I was told that they were in stock and would be delivered by Friday.. Called this morning and was told they had no parts in stock and they would have to come from Austria. 2 to 3 months... called another company and ordered the part and they assured me they had it in stock. THIS FRIDAY FER SURE.. Kind of sounds like someone else on the list... Boyd Do not archive. ________________________________ Message 17 ____________________________________ Time: 09:44:19 AM PST US From: "John Hauck" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: no parts --> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Hauck" Boyd: Check with Ronnie Smith at: http://www.flysmla.com/home.htm john h mkIII DO NOT ARCHIVE ________________________________ Message 18 ____________________________________ Time: 10:49:25 AM PST US From: Robert Noyer Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar --> Kolb-List message posted by: Robert Noyer If you'd need a lot of Bondo, it weighs a lot..use micro balloons which cost more but weigh next to nothing. regards, Bob N. http://www.angelfire.com/rpg/ronoy/ do not archive ________________________________ Message 19 ____________________________________ Time: 12:18:59 PM PST US From: jratcli256@AOL.COM Subject: Kolb-List: Manual In-cockpit Mixture Control for 2-stroke Engines --> Kolb-List message posted by: jratcli256@aol.com Am moving along with my Mark 3X and need to start thinking of what Engine to purchase. Was looking at the Rotax 582, but having to change jetting, limits the range of altitudes I will be able to fly at. In a web search looking for information on alt. compensating carbs, I came across the Green Sky Adventures site about the HACman Mixture Control. Looks interesting - has anyone any experience with this setup or heard about it? If interested check it out at http://www.greenskyadventures.com/HACmanFAQ.htm John Ratcliffe jratcli256@aol.com ________________________________ Message 20 ____________________________________ Time: 12:41:35 PM PST US From: robert bean Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: robert bean According to the regs for amateur experimental you do not have to be the sole builder. If one or two guys previous to you built their contribution and documented it, that is all that is required. I rebuilt one wing and repaired a cage and I am the manufacturer of record. -BB -also having a dusty old A&P ticket helps On 17, Apr 2006, at 12:10 PM, Dave & Eve Pelletier wrote: > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" > > > > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Richard & Martha Neilsen" > >> >> You guys keep saying ELSA. What am I missing? Couldn't you get your >> plane >> registered as a Amateur Built Experimental? Is there really a >> different >> registration process for ELSA? Is there a downs side to registering >> it as >> a >> Experimental. > > If you didn't build the plane, then you can't register it as > Experimental - > Amateur Built since you didn't build 51% of it. > > Also, the difference is that you can do all of the inspections on your > plane > after you attend the 16-hour Maintenance course if it is registered > ELSA > and, (here is the important part) the next owner can also attend the > 16-hour > course and do all of the maintenance and inspections. Sure, if it is > registered Experimental Amateur Buit, you can do the maintenance and > inspections since you built it. But the next owner has to have an A & > E guy > do the annuals and maintenance and that can get expensive. Therefore, > your > plane becomes more valuable if/when you want to sell it if it is > registered > ELSA. > >> It seems there would be allot more DARs for experimental and maybe >> even > some >> FAA guys in your area. > > Yes there are. But for some reason, known only to somebody sitting > behind a > grey desk somewhere, they can inspect Amateur Built but not ELSA. I > guess > it's because if it is registered ELSA it flies different. > >> I suppose that there are all levels of quality of DARs but you would >> expect >> if you paid for a inspection you would get a good one. Again there >> are all >> levels of FAA guys but I got just what I paid for when the FAA guy >> inspected >> my Experimental. The guy made sure the numbers matched on everything >> that >> need to match and signed off. I couldn't get him to even look at my >> work. > > Yes, I still think I paid an outrageous fee but he did do a thorough > inspection. He spent about 45 minutes on just the plane. > > AzDave > > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> > > ________________________________ Message 21 ____________________________________ Time: 01:17:15 PM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: