---------------------------------------------------------- Kolb-List Digest Archive --- Total Messages Posted Fri 08/13/10: 22 ---------------------------------------------------------- Today's Message Index: ---------------------- 1. 03:51 AM - Re: flight to Michigan (Thom Riddle) 2. 04:25 AM - Re: Kolb flying boat (Dennis Souder) 3. 05:11 AM - Re: Re: Kolb's using VW conversion... (Richard Neilsen) 4. 08:58 AM - Re: flight to Michigan (Ralph B) 5. 10:01 AM - Re: Kolb flying boat (chris davis) 6. 10:23 AM - Re: Re: flight to Michigan (John Hauck) 7. 10:28 AM - Kolb Aircraft's new model (Mike Welch) 8. 11:22 AM - Re: Kolb Aircraft's new model (Kolb Aircraft) 9. 11:35 AM - Re: Kolb Aircraft's new model (Mike Welch) 10. 11:44 AM - Balanced Aircraft (Kirby, Dennis Civ USAF AFMC AFNWC/EN) 11. 11:58 AM - Re: Balanced Aircraft (robert bean) 12. 01:41 PM - Re: Balanced Aircraft (russ kinne) 13. 02:19 PM - Re: Last Saturday (Pat Ladd) 14. 04:13 PM - Re: Last Saturday (Richard Girard) 15. 04:22 PM - Re: Balanced Aircraft (Richard Girard) 16. 04:31 PM - Re: Kolb Aircraft's new model (Richard Girard) 17. 05:14 PM - Re: Balanced Aircraft (John Hauck) 18. 05:57 PM - Re: Last Saturday (Dana Hague) 19. 06:26 PM - Re: flight to Michigan (Ralph B) 20. 07:50 PM - Re: Re: flight to Michigan (John Hauck) 21. 08:26 PM - Re: Balanced Aircraft (Richard Girard) 22. 08:34 PM - Latex paint (again???!!!!) (George Bearden) ________________________________ Message 1 _____________________________________ Time: 03:51:59 AM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: flight to Michigan From: "Thom Riddle" Ralph, Your Kolbra is one beautiful airplane. Almost makes me want to trade up :-). -------- Thom Riddle Buffalo, NY (9G0) Kolb Slingshot SS-021 Jabiru 2200A #1574 Tennessee Prop 64x32 The truth will set you free. But first, it will piss you off. - Gloria Steinem Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=308630#308630 ________________________________ Message 2 _____________________________________ Time: 04:25:38 AM PST US From: "Dennis Souder" Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat Ron, In addition to the probable excess weight issue, I'd also check the internals on wing at the sponson float attach point. If there is no internal reinforcement for the rib(s) where the sponson attaches at the rear wing spar, then that is placing too much stress on adjacent wing rib(s). It looks like one rib would take the major portion of the load and no rib is capable of handling the potential sponson induced loading. If that rib weakens and fails, then the load would be taken up by the next adjacent ribs. And they in turn could be overstressed and eventually fail. This damage can be hidden because the wing fabric is flexible and can look normal even after the ribs are broken underneath. The trailing edge is not strong or stiff enough to take the loads imposed by a sponson float. The danger here is that internal damage could start and grow unseen until the wing was seriously weakened. When imagining this scenario don't think about a smooth lake surface with the nice small ripples, imagine some winds that have stirred up some waves or a motor boat had just sent out a large wake and you don't see it and the sponson dips into this wave. Or you bump a dock or rock on the shore. The sponson is on a long moment arm and can exert a lot of force on the wing. All Kolb mono floats that I have seen attach the sponsons directly to the main wing spar. The sponson is supported by one stout tube that goes completely thru the 5" spar. This is placed far enough outboard where the lifting loads are no longer a major part of the spar load and the spar can afford a large vertical hole thru it. Dennis _____ From: owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com [mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of ron schick Sent: Friday, August 13, 2010 12:40 AM Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat Dan and all thanks for the pics and the input. Yes the plane is near complete, but there are some tractor mechanic things I would want to address before I flew it. First would be weights and balance, then the hinged windshield would need more attachment for my liking. The fuel and wiring would need the blue auto connectors to the coil removed and the glass cleanable fuel filter thrown in the trash etc. Beyond that my concerns would be the handling caracteristics with the tail group behind that big old boat possibly blanking the tail. My biggest concerns are the paperwork to get a registration, and the purchase price in case I have to part it out. The water is always a little cold in southwest Oregon so getting out of a swamped wreck has me a little concerned as well :-) I'll try to attach a few more pics, but have never seen it off the trailer. I'll throw in a pic of my VW Fox for the redrive crowd. Ron NB Ore _____ From: h20maule@hotmail.com Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat Ron, here are pics of my FS amphib...do you have any photos of the whole plane? Daniel Myers 407 920 7700 _____ From: roncarolnikko@hotmail.com Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat I am thinking of buying it, but if the gear is a design flaw and not just for beaching I wonder if it should be returned to a conventional Firestar. I have built a 582 Avid A model and Kitfox 4 with a VW redrive so I'm used to the experimenting. The fiberglass would probably need test drilled, banged or something to make sure it would withstand landings on choppy water. The plane has been through a few hands and the main