Phillip Owens's Posts - Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers2024-03-28T23:43:27ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwenshttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2197060141?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://zenith.aero/profiles/blog/feed?user=2kjuna0p77rcp&xn_auth=no1st Flight after cooler swaptag:zenith.aero,2011-05-01:2606393:BlogPost:1187112011-05-01T20:40:40.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>Had the opportunity on Friday to get into the air for a test of the new oil cooler. </p>
<p> Lots of traffic and had to spend a lot of time holding short for takeoff, oil temps remained well within limits, Left bank CHT's got a little warmer than I would like but remained within limits. managed to get about .8 hr of flight and landed to check for potential oil leaks. Found one connection that needed tightening and will check it again on the next flight. Minimum loss of oil.</p>
<p>Had the opportunity on Friday to get into the air for a test of the new oil cooler. </p>
<p> Lots of traffic and had to spend a lot of time holding short for takeoff, oil temps remained well within limits, Left bank CHT's got a little warmer than I would like but remained within limits. managed to get about .8 hr of flight and landed to check for potential oil leaks. Found one connection that needed tightening and will check it again on the next flight. Minimum loss of oil.</p>New Positech oil cooler & Mew Manifold pressure guage insalledtag:zenith.aero,2011-04-11:2606393:BlogPost:1142902011-04-11T20:05:39.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>Today we managed to finish the installation of the new Positech Oil cooler and the new manifold pressure guage as well as re fit the cowl. engine has been tested and no leaks were found. Washed down the engine and fuselage with mineral spirits to remove any residual oil from the previous leak.</p>
<p>During the ground run the manifold pressure guage indicated 12" @ 1000 RPMS and 15" @ 1600 RPMS it will be interesting to see what the indications are at the next takeoff. Aircraft has a fixed…</p>
<p>Today we managed to finish the installation of the new Positech Oil cooler and the new manifold pressure guage as well as re fit the cowl. engine has been tested and no leaks were found. Washed down the engine and fuselage with mineral spirits to remove any residual oil from the previous leak.</p>
<p>During the ground run the manifold pressure guage indicated 12" @ 1000 RPMS and 15" @ 1600 RPMS it will be interesting to see what the indications are at the next takeoff. Aircraft has a fixed pitch prop so all indications will be based on direct engine power.</p>
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<p>Had a beautiful day on wednesday 65 degrees and clear skies so opened the hangar and brought out the plane for a short hop after the long winter.</p>
<p>Preflight went normal and I got airborne without a hitch, climbed out and flew for about 45 minutes and CHT temps seemed to be lowering, noted the oil temp seemed to be getting a little hoter than normal so I returned to the field and landed, went into the restraunt for a bowl of soup and when I came out there was oil all over the ground…</p>
<p>Had a beautiful day on wednesday 65 degrees and clear skies so opened the hangar and brought out the plane for a short hop after the long winter.</p>
<p>Preflight went normal and I got airborne without a hitch, climbed out and flew for about 45 minutes and CHT temps seemed to be lowering, noted the oil temp seemed to be getting a little hoter than normal so I returned to the field and landed, went into the restraunt for a bowl of soup and when I came out there was oil all over the ground under the nosewheel,</p>
<p> Pulled the upper cowl and it appears the oil cooler has failed and dumped most of the oil. Manually pulled the plane back to the hangar with the help of a fellow pilot from Milwaukee that was looking at my plane I really appreciated his help.</p>
<p> Pulled the lower cowl also and it was full of oil . Looks more and more like a falied oil cooler. Will drain the remaining oil on friday and send a sample in for analysis and then asses the status of the engine.</p>
<p>Will need to pull the plugs and scope the cylinders to make sure they didn't get scored. Then will check the plugs and adjust the valves and torque the heads again as it is at the 10 hour engine time. New oil filter and new oil are in the mix. Will assess the features of a replacement oil cooler and get it on order. Again welcome to the world of Experimental aircraft. </p>short flight after modifications to plug wires & oil coolertag:zenith.aero,2010-11-23:2606393:BlogPost:817022010-11-23T22:24:03.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
On Monday rolled out the 801 with the cowling off, warmed up the engine and reset the idle to 800 RPM warm, put the cowl back on and added some fuel then rolled to Rwy 22 for another test flight. Plane came off the ground after only a short roll and was climbing at 80 MPH, cylinder temps remained within the limits and noted the oil temp had dropped to 220-240 F and held there, EGT s remained balanced throughout the flight. Flight was very bumpy as a storm was brewing just south of the airport…