S&F 2006 Photos and Video Clips From: "John Jung" --> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Jung" > > John, > > None of my media viewers will play your clips. > > What viewer should I be using? > > Thanks > > Jack B. Hart FF004 > Winchester, IN > > do not archive Jack, If my memory serves me today, you are using a Mac and Quicktime. Anyway, that what I use, and I view the video clips that John posted with Windows Media Components for QuickTime. It can be downloaded for free at: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/player/wmcomponents.mspx -------- John Jung Firestar II N6163J Surprise, AZ Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=28979#28979 ________________________________ Message 22 ____________________________________ Time: 02:32:11 PM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar From: "planecrazzzy" --> Kolb-List message posted by: "planecrazzzy" Hi Chris, The poor little girl....next time she'll have a "club" in her basket... Why are you using Epoxy....instead of Fiberglass "Resin" w/hardener After you do all you can with the Fiberglass and the resin and you have things close...their are some fillers like Bondo to finish it up.....I think I would grind that epoxy out of there....and do all the repairs with fiberglass ...that would be the strongest...I think the epoxy would separate after some flexing... Some repairs call for "chopping" up the fiberglass cloth....kind of laying it down like that plywood stuff.... Parts List...? Call Kolb... Gotta Fly... Mike in MN DrHook wrote: > Ya, But I got the Golden Egg!!! This little girl was about to grab it, so I pushed her down, and grabbed it myself [Laughing] > OK, OK your right Mike, But you only seen the good side of it. > On the inside, > I was able to take a couple of strips of 4oz. fibrglass cloth and 30 min epoxy on 2 of the real bad rips in it and it seems like it is going to work. > I cleaned the suface with acetone, then sanded and the epoxy has really bonded. > There are going to be some pretty bad gaps, on the outside though. > What would you suggest? Can I use some kind of bondo? > I am going to re-inforce the area's where it attach'es to the fuse cage using the fiberglass-epoxy strip and I guess I better do the same around the Top where I will need to attach the new short windsheild. > But still, Is there a parts list for the Firestar from Kolb? > > Thanks for the nudge, Mike and Bob. > I couldn't find spell check here, So please, grade me on the curve :D -------- .. .. .. .. .Do not archive Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=28988#28988 ________________________________ Message 23 ____________________________________ Time: 02:40:15 PM PST US From: "pat ladd" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: FireStar II sunset flight --> Kolb-List message posted by: "pat ladd" US UL's may fly 30 minutes after sunset with appropriate anticollision light system.>> Hi John, thats about the same as here though I have landed gliders by the light of car headlamps on occasion. If an ultralight is built overweight then it is possible that it can be registered as a Light Airplane and they operate under a whole different set of rules including night flying. Good luck on the MV Fly in. Wish I could make it. I had rather put the idea on the back burner with the expectation of maybe making the Homer Fly in instead and now there isn`t going to be one its a bit late to reorganise. Maybe next year. Cheers Pat do not archive -- ________________________________ Message 24 ____________________________________ Time: 03:10:44 PM PST US From: "mike moulai" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Test Flying --> Kolb-List message posted by: "mike moulai" Sorry Pat, G-CDFA was the first Xtra with Jab 2200 and VG's to gain full UK type approval, G-PLAD is the next one though. In the UK, ALL new kit built aircraft must initially be flown by a suitably qualified test pilot and a final test programme conducted, then the A/C can be issued with a full permit to fly. At each annual there after can be flown by the owner. Mike ----- Original Message ----- From: "pat ladd" Sent: Sunday, April 16, 2006 1:40 PM Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Test Flying > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "pat ladd" > > Here in the States we get to be our own test pilot for our own aircraft.