builder has passed away. _____ Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat From: aslsa.rng@gmail.com Now this truly puts the experiment in experimental aircraft. Are you thinking of buying this, Ron? It would be great to watch your progress as you bring this to the air, and water. Very cool. Rick Girard On Wed, Aug 11, 2010 at 10:25 PM, ron schick wrote: I've found a Kolb Firestar two that has been converted to an amphibian. The workmanship looks very good, but the gear must be for beaching only. The leverage of the gear to lever is about 4:1 and could not be done in flight. Has anyone else heard of a Kolb amphibian? I'll try to attach a picture. Thanks Ron arget=_blank>http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List ttp://forums.matronics.com =_blank>http://www.matronics.com/contribution arget=_blank>http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List ttp://forums.matronics.com =_blank>http://www.matronics.com/contribution ________________________________ Message 3 _____________________________________ Time: 05:11:45 AM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Kolb's using VW conversion... From: Richard Neilsen Mike/All Yes Kolb is building a MKIIIX for a redrive VW for their demonstrator but is still in the early stages. Seems like Brian said is was ready for powder coat and the engine hasn't been purchased. Rick Neilsen 1st Redrive VW Powered MKIIIC On Fri, Aug 13, 2010 at 12:28 AM, Mike Welch wrote: > Rick N., Bob G., others, etc, > > Didn't Kolb people say something recently about offering a VW based > engine > on the XTRA? Or did that idea get kind of left behind under the new > ownership? > > Mike Welch > > > ------------------------------ > Date: Thu, 12 Aug 2010 23:57:44 -0400 > Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: Kolb's using VW conversion... > From: neilsenrm@gmail.com > > To: kolb-list@matronics.com > > Bob > > Craig and I are the only ones that have redrive VWs flying on Kolbs. Rick > Lewis should be close with his water cooled cowled VW. Seems like there are > others building but they haven't, so far, announced themselves. Larry Borne > was a very long time builder working on chain drive VW on a Kolb but gave up > on the project and sold everything a few years back. > > Rick Neilsen > 1st Redrive VW Powered MKIIIC > > On Thu, Aug 12, 2010 at 10:48 PM, cspoke wrote: > > > Bob, I have been flying my VW redrive XTRA since April this year. It has > been everything that I could have hoped for. Contact me anytime. I'm always > glad to talk about my plane. > > -------- > Craig Spoke > Mark 111 Xtra > VW Redrive > Lillian, AL > cspoke@gulftel.com > > > Read this topic online here: > > http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=308606#308606 > t Un/Subscription, > www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List" target="_blank"> > http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List > ronics.com/" target="_blank">http://forums.matronics.com > Matt Dralle, List Admin. > ==== > > > * > > > arget=_blank>http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List > ttp://forums.matronics.com > > =_blank>http://www.matronics.com/contribution > * > > * > > * > > ________________________________ Message 4 _____________________________________ Time: 08:58:22 AM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: flight to Michigan From: "Ralph B" > "Thom Riddle" > > Ralph, > > Your Kolbra is one beautiful airplane. Almost makes me want to trade up :-). Thom, I considered getting a Slingshot years ago. It's only in the last two years that that Mark was selling the Kolbra and I found a way to finance it. Flying the Kolbra is very similar to any other Kolb aircraft until a passenger is aboard. Then it becomes a very different machine to fly. I like the 912 (of course) and it makes it possible to fly over terrain that I wouldn't fly in my 2-stroke Firestar. One thing that I've thought about lately is the reliability of the 912 is only as good as the hoses and clamps that are on it. Do you remember that nick in my radiator hose? Well Mark and I replaced that hose before I left. I also went over all the clamps on the engine to make sure they were all tight. A friend of mine lost the coolant in his 912 due to a chafing radiator hose. He was heading to Idaho from here and had to land 11 miles into his trip. Lucky for him that it didn't happen while over the mountains. Ralph -------- Ralph B Original Firestar 447 N91493 E-AB 1000 hours 23 years flying it Kolbra 912UL N20386 2 years flying it 120 hrs Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=308675#308675 ________________________________ Message 5 _____________________________________ Time: 10:01:35 AM PST US From: chris davis Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat Dennis , When I had a monofloat on my KXP I mounted the sponson on the wing fold =0Aholding tube=C2-with cable stays going to the leading edge and t o the wing tip ? =0AThis seemed to be well supported to me as the wing fod tubes were intended to =0Ahold the weight of the wing ? It worked out well =C2-but I never hit anything and =0Amost of my landings were on reasonabl y calm water.=C2-What do you think of that rig =0A? Thank you =C2-Chris Davis=0AKXP 503 492 hrs=0AGlider Pilot=0ADisabled from crash building Fire fly =0A=0A=0A=0A=0A________________________________=0AFrom: Dennis Souder < flykolb@pa.net>=0ATo: kolb-list@matronics.com=0ASent: Fri, August 13, 2010 7:25:12 AM=0ASubject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat=0A=0A=0ARon,=0A=C2- =0AIn addition to the probable excess weight issue, I=99d also check the internals on =0Awing at the sponson float attach point.