It’s time for GA to borrow from other industries to update its technology.
Visser's Voice
Standing still too long
Columnist Ben Visser contends the general aviation industry has been standing still way too long. It’s time to focus on new technology — and a younger customer base.
What’s the best oil for a vintage engine?
A reader asks our oils expert what is the best oil for his 1930 Kinner B-5 engine.
Why general aviation liability insurance is so high
A lack of knowledge of general aviation, as well as aircraft technology, often leads to juries awarding huge sums to plaintiffs, even when a plane crash isn’t the fault of the manufacturer.
Concern for the bottom line hurts general aviation
When I got out of college in 1967 and started work, most companies were run by technical people who supported research and development. In the lab we were allowed a lot of latitude to work on related projects that may not have an immediate payout. This lasted for a few years, but with the change […]
Synthetic greases and your aircraft
Lately, I have received numerous questions about grease. The general theme of most of them is “why can’t I use synthetic grease from the local parts store in my aircraft?” Synthetic lubricants are one of the present “now” or “buzz” words. If a lubricant is synthetic, people believe it will last forever and lubricate anything. […]
Unleaded avgas: A hot button issue
In a previous column, CYA, the FAA and the new unleaded avgas, I discussed the problems the FAA may have with the new proposed unleaded 100 octane avgas. In addition to the lower octane characteristics of the avgas, one of the big concerns is exhaust valve recession. I received a number of responses to the […]
What is the best oil temperature for my engine?
Running at 245° may be OK during break-in or during climb out, but I do not recommend running continuously at cruise condition at this temperature after your engine is broken-in.
CYA, the FAA and the new unleaded avgas
Many years ago, I received some great advice from several friends at Continental Motors. They told me that the way to deal with the FAA was as follows: First, find the right person to deal with. You need to find someone who has dealt with similar types of approvals. Do your homework and do not […]