>> > > Hi John, > > for the normal annual C of A the pilot can fly his own stuff and just note > the readings on the official form. > > In my case the Authorities decreed that Mick, as dealer, is the designated > test pilot because mine will be the first Xtra here fitted with a Jabi 4 > stroke and VG`s and will consequently be the first to get `type > approval`. > This means that any other planes, and there are several in the last stages > of building, with the same configuration will be automatically OK. They > will > just need the certificates issued at intervals during building by the > inspector who monitors the standard of workmanship. > > Mick is giving me a conversion and check out as I have not flown a tail > dragger for years. Roll on the good weather. > > Cheers > > Pat > > do not archive > > > -- > > > ________________________________ Message 25 ____________________________________ Time: 04:27:43 PM PST US From: "Larry Bourne" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: no parts --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Larry Bourne" Who Dat ?? Do not Archive Larry Bourne Palm Springs, CA Building Kolb Mk III N78LB Vamoose www.gogittum.com ----- Original Message ----- From: "boyd" Sent: Monday, April 17, 2006 9:33 AM Subject: Kolb-List: no parts > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "boyd" > > When I ordered my parts last week I was told that they were in stock and > would be delivered by Friday.. Called this morning and was told they > had > no parts in stock and they would have to come from Austria. 2 to 3 > months... called another company and ordered the part and they assured > me they had it in stock. THIS FRIDAY FER SURE.. Kind of sounds > like > someone else on the list... > > Boyd > > > Do not archive. > > > ________________________________ Message 26 ____________________________________ Time: 04:55:55 PM PST US From: "Larry Bourne" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Monument Valley --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Larry Bourne" Thanks, Dave. I just called to double check my reservations, and I am paid, and in space 12. She flat refused to move any of the Airstream group, and said to call back in the morning if I'm not happy. Apparently I'm fairly close........?? You guys who haven't reserved had better hop to it. Lar. Larry Bourne Palm Springs, CA Building Kolb Mk III N78LB Vamoose www.gogittum.com ----- Original Message ----- From: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Sent: Monday, April 17, 2006 8:47 AM Subject: Kolb-List: Monument Valley > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" > > > Guys, > > I just made my reservations from the 17th thru the 21st and I'm in > space 11. There's a bunch of Airstream people there around the same time > so it's probably best to make reservations asap. I couldn't get space 48 > which is what I wanted but space 11 is near the tent camping area - just > over the hill like we were a couple of years ago. Spaces 10 on down are > still available. I think spaces 12 on up will be available if anyone is > coming in late, like on the 19th or later because the airstream people are > leaving around that time. Phone number is 435 727-3235. I asked if the > tent guys need to make reservations and his answer was kinda wishy washy. > I don't think the tenters HAVE to have a reservation but he said he'd like > them to call first - whatever that means. Oh, and when you make your > reservations, tell him you're with the Kolb bunch. > > AzDave > > > ________________________________ Message 27 ____________________________________ Time: 05:05:49 PM PST US From: robert bean Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar --> Kolb-List message posted by: robert bean > > Why are you using Epoxy....instead of Fiberglass "Resin" w/hardener? The hardware store 30 minute epoxy isn't too bad. The 5 minute stuff is worthless. It should be used with either random mat or woven. Ok for an internal reinforcing patch on a crack or split. I used the "AlphaPoxy" laminating resin from ACSpruce for my nose plug. A gallon will do a lot of work. The polyester resins used in the bondo type compounds will shrink and debond with exposure to light and heat. If used as a cosmetic filler the ones with the chopped glass in them like "Tiger Hair" are ok. For smoothing fussy little low spots a quick hardening polyester spot putty like EverCoat Spot-Lite is handy. -BB > ...I think I > > would grind that epoxy out of there....and do all the repairs with > fiberglass > > ...that would be the strongest...I think the epoxy would separate after > > some flexing... > > Some repairs call for "chopping" up the fiberglass cloth....kind of > laying > > it down like that plywood stuff.... > > > Parts List...? Call Kolb... > > > Gotta Fly... > Mike in MN > > > DrHook wrote: >> Ya, But I got the Golden Egg!!! This little girl was about to grab >> it, so I pushed her down, and grabbed it myself [Laughing] >> OK, OK your right Mike, But you only seen the good side of it. >> On