=C2- If there is no internal reinforcement =0Afor the rib(s) where the sponson attaches a t the rear wing spar, then that is =0Aplacing too much stress on adjacent w ing rib(s).=C2- It looks like one rib would =0Atake the major portion of the load and no rib is capable of handling the =0Apotential sponson induced loading. If that rib weakens and fails, then the load =0Awould be taken up by the next adjacent ribs.=C2- And they in turn could be =0Aoverstressed and eventually fail.=C2- This damage can be hidden because the wing =0Af abric is flexible and can look normal even after the ribs are broken =0Aund erneath. =C2-The trailing edge is not strong or stiff enough to take the loads =0Aimposed by a sponson float.=C2- The danger here is that internal damage could start =0Aand grow unseen until the wing was seriously weakene d. =C2-=C2-When imagining this =0Ascenario don=99t think about a =C2-smooth lake surface with the nice small ripples, =0Aimagine some wind s that have stirred up some waves or a motor boat had just sent =0Aout a la rge wake and you don=99t see it and the sponson dips into this wave. =C2- Or =0Ayou bump a dock or rock on the shore.=C2- The sponson is on a long moment arm and =0Acan exert a lot of force on the wing.=0A=C2-=0AA ll Kolb mono floats that I have seen attach the sponsons directly to the ma in =0Awing spar.=C2- The sponson is supported by one stout tube that goes completely thru =0Athe 5=9D spar.=C2- This is placed far enough ou tboard where the lifting loads are no =0Alonger a major part of the spar lo ad and the spar can afford a large vertical =0Ahole thru it.=0A=C2-=0ADen nis=0A=C2-=0A=0A________________________________=0A=0AFrom:owner-kolb-lis t-server@matronics.com =0A[mailto:owner-kolb-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of ron schick=0ASent: Friday, August 13, 2010 12:40 AM=0ATo: Kolb-li st=0ASubject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat=0A=C2-=0ADan and all thanks for the pics and the input.=C2- Yes=C2-the plane is near complete, =0A but there are some tractor mechanic things I would want to address before I flew =0Ait.=C2- First would be weights and balance, then the hinged wind shield would need =0Amore attachment for my liking.=C2- The fuel and wiri ng would need the blue auto =0Aconnectors to the coil removed and the glass cleanable fuel filter thrown in the =0Atrash etc. Beyond that my concerns would be the handling caracteristics with the =0Atail group behind that big old boat possibly blanking the tail.=C2- My biggest =0Aconcerns are the paperwork to=C2-get a registration, and the purchase price in case =0AI h ave to part it out.=C2- The water is always a little cold in southwest Or egon so =0Agetting out of a swamped wreck has me a little concerned as well :-)=C2- I'll try =0Ato attach a few more pics, but have never seen it of f the trailer.=C2-=C2-I'll throw =0Ain a pic of my VW Fox for the redri ve crowd. =C2-Ron NB Ore=0A=C2-=0A=0A________________________________ =0A=0AFrom: h20maule@hotmail.com=0ATo: kolb-list@matronics.com=0ASubject: R E: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat=0ADate: Thu, 12 Aug 2010 11:15:29 -0400=0A =0ARon, here are pics of my FS amphib...do you=C2-have any photos of the =C2-whole plane?=0ADaniel Myers=0A407 920 7700=0A=C2-=0A=0A____________ ____________________=0A=0AFrom: roncarolnikko@hotmail.com=0ATo: kolb-list@m atronics.com=0ASubject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat=0ADate: Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:21:24 -0700=0A=0AI am thinking of buying it, but if the gear is a design flaw and not just for =0Abeaching I wonder if it should be returned to a conventional Firestar.=0AI have built a 582=C2-Avid A model and Kitf ox 4 with a VW redrive so I'm used to =0Athe experimenting. The fiberglass would probably need test drilled, =C2-banged or =0Asomething to make sure it would withstand=C2- landings on choppy water.=C2- The plane =0Ahas been through a few hands and the main=C2-builder has passed away.=0A=0A__ ______________________________=0A=0ADate: Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:01:06 -0500 =0ASubject: Re: Kolb-List: Kolb flying boat=0AFrom: aslsa.rng@gmail.com=0AT o: kolb-list@matronics.com=0A=0ANow this truly puts the experiment in exper imental aircraft. Are you thinking of =0Abuying this, Ron? It would be grea t to watch your progress as you bring this to =0Athe air, and water. Very c ool. =0A=0A=C2-=0ARick Girard=0AOn Wed, Aug 11, 2010 at 10:25 PM, ron sch ick wrote:=0AI've found a Kolb Firestar two tha t has been converted to an amphibian.=C2- The =0Aworkmanship looks very g ood, but the gear must be for beaching only.=C2- The =0Aleverage of the g ear to lever is about 4:1 and could not be done in flight.=C2- Has =0Aany one else heard of a Kolb amphibian?