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St. Louis Flying Club Newsletter - 31 October 2023

From The President - By Steve

Dear Members,

We have a lot going on right now so I will try and summarize and John and TJ can get into maintenance and financial details below. The insurance company has decided to fix the Arrow so we know where we stand on that issue. Regarding the RV, it appears an overhauled engine is in order. We are looking at a minimum of 6 months down time for each.

The Arrow has no impact on the share value but the premature failure of the RV engine does. The total cost of the new engine in the Cessna is not realized in the current value so that also had a negative impact on share value. Thanks to Pic for his work on the FMV for the Cessna.

Not the best news but we are finally moving forward. I did fly the Cessna and the 180hp is a big improvement. We should have a lot to discuss at our meeting on the 12th and I look forward to seeing you.

Steve

Treasurer's Report - by T.J

BILLING STATEMENT

Comments:

  • Thank you everyone for receipts and payments, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
  • Rate per Hour - Given the persistent higher level in fuel prices, the fact that both the RV and Cessna are burning more fuel, and general increases in the costs of maintenance; we have raised the rate for all three aircraft. Note that the RV and Arrow may be somewhat moot at the moment given they will not be flying for some time, and the Cessna may be tweaked as we learn how much the new engine burns. We will continue to adjust the prices to keep the rates as accurate as possible.

BALANCE SHEET

  • Please note that these financials are as of October 15, so our books are closed before the Cessna went back into service and before the RV engine issues occurred. In addition, note that we have not yet recorded anything related to the Arrow incident as there are still too many unknowns; although it would appear that we are trending toward repairing the Arrow and that insurance will fully cover the loss, thus no impact to our financials.
  • Cash is at an acceptable level for the time being; when we vote on our course of action for the RV, it will likely result in our need for an assessment.
  • There are no other significant items to discuss as of October 15, but expect a lot of discussion at the November 12 club meeting.
  • Please don't hesitate to let me know if you have any questions.

   Maintenance - by John

N202CR RV-7A

  • Engine - The RV was flying great with no signs of any issues. On 23 October, we changed the oil and filter and when we checked the filter, there were numerous pieces of aluminum. We removed the oil sump screen and found several large pieces of aluminum in the screen. Subsequent inspection found a crack in the #4 cylinder and a crack in the case. With the crack in the case and large pieces of metal in the screen, it's time to overhaul the engine. A Lycoming overhaul exchange is the best solution but they currently have a 14 month lead time. Poplar Groves quoted a 6 month lead time. We are also looking at a field overhaul which could be done in a shorter time period.

N20843 Cessna 172M

  • 180 HP Upgrade - The 180HP upgrade and annual inspection were completed on 21 October 2023. An OAT and Manifold Pressure sender were added to the JPI Engine monitor to provide %HP and an oil Pressure sensor was added to warn the pilot of a low oil pressure condition. We are currently using Phillips Mineral Oil for engine break-in. If you need to add oil, use the black oil container with the M on it. The extra 30 HP gives us improved climb and cruise performance. Photo below shows before and after upgrade cruise speeds at 2500 RPM and 2,500 ft altitude.

N2242N Piper Arrow IV

  • The FAA released the Arrow to the club on 27 October. The insurance company approved the repair quotes and authorized us to repair the Arrow. The engine will be removed next week and sent to Poplar Groves Airmotive for the prop strike inspection/overhaul. The RH wing is being prepared for removal and pickup by Flying T Repair in Texas. Flying T will repair and paint the wing, wing tip, lower cowling and nose gear doors. With the Poplar Grove lead time, we estimate the Arrow will be back in service in the June-July 2024 Time Frame.


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