the inside, >> I was able to take a couple of strips of 4oz. fibrglass cloth and 30 >> min epoxy on 2 of the real bad rips in it and it seems like it is >> going to work. >> I cleaned the suface with acetone, then sanded and the epoxy has >> really bonded. >> There are going to be some pretty bad gaps, on the outside though. >> What would you suggest? Can I use some kind of bondo? >> I am going to re-inforce the area's where it attach'es to the fuse >> cage using the fiberglass-epoxy strip and I guess I better do the >> same around the Top where I will need to attach the new short >> windsheild. >> But still, Is there a parts list for the Firestar from Kolb? >> >> Thanks for the nudge, Mike and Bob. >> I couldn't find spell check here, So please, grade me on the curve :D > > > -------- > . > . > . > . > .Do not archive > > > Read this topic online here: > > http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=28988#28988 > > ________________________________ Message 28 ____________________________________ Time: 05:45:37 PM PST US From: Frcole@aol.com Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Manual In-cockpit Mixture Control for 2-stroke Engines --> Kolb-List message posted by: Frcole@aol.com I have used a pair of HAC compensating carbs on a 503 for about 12 years. Technically you should adjust them once a year with a little divining rod that comes with them and a known air pressure preferably in millibars. I have become lazy recently and have not done the adjustment for 3 years or so. They function well, I have been able to fly to 12K + and not have seasonal problems. Considering how easy it is to swap a main jet (and if you are going for altitude you will be wide open) its a working but not an economical solution. Dick C ________________________________ Message 29 ____________________________________ Time: 06:12:59 PM PST US From: possums Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: possums At 11:15 AM 4/17/2006, you wrote: >--> Kolb-List message posted by: "Richard & Martha Neilsen" > > > >It seems there would be allot more DARs for experimental and maybe even some >FAA guys in your area. Come on guys ....I'm am making $4,000 a week as a DAR - don't make waves. Don't have to get up till 10:00 AM - because they never have the paper work ready anyway. Everybody's got to pay the rent! ________________________________ Message 30 ____________________________________ Time: 06:21:45 PM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar From: "planecrazzzy" --> Kolb-List message posted by: "planecrazzzy" Hey Chris, Scratch what I said about epoxy....Somebody told me that their "ARE" epoxies that are used.... I thought it was just some kind of glue that you were trying..... Oh well... Gotta Fly... -------- .. .. .. .. .Do not archive Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=29026#29026 ________________________________ Message 31 ____________________________________ Time: 07:06:32 PM PST US From: N27SB@AOL.COM Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Manual In-cockpit Mixture Control for 2-stroke Engines --> Kolb-List message posted by: N27SB@aol.com In a message dated 4/17/2006 3:19:54 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, jratcli256@AOL.COM writes: In a web search looking for information on alt. compensating carbs, I came across the Green Sky Adventures site about the HACman Mixture Control. Looks interesting - has anyone any experience with this setup or heard about it? A system was donated to Kolb as a door prize at last years homecoming. The winner swapped it to Bryan Melborn. Bryan offered it for sale with proceeds to go to Norm Labhardt's Children's Fund. Try him at 606 682 0645. steve ________________________________ Message 32 ____________________________________ Time: 07:06:43 PM PST US From: "Richard & Martha Neilsen" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Richard & Martha Neilsen" Thanks Dave I forgot the 16 hour class was a feature of ELSA registration. Seems like there might be some way to change a amateur built experimental to a ELSA if necessary. In fact I would expect that the FAA considers the experimental a higher level of registration. It's something like the private pilot license that can fly a ELSA without a medical. I would think that when it all sorts out, its likely that a airplane registered as a Experimental that meets the standards of a ELSA will have that ability to be maintained by a nonbuilder owner with the 16 hour class also. Rick Neilsen Redrive VW powered MKIIIc ----- Original Message ----- From: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" Sent: Monday, April 17, 2006 12:10 PM Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Airworthiness