=C2-I'll try to attach a picture. =C2 -Thanks Ron =0A=0A=C2-=0A =C2-=0A =C2-=0Aarget=_blank>http://www. matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List=0Attp://forums.matronics.com=0A=_blank> http://www.matronics.com/contribution=0A =C2-=0A =C2-=0A =C2-=0Aarget =_blank>http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List=0Attp://forums.matro nics.com=0A=_blank>http://www.matronics.com/contribution=0A =C2-=0A =================== =0A=0A=0A=0A ________________________________ Message 6 _____________________________________ Time: 10:23:11 AM PST US From: "John Hauck" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: flight to Michigan A friend of mine lost the coolant in his 912 due to a chafing radiator hose. He was heading to Idaho from here and had to land 11 miles into his trip. Lucky for him that it didn't happen while over the mountains. > > Ralph Ralph/Gang: The 912 series engines are primarily oil cooled. Eric Tucker told me a 912 engine was run 2.0 hours with no coolant. Should a 912 loose coolant, reduce power, and proceed to the nearest airport to make repairs. Monitor engine oil temp to keep it in the green. john h mkIII ________________________________ Message 7 _____________________________________ Time: 10:28:27 AM PST US From: Mike Welch Subject: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model Kolb people=2C Most people on this list own cars. Usually=2C and that means "in general "=2C these cars come in various models. You've got your XL=2C LX=2C LVT=2C your 500=2C 350=2C and the alwa ys popular 300. Now=2C here's what I'm thinking...........see'in as how Kolb company(s) h ave this really indisposable guy=2C don't you think it's about time Kolb Aircraft Co. paid tribute=2C and came up with "THE TRAVIS 2000"? You could base it on any model=2C the Xtra=2C Firestar.....whatever. Or make it the "upgrade" model of all of them. Sort of like=3B (telephone noises) Ring=2C ring.......ring=2C ri..... "Kolb Aircraft=2C dedicated and hard working employee Travis=2C speaking" ........ (caller) "Yes=2C I'd like to order the Firestar kit............ Windshi eld??? Sure=2C why not? Long gear legs? Hey=2C but of course!! Pre-built ribs?? ......hmmmm=2C you know=2C wha t the heck.....I think I'll just go 'all in'=2C let's just make it the Travis 2000 Firestar--Limited E dition <---(but=2C they'll actually make as many of them as you want). It's about time our hard working people got a little credit around here =2C and Kolb Co. needs a new model!!!!!!! Cadillac has it's CTS=2C Lincoln has it's MKS=2C Kolb ought to have it's Travis 2000!! Travis=2C we love ya=2C Buddy!!! Kolb Aircraft just wouldn't be the same without ya!! Just my thoughts on the matter=2C your mileage may vary!!! Mike Welch (no percosets consumed during this message) ________________________________ Message 8 _____________________________________ Time: 11:22:07 AM PST US From: "Kolb Aircraft" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model Mike I appreciate all the good words. I do try 100% here but it is hard to make everybody happy. You have always been great to work with. All you guys are the best. Travis Kolb CO. ----- Original Message ----- From: Mike Welch To: kolb-list@matronics.com Sent: Friday, August 13, 2010 1:27 PM Subject: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model Kolb people, Most people on this list own cars. Usually, and that means "in general", these cars come in various models. You've got your XL, LX, LVT, your 500, 350, and the always popular 300. Now, here's what I'm thinking...........see'in as how Kolb company(s) have this really indisposable guy, don't you think it's about time Kolb Aircraft Co. paid tribute, and came up with "THE TRAVIS 2000"? You could base it on any model, the Xtra, Firestar.....whatever. Or make it the "upgrade" model of all of them. Sort of like; (telephone noises) Ring, ring.......ring, ri..... "Kolb Aircraft, dedicated and hard working employee Travis, speaking"........ (caller) "Yes, I'd like to order the Firestar kit............ Windshield??? Sure, why not? Long gear legs? Hey, but of course!! Pre-built ribs?? ......hmmmm, you know, what the heck.....I think I'll just go 'all in', let's just make it the Travis 2000 Firestar--Limited Edition <---(but, they'll actually make as many of them as you want). It's about time our hard working people got a little credit around here, and Kolb Co. needs a new model!!!!!!! Cadillac has it's CTS, Lincoln has it's MKS, Kolb ought to have it's Travis 2000!! Travis, we love ya, Buddy!!! Kolb Aircraft just wouldn't be the same without ya!! Just my thoughts on the matter, your mileage may vary!!! Mike Welch (no percosets consumed during this message) ________________________________ Message 9 _____________________________________ Time: 11:35:51 AM PST US From: Mike Welch Subject: RE: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model Travis=2C Thanks!! I'm still gonna keep my eye open for that new model with the go ld trim=2C and reclining seats! Plus=2C I think I saw where Bob Bean said he can get his hands on some flat screen TVs for the panel. : ) Mike Welch From: customersupport@tnkolbaircraft.com Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model Mike I appreciate all the good words. I do try 100% here but it is hard to make everybody happy. You have always been great to work with. All you guys are the best. Travis Kolb CO. ----- Original Message ----- From: Mike Welch Sent: Friday=2C August 13=2C 2010 1:27 PM Subject: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model Kolb people=2C Most people on this list own cars. Usually=2C and that means "in general "=2C these cars come in various models. You've got your XL=2C LX=2C LVT=2C your 500=2C 350=2C and the alwa ys popular 300. Now=2C here's what I'm thinking...........see'in as how Kolb company(s) h ave this really indisposable guy=2C don't you think it's about time Kolb Aircraft Co. paid tribute=2C and came up with "THE TRAVIS 2000"? You could base it on any model=2C the Xtra=2C Firestar.....whatever. Or make it the "upgrade" model of all of them. Sort of like=3B (telephone noises) Ring=2C ring.......ring=2C ri..... "Kolb Aircraft=2C dedicated and hard working employee Travis=2C speaking" ........ (caller) "Yes=2C I'd like to order the Firestar kit............ Windshi eld??? Sure=2C why not? Long gear legs? Hey=2C but of course!! Pre-built ribs?? ......hmmmm=2C you know=2C wha t the heck.....I think I'll just go 'all in'=2C let's just make it the Travis 2000 Firestar--Limited E dition <---(but=2C they'll actually make as many of them as you want). It's about time our hard working people got a little credit around here =2C and Kolb Co. needs a new model!!!!!!! Cadillac has it's CTS=2C Lincoln has it's MKS=2C Kolb ought to have it's Travis 2000!! Travis=2C we love ya=2C Buddy!!! Kolb Aircraft just wouldn't be the same without ya!! Just my thoughts on the matter=2C your mileage may vary!!! Mike Welch (no percosets consumed during this message) href="http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List">http://www.matronics. com/Navigator?Kolb-List href="http://forums.matronics.com">http://forums.matronics.com href="http://www.matronics.com/contribution">http://www.matronics.com/c ________________________________ Message 10 ____________________________________ Time: 11:44:56 AM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Balanced Aircraft From: "Kirby, Dennis Civ USAF AFMC AFNWC/EN" Kolb Friends - I have an very pleasing flight experience to share: For the first time since my Mark-III's first flight in 2002, it flew hands-off level, for as long as I wished! Yesterday, on an early morning local flight, the air was cool and beautifully calm in central New Mexico. I had a friend (an adult) along for the ride. Once I was at altitude, throttled back and trimmed, I was amazed when I let go of the control stick to see that the Magic Bike just hummed along straight and level, with no tendency to drop a wing or change pitch. This had never happened before. In the past, my Kolb would always drift off to the left. Even after installing the JohnHauck-bungee-around-the-control-stick fix, it would still drift off (although noticeably less), because now it was out of yaw trim a bit. I installed the adjustable wing root U-joint bracket from TNK, and this helped some more, and I attached a rudder trim tab also. But even after all these fixes, the aircraft would still want to diverge after a few seconds of hands-off flight. I had come to simply accept this. I attribute yesterday's perfect balance to the fact that this was the first time I had flown with all the trim fixes, AND an adult passenger. (Over the past couple of years, my only passengers have been my children, who are still small.) Nice to know all those trim-balance fixes are really (finally) working! Am continuing to enjoy the simplicity and functional genius of Homer's design! Dennis Kirby Mark-III, 912ul, Powerfin-72 Sandia Park, NM do not archive ________________________________ Message 11 ____________________________________ Time: 11:58:07 AM PST US From: robert bean Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Balanced Aircraft Dennis, what you are saying is now you are stuck with a passenger. I hope she's a cutie. :) BB do not archive On 13, Aug 2010, at 2:44 PM, Kirby, Dennis Civ USAF AFMC AFNWC/EN wrote: > Kolb Friends ' > > I have an very pleasing flight experience to share: For the first time since my Mark-III=92s first flight in 2002, it flew hands-off level, for as long as I wished! > > Yesterday, on an early morning local flight, the air was cool and beautifully calm in central New Mexico. I had a friend (an adult) along for the ride. Once I was at altitude, throttled back and trimmed, I was amazed when I let go of the control stick to see that the Magic Bike just hummed along straight and level, with no tendency to drop a wing or change pitch. This had never happened before. > > In the past, my Kolb would always drift off to the left. Even after installing the JohnHauck-bungee-around-the-control-stick fix, it would still drift off (although noticeably less), because now it was out of yaw trim a bit. I installed the adjustable wing root U-joint bracket from TNK, and this helped some more, and I attached a rudder trim tab also. But even after all these fixes, the aircraft would still want to diverge after a few seconds of hands-off flight. I had come to simply accept this. > > I attribute yesterday=92s perfect balance to the fact that this was the first time I had flown with all the trim fixes, AND an adult passenger. (Over the past couple of years, my only passengers have been my children, who are still small.) > > Nice to know all those trim-balance fixes are really (finally) working! Am continuing to enjoy the simplicity and functional genius of Homer=92s design! > > Dennis Kirby > Mark-III, 912ul, Powerfin-72 > Sandia Park, NM > do not archive > > > > ________________________________ Message 12 ____________________________________ Time: 01:41:42 PM PST US From: russ kinne Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Balanced Aircraft Dennis Congratulations! Glad all your hard work has paid off. But I'm curious. Any dihedral? Russ K do not archive On Aug 13, 2010, at 2:44 PM, Kirby, Dennis Civ USAF AFMC AFNWC/EN wrote: > Kolb Friends ' > > I have an very pleasing flight experience to share: For the first > time since my Mark-III=92s first flight in 2002, it flew hands-off > level, for as long as I wished! > > Yesterday, on an early morning local flight, the air was cool and > beautifully calm in central New Mexico. I had a friend (an adult) > along for the ride. Once I was at altitude, throttled back and > trimmed, I was amazed when I let go of the control stick to see > that the Magic Bike