WSplit Cowl

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: WSplit Cowl

You design and evaluate all three and pick the one that works best.

Hint:
The vertical split has SERIOUS problems. I would prototype a horizontal split and a top cut out to allow the bowl to be dropped straight down with the lower cowl. Problem there is with loosing stiffness for the top cowling and hinges.

Yea, I have already looked at this quite a bit.

Hank

[astjp2]

Re: WSplit Cowl

The big question is...do you split it vertically or horizontally or just remove a section?

[astjp2]

Re: WSplit Cowl

Well lets see, the change does not affect weight and balance (less than half pound), cooling or aerodynamics....Its non structural, soft aluminum, so I don't see a problem, but I find that a 6 ply tire is a change to the type certificate and a major...Tim

[M Towsley]

Re: WSplit Cowl

In my experience a prop removal and reinstallation takes very little time on a Taylorcraft...safety wiring being the longest procedure. I'd guess less than 1/2 hour total.

Gary

My thoughts, exactly.

Tim, you are always a conversation promoter, lol.

[PA1195]

Re: WSplit Cowl

I suppose the effort to R&R the prop depends on if a newer flange hub crank is installed.

Gary

Re: WSplit Cowl

I just remove the hub with the prop on it.

[astjp2]

Re: WSplit Cowl

I just love promoting conversation...

[PA1195]

Re: WSplit Cowl

In my experience a prop removal and reinstallation takes very little time on a Taylorcraft...safety wiring being the longest procedure. I'd guess less than 1/2 hour total.

Gary

[M Towsley]

Re: WSplit Cowl

Hi Dave,

I understand your point, but there would not be a discussion if it were not for someone who apparently needs constant access to the front of the engine. I am curious as to why. I cannot even remember the last time I pulled the nose bowl.

Re: WSplit Cowl

That one doesn't bother me Marty.

More important in my mind is having folks (FAA, I/A, A&P, owner...) understand the regulations and know where to look.

Dave

[M Towsley]

Re: WSplit Cowl

I'm still wondering why one would have to remove the nose cowl that often.

Re: WSplit Cowl

We have to read and digest part 1 and part 43-A. A superficial reading of each alone will result in two different answers about what is a major alt.

Taking part 43 alone will have one conclude that any change to a fairing is a major alt. But taking part 1 and 43-A together can lead to a it a different conclusion.


From part 1;

Major alteration means an alteration not listed in the aircraft, aircraft engine, or propeller specifications�

(1) That might appreciably affect weight, balance, structural strength, performance, powerplant operation, flight characteristics, or other qualities affecting airworthiness; or

(2) That is not done according to accepted practices or cannot be done by elementary operations.

from part 43 appendix A;

(a) Major alterations�(1) Airframe major alterations. Alterations of the following parts and alterations of the following types, when not listed in the aircraft specifications issued by the FAA, are airframe major alterations:

(i) Wings.

(ii) Tail surfaces.

(iii) Fuselage.

(iv) Engine mounts.

(v) Control system.

(vi) Landing gear.

(vii) Hull or floats.

(viii) Elements of an airframe including spars, ribs, fittings, shock absorbers, bracing, cowling, fairings, and balance weights.

(ix) Hydraulic and electrical actuating system of components.

(x) Rotor blades.

(xi) Changes to the empty weight or empty balance which result in an increase in the maximum certificated weight or center of gravity limits of the aircraft.

(xii) Changes to the basic design of the fuel, oil, cooling, heating, cabin pressurization, electrical, hydraulic, de-icing, or exhaust systems.

(xiii) Changes to the wing or to fixed or movable control surfaces which affect flutter and vibration characteristics.

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: WSplit Cowl

Fairing is what I would WANT it to be, but I have a feeling a lot of IAs will disagree.

Hank

[astjp2]

Re: WSplit Cowl

Its a faring so its a Minor alteration, log book entry only. Tim

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: WSplit Cowl

LOTS of people have wanted to, but to my memory, none of us have ever done it. If you decide to pursue it let us know and I am sure there will be a load of suggestions and recommendations.
The modification is a minor problem compared to the paperwork to get it approved.

Hank