Certificate > --> Kolb-List message posted by: "Dave & Eve Pelletier" > > > If you didn't build the plane, then you can't register it as > Experimental - > Amateur Built since you didn't build 51% of it. > > Also, the difference is that you can do all of the inspections on your > plane > after you attend the 16-hour Maintenance course if it is registered ELSA > and, (here is the important part) the next owner can also attend the > 16-hour > course and do all of the maintenance and inspections. Sure, if it is > registered Experimental Amateur Buit, you can do the maintenance and > inspections since you built it. But the next owner has to have an A & E > guy > do the annuals and maintenance and that can get expensive. Therefore, > your > plane becomes more valuable if/when you want to sell it if it is > registered > ELSA. ________________________________ Message 33 ____________________________________ Time: 07:08:45 PM PST US From: WhiskeyVictor36@aol.com Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Mounment Valley Photos --> Kolb-List message posted by: WhiskeyVictor36@aol.com In a message dated 4/16/2006 1:09:39 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, jrjungjr@yahoo.com writes: It is time to start thinking about Monument Valley this May. To increase the intrest, I posted some photos an Flickr. Check them out. Hi John, That really is some fine photography. Thanks for the posting. Bill Varnes Original Kolb FireStar Audubon NJ Do Not Archive ________________________________ Message 34 ____________________________________ Time: 07:15:58 PM PST US From: N27SB@aol.com Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Nose Fairing, & other parts for the Firestar --> Kolb-List message posted by: N27SB@aol.com In a message dated 4/17/2006 9:00:43 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, jindoguy@gmail.com writes: Micro ballons from Spruce, Wick's or a local supplier. Mix up a small batch of epoxy (1/4 cup max) add micro balloons until it has the consistency of stiff cream (always wear a face mask when using micro balloons, they're tiny glass bubbles) and apply with a squeegee. Put on a nicely skimmed, thin layer. The next day, sand, and repeat until you have the surface you're ready to prime. If you have lots of pin holes (you WILL) use pure epoxy applied with a single edge razor blade as a squeegee to fill them. This may take several applications, too. If you ever wondered about it, it generally takes longer to fill and smooth a Long EZ or Varieze than it does to build the entire structure of the aircraft, it just depends on what you want the finished product to look like. After building a Long Ez to Show Quality I think I can comment on this. Epoxy and polyester can be compatible in any case as long as the preparation is ok. If you have a crushed part like a nose, there are several ways to repair it depending on the specifics. I repaired a wheelpant once and it looked better than the other one. feel free to call me during daytime office hours at 407 947 0708 and I will try to help. Depending on your specifics it can be a lengthy topic. Steve B Firefly #007 ________________________________ Message 35 ____________________________________ Time: 07:48:27 PM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: HKS From: "oneaviator" --> Kolb-List message posted by: "oneaviator" Green Sky Adventures is looking for a firestar II to put an HKS engine on. Its not free but they will absorb development and testing; Check out the web http://www.greenskyadventures.com/EnginePricing/HKS/SnF_2006/kolb.htm Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=29050#29050 ________________________________ Message 36 ____________________________________ Time: 08:04:27 PM PST US From: "John Hauck" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: HKS --> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Hauck" Hey! That's my airplane. I'd recognize the Wal*Mart plastic table cloth windshield cover anywhere. ;-) http://www.greenskyadventures.com/EnginePricing/HKS/SnF_2006/kolb.htm Gerry Olenik must have taken these photos the morning after the big thunderstorm. He and his family, occupying the two tents on the other side of my mkIII and tent, got drenched. I woke up at 0230 to moans and groans drifting through the rage of the storm. The wind was blowing and the rain was coming down in buckets full. If you look hanging on the prop of Gerry's Kitfox you will see a pair of soggy blue jeans hanging there. Glad to see he is initiating plans for developing the HKS for the Kolb. Now is a good chance for someone to get in on the ground floor. Take care, john h mkIII ________________________________ Message 37 ____________________________________ Time: 08:08:39 PM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Monument Valley from satelite From: "John Jung" --> Kolb-List message posted by: "John Jung" Group, I just descovered that Goolgle Earth and Google Local have high definition satelite photos of Monument Valley. Gouldings runway is out of the high def area, but you can see the runway by following the link in my photo's description: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jrjung/129052926/in/set-72057594107890481/ To have your socks knocked off, follow the link on my Totem Pole photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jrjung/129053669/in/set-72057594107890481/ do not archive -------- John Jung Firestar II N6163J Surprise, AZ Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=29056#29056 ________________________________ Message 38 ____________________________________ Time: 11:46:17 PM PST US From: possums Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Mounment Valley Photos --> Kolb-List message posted by: possums At 10:08 PM 4/17/2006, you wrote: >--> Kolb-List message posted by: WhiskeyVictor36@aol.com > > >In a message dated 4/16/2006 1:09:39 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, >jrjungjr@yahoo.com writes: > >It is time to start thinking about Monument Valley this May. This is no ordinary adventure, but the celebrated =93Running of the Kolbs=94 more than 2,100 miles through America's Heartland - the granddaddy of long flights - from Georgia, at least, it wanders across how many states? I don't even know! Through hills and mountains whose very names Blue Ridge, Smokies, Rockies, -seems an invitation to amble. Who could not feel an urge, as the naturalist John Muir once put it, to "throw a loaf of bread and a pound of tea in an old sack and jump over the back fence", I could set off from home, fly over 2,000 miles from Georgia and fly over the rough and wild wilderness few have ever seen. A little voice in my head says: "Sounds neat! Let's do it!" I've formed a number of rationalizations. It would get me fit after years flying around the pattern and wandering back and forth to Florida. It would be an interesting and reflective way to acquaint myself with the scale and beauty of my native land. It would be useful (I not quite sure in what way, but I am sure nonetheless) to learn to fend for myself in the wilderness and live off the land (eat those orange crackers at the FBO every meal). When the guys in leather jackets and pop-up tents sit around the campfire talking about fearsome things done in the air, I would no longer have to feel like such a cupcake. I want a little of that swagger that comes with being able to gaze at a far horizon through eyes of chipped granite and say with a slow, manly sniff, "Yeah, I've shit in the woods too." Then I came gradually to realize that this is way beyond=AD way beyond =AD anything I had attempted before. For instance, the woods of Alabama are full of peril =AD rattlesnakes and water moccasins and nests of copperheads; bobcats, bears, coyotes, wolves, and wild boar; hillbillies destabilize by gross quantities of impure corn liquor and generations of profoundly unbiblical sex; rabies-crazed skunks, raccoons, and squirrels; merciless fire ants and ravening blackfly; poison ivy, poison sumac, poison oak, and poison salamanders; even a scattering of moose lethally deranged by a parasitic worm that burrows a nest in their brains and befuddles them into chasing hapless campers through remote, sunny meadows to their death =85 and that=92s just Alabama! I've heard four separate stories (always related with a chuckle) of campers and bears sharing tents for a few confused and lively moments; stories of fliers abruptly vaporized ("tweren't nothing left of him but a scorch mark") by tree trunk-sized bolts of lightning when caught in sudden storms and sent spinning on to distant valley floors. If you're lucky you can hope to spend the rest of your life propped in a chair with a bib around your neck. "What is certain is that it is a long, long way, and it is not easy. Then you carry: a three-season tent, self-inflating sleeping pad, assorted pots and pans, collapsible eating utensils, plastic dishes and cups, stuff sacks, patching kit, sleeping bag, bungee cords, water bottles tie downs, waterproof matches, a big knife for killing bears and hillbillies, insulated long johns and undershirts, four bandannas, and lots of other stuff. "This wouldn't be so bad, I told myself. But secretly I know that I am quite wrong. Maybe when I'm older and don't have so much to lose? Maybe next year - when I have a new engine. Yeah....next year would be good, right Larry? (Plagiarized =96 but bet you can't guess from whom).