just hummed along straight and level, with no > tendency to drop a wing or change pitch. This had never happened > before. > > In the past, my Kolb would always drift off to the left. Even > after installing the JohnHauck-bungee-around-the-control-stick fix, > it would still drift off (although noticeably less), because now it > was out of yaw trim a bit. I installed the adjustable wing root U- > joint bracket from TNK, and this helped some more, and I attached a > rudder trim tab also. But even after all these fixes, the aircraft > would still want to diverge after a few seconds of hands-off > flight. I had come to simply accept this. > > I attribute yesterday=92s perfect balance to the fact that this was > the first time I had flown with all the trim fixes, AND an adult > passenger. (Over the past couple of years, my only passengers have > been my children, who are still small.) > > Nice to know all those trim-balance fixes are really (finally) > working! Am continuing to enjoy the simplicity and functional > genius of Homer=92s design! > > Dennis Kirby > Mark-III, 912ul, Powerfin-72 > Sandia Park, NM > do not archive > > ________________________________ Message 13 ____________________________________ Time: 02:19:10 PM PST US From: "Pat Ladd" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Last Saturday P-51, "Miss America" Hi Rick, I flew the P51 Crazy Horse for an hour at Kissimmee some years ago Really makes you feel like a real pilot with that Merlin roaring along in front . As you say `How the other half lives` I think that I had a rush of money to my head that day but I have never regretted a penny (or a dollar) of it. The high spot of my flying. I have flown a T6, got my backside into a Hurricane, taxied in a Lancaster, only the Spitfire to go (Some hopes) Cheers Pat ________________________________ Message 14 ____________________________________ Time: 04:13:30 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Last Saturday From: Richard Girard I was tired when I told the story so I didn't tell it all. As the Newsletter said "Miss America" is owned by Dr. Brent Hisey. A real nice guy who answered my questions and seemed to enjoy all the attention his airplane gets. When I was in high school, back in the neolithic, I worked as a line boy for a startup flying club at Fullerton, CA (KFUL) in exchange for flying time. As soon as I was signed off for personal solo, I was eligible to ferry club aircraft from Fullerton to Long Beach for maintenance checks. It was a different world then, is all I can say. At Long Beach (KLGB), near the Douglas plant, sat a P-51, Miss America. Yep, it was the same plane. Now keep in mind, even as late as 1968 you could buy a P-51 in Southern California for $10,000. You could pretty much have your pick and it wasn't unusual to see a tired P-51 sitting in the weeds, tires flat, and paint fading at some podunk airport. Brent confirmed it was the same airplane. It apparently got moved to Santa Monica (KSMO) sometime after that where it sat, derelict, until the mid 70's. My friend, Larry, remembers it there from when he was a kid (he was at KPNC last Saturday, too.) It had the Cox logo (the model airplane company) on it then. Along about that time somebody took pity on it and had it restored to flying condition. Brent didn't say who that was, but he bought the airplane from them in 1993 and has owned it since. As we were talking I'm sure my mouth fell further and further open. Finally I stammered that it had been 42 years since I had seen "Miss America" and she was more beautiful than I remembered her, which made Brent smile just a bit. I feel so old...... Attached is a picture that I took of her last Saturday. Rick On Fri, Aug 13, 2010 at 4:18 PM, Pat Ladd wrote: > P-51, "Miss America" > > Hi Rick, > I flew the P51 Crazy Horse for an hour at Kissimmee some years ago > Really makes you feel like a real pilot with that Merlin roaring along in > front . > > As you say `How the other half lives` I think that I had a rush of money to > my head that day but I have never regretted a penny (or a dollar) of it. The > high spot of my flying. > > I have flown a T6, got my backside into a Hurricane, taxied in a Lancaster, > only the Spitfire to go (Some hopes) > > Cheers > > Pat > > * > > > * > > ________________________________ Message 15 ____________________________________ Time: 04:22:23 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Balanced Aircraft From: Richard Girard Dang, I am jealous now. Zulu Delta hunts for level and would just as soon dive as climb. Clearly I have more work to do. Dennis, I think we should plan a meeting somewhere along the old Route 66 for sometime next spring, say Guymon, OK or Dalhart, TX. That would be abou t midway between you and me. We could swap some lies and have pop, diet of course, a girl's got to watch her weight, after all, and compare Mk III's. What do you think? Rick On Fri, Aug 13, 2010 at 3:40 PM, russ kinne wrote: > Dennis > Congratulations! Glad all your hard work has paid off. > But I'm curious. Any dihedral? > Russ K > do not archive > > > On Aug 13, 2010, at 2:44 PM, Kirby, Dennis Civ USAF AFMC AFNWC/EN wrote: > > Kolb Friends ' > > I have an very pleasing flight experience to share: For the first time > since my Mark-III=92s first flight in 2002, it flew hands-off level, for as > long as I wished! > > Yesterday, on an early morning local flight, the air was cool and > beautifully calm in central New Mexico. I had a friend (an adult) along for > the ride. Once I was at altitude, throttled back and trimmed, I was amaz ed > when I let go of the control stick to see that the Magic Bike just hummed > along straight and level, with no tendency to drop a wing or change pitch .. > This had never happened before. > > In the past, my Kolb would always drift off to the left. Even after > installing the JohnHauck-bungee-around-the-control-stick fix, it would st ill > drift off (although noticeably less), because now it was out of yaw trim a > bit. I installed the adjustable wing root U-joint bracket from TNK, and > this helped some more, and I attached a rudder trim tab also. But even > after all these fixes, the aircraft would still want to diverge after a f ew > seconds of hands-off flight. I had come to simply accept this. > > I attribute yesterday=92s perfect balance to the fact that this was the f irst > time I had flown with all the trim fixes, AND an adult passenger. (Over the > past couple of years, my only passengers have been my children, who are > still small.) > > Nice to know all those trim-balance fixes are really (finally) working! Am > continuing to enjoy the simplicity and functional genius of Homer=92s des ign! > > Dennis Kirby > Mark-III, 912ul, Powerfin-72 > Sandia Park, NM > do not archive > > * > > style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline; ">http://www.matronics. com/Navigator?Kolb-List > blue; text-decoration: underline; ">http://forums.matronics.com > style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline; ">http://www.matronics. com/contribution > * > > ________________________________ Message 16 ____________________________________ Time: 04:31:14 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model From: Richard Girard Ditto. Travis is a genius. There's a good possibility my Mk III would be rolled up in a ball at the scrap yard if it weren't for him. Rick Girard On Fri, Aug 13, 2010 at 1:35 PM, Mike Welch wrote: > Travis, > > Thanks!! I'm still gonna keep my eye open for that new model with the > gold trim, and reclining seats! > Plus, I think I saw where Bob Bean said he can get his hands on some > flatscreen TVs for the panel. > > : ) > > Mike Welch > > ------------------------------ > From: customersupport@tnkolbaircraft.com > > To: kolb-list@matronics.com > Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model > Date: Fri, 13 Aug 2010 14:20:44 -0400 > > > Mike > I appreciate all the good words. I do try 100% here but it is hard to make > everybody happy. > You have always been great to work with. All you guys are the best. > > Travis > Kolb CO. > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Mike Welch > *To:* kolb-list@matronics.com > *Sent:* Friday, August 13, 2010 1:27 PM > *Subject:* Kolb-List: Kolb Aircraft's new model > > Kolb people, > > Most people on this list own cars. Usually, and that means "in general", > these cars come in various > models. You've got your XL, LX, LVT, your 500, 350, and the always popular > 300. > Now, here's what I'm thinking...........see'in as how Kolb company(s) > have this really indisposable guy, > don't you think it's about time Kolb Aircraft Co. paid tribute, and came up > with "THE TRAVIS 2000"? > > You could base it on any model, the Xtra, Firestar.....whatever. * Or*make it the "upgrade" model of all > of them. > > Sort of like; > > (telephone noises) Ring, ring.......ring, ri..... > > "Kolb Aircraft, dedicated and hard working employee Travis, > speaking"........ > > (caller) "Yes, I'd like to order the Firestar kit............ > Windshield??? Sure, why not? Long gear legs? > Hey, but of course!! Pre-built ribs?? ......hmmmm, you know, what the > heck.....I think I'll > just go 'all in', let's just make it the *Travis 2000 Firestar--Limited > Edition <---(*but, they'll actually > make as many of them as you want). > > It's about time our hard working people got a little credit around here, > and Kolb Co. > needs a new model!!!!!!! Cadillac has it's CTS, Lincoln has it's MKS, > Kolb ought to have > it's Travis 2000!! > > Travis, we love ya, Buddy!!! Kolb Aircraft just wouldn't be the same > without ya!! > > Just my thoughts on the matter, your mileage may vary!!! > > Mike Welch > (no percosets consumed during this message) > > > * > > href="http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List > href="http://forums.matronics.com">http://forums.matronics.com > href="http://www.matronics.com/contribution">http://www.matronics.com/c* > > * > > arget=_blank>http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kolb-List > ttp://forums.matronics.com > =_blank>http://www.matronics.com/contribution > * > > * > > * > > ________________________________ Message 17 ____________________________________ Time: 05:14:30 PM PST US From: "John Hauck" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Balanced Aircraft Rick G/Gang: The pitch "sweet spot" can be found by experimenting with the leading edge of the horizontal stabilizers. My MKIII, if adjusted up or down from its present position, feels like it is riding on a ball, falling off the nose or tail, but never settling down. At its present position, it is nice and stable in pitch. James Tripp called me a couple days ago. He was elated. He has about 10 or 12 hours on his "hauck" MKIII (same mods as mine). I had suggested that he change the leading edge of the horizontal down a couple notches. He had done that and just landed from his test flight. The sensation of trying to balance on a ball was gone. His MKIII had settled down. john h mkIII Dang, I am jealous now. Zulu Delta hunts for level and would just as soon dive as climb. Clearly I have more work to do. Rick ________________________________ Message 18 ____________________________________ Time: 05:57:40 PM PST US From: Dana Hague Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Last Saturday 'Miss America".... Back in the late 1970's the plane was owned by Howie Keefe. I was a student at Parks College near St. Louis, working on my Private, when he flew into the local airport to have his VOR head replaced. Somewhere there are pictures, taken with my Kodak Brownie camera. The tower let him make a few low passes on departure.... WOW! -Dana do not archive ________________________________ Message 19 ____________________________________ Time: 06:26:46 PM PST US Subject: Kolb-List: Re: flight to Michigan From: "Ralph B" John and others, I haven't checked the manual for the 912, but I think it can run for about an hour without coolant. The max CHT (I think) is 330F. My buddy's CHT was at 300F and he said there was no engine damage. I wouldn't want to be miles from nowhere without coolant. It's a good idea to check all clamps and hoses anyway ... Ralph -------- Ralph B Original Firestar 447 N91493 E-AB 1000 hours 23 years flying it Kolbra 912UL N20386 2 years flying it 120 hrs Read this topic online here: http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=308738#308738 ________________________________ Message 20 ____________________________________ Time: 07:50:44 PM PST US From: "John Hauck" Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Re: flight to Michigan It's a good idea to check all clamps and hoses anyway ... Ralph Ralph/Folks: Only a fool would not keep his equipment up to snuff. I agree one should check their "clamps and hoses" frequently. My comment was to let folks know they did not need to shut the engine down and take a risk of wrecking their aircraft and themselves if they lost coolant. I would think if I could keep the eng oil and CH temps in the green, I could fly as long as necessary to make a safe landing somewhere without fear of damaging the 912 in the process. john h mkIII ________________________________ Message 21 ____________________________________ Time: 08:26:38 PM PST US Subject: Re: Kolb-List: Balanced Aircraft From: Richard Girard John, Thanks for the info. I'm about to tear the covering off Zulu Delta's tail surfaces and recover to get rid of all that slobbered on Aerothane done by the previous owner. Then I'll begin working on stability issues anew. Rick On Fri, Aug 13, 2010 at 7:13 PM, John Hauck wrote: > Rick G/Gang: > > The pitch "sweet spot" can be found by experimenting with the leading edge > of the horizontal stabilizers. > > My MKIII, if adjusted up or down from its present position, feels like it > is riding on a ball, falling off the nose or tail, but never settling down. > At its present position, it is nice and stable in pitch. > > James Tripp called me a couple days ago. He was elated. He has about 10 > or 12 hours on his "hauck" MKIII (same mods as mine). I had suggested that > he change the leading edge of the horizontal down a couple notches. He had > done that and just landed from his test flight. The sensation of trying to > balance on a ball was gone. His MKIII had settled down. > > john h > mkIII > > > Dang, I am jealous now. Zulu Delta hunts for level and would just as soon > dive as climb. Clearly I have more work to do. > > Rick > > > * > > > = > * > > ________________________________ Message 22 ____________________________________ Time: 08:34:14 PM PST US From: "George Bearden" Subject: Kolb-List: Latex paint (again???!!!!) Hey! I need to cover my Kolb. I am new to aircraft, particularly Kolbs. I can't learn to fly in this one till I get it recovered. I have been researching the different covering systems. I have also been spending a lot of time in the archives here. We have had a lot of posts on the latex house paint idea. While I haven't sensed a consensus on it, I haven't yet read a well-constructed rebuttal either. One more time, would ya'll give me your opinion on this 'system'? Also- how would I go about using it? It sounds like I would buy the aircraft Dacron from whomever, then glue it on with whatever (suggestions here?) then shrink it like normal. Then next it seems like folks just apply two or more coats of a good white (Titanium dioxide) latex house paint and call it good. Yes, I know many people have used black paint first with white on top of that. Do you suppose I would have trouble getting approved with this, at my next airworthiness inspection? Is it 'legal'? Or is it up to the whim of the inspector? Thanks! GeoB ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Matronics Email List Services ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Post A New Message kolb-list@matronics.com UN/SUBSCRIBE http://www.matronics.com/subscription List FAQ http://www.matronics.com/FAQ/Kolb-List.htm Web Forum Interface To Lists http://forums.matronics.com Matronics List Wiki http://wiki.matronics.com Full Archive Search Engine http://www.matronics.com/search 7-Day List Browse http://www.matronics.com/browse/kolb-list Browse Digests http://www.matronics.com/digest/kolb-list Browse Other Lists http://www.matronics.com/browse Live Online Chat! http://www.matronics.com/chat Archive Downloading http://www.matronics.com/archives Photo Share http://www.matronics.com/photoshare Other Email Lists http://www.matronics.com/emaillists Contributions http://www.matronics.com/contribution ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- These Email List Services are sponsored solely by Matronics and through the generous Contributions of its members.