On Monday rolled out the 801 with the cowling off, warmed up the engine and reset the idle to 800 RPM warm, put the cowl back on and added some fuel then rolled to Rwy 22 for another test flight. Plane came off the ground after only a short roll and was climbing at 80 MPH, cylinder temps remained within the limits and noted the oil temp had dropped to 220-240 F and held there, EGT s remained balanced throughout the flight. Flight was very bumpy as a storm was brewing just south of the airport and tornado warnings had been issued for northern Ill. With the weather closing in shortened the flight with a fair landing. Looks like we are making progress, another hour and we can torque the heads and re set the rockers again. Good test flight.plug wire changestag:zenith.aero,2010-11-19:2606393:BlogPost:810892010-11-19T22:04:10.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>I had noted the plug wires as originally run appeared to be blocking airflow into and around the cylinders, so to improve the airflow I changed the location and manner in which the plug wires were run. The photos posted are only a few of those that tell the story of the change and I will try to include more photos as allowed. Take notice of the clear air pathway thru the intake plenums and how the plug wires now are barely visable within the plenum. I also made use of the old plug holes to…</p>
<p>I had noted the plug wires as originally run appeared to be blocking airflow into and around the cylinders, so to improve the airflow I changed the location and manner in which the plug wires were run. The photos posted are only a few of those that tell the story of the change and I will try to include more photos as allowed. Take notice of the clear air pathway thru the intake plenums and how the plug wires now are barely visable within the plenum. I also made use of the old plug holes to assist in cooling the crankcase by just installing grommets in the original holes, this will allow air to flow over the top of the crankcase for cooling. The difference looking down the intakes now is dramatic in relation to how it was before a reap positive change.</p>Building time and tweakstag:zenith.aero,2010-11-09:2606393:BlogPost:796512010-11-09T20:51:54.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Now that we have the cylinder head temps within acceptable range I note the oil temp is higer than I would like, so will try opening up the air intake on the oil cooler, since it is baffeled the additional air should go thru the cooler and lower the temp. Will know after the change. Still running on Mineral Oil but temps seem to be stabalizing as we go along. Lets hope the weather cooperates.
Now that we have the cylinder head temps within acceptable range I note the oil temp is higer than I would like, so will try opening up the air intake on the oil cooler, since it is baffeled the additional air should go thru the cooler and lower the temp. Will know after the change. Still running on Mineral Oil but temps seem to be stabalizing as we go along. Lets hope the weather cooperates.Temps within limits Hooray!tag:zenith.aero,2010-10-22:2606393:BlogPost:774772010-10-22T20:30:00.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>Today after adding an additional 1 1/2" to the lip of the left intake and the air temps at about 55F I had two take offs and landings and about 30 minutes of flight. Although the temps hovered around 340 -355 they were still below max allowable for the 1st time.</p>
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<p>Noted that static RPM was over 2500 RPM and takeoffs were quite short, climb out at 80mph and going up FAST! Now that we can operate within temperature tolerances we can start to build some time.</p>
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<p>In…</p>
<p>Today after adding an additional 1 1/2" to the lip of the left intake and the air temps at about 55F I had two take offs and landings and about 30 minutes of flight. Although the temps hovered around 340 -355 they were still below max allowable for the 1st time.</p>
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<p>Noted that static RPM was over 2500 RPM and takeoffs were quite short, climb out at 80mph and going up FAST! Now that we can operate within temperature tolerances we can start to build some time.</p>
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<p>In addition to the addition to the intake lip, I also have added a 4" rubber strip over the glareshield that extends 2" past the previous edge of the glareshield, this is providing additional shade for the instruments and also a buffer in the hopefully rare or never head bump against the dash. Will take some photos and publish them.</p>
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<p>Beginning to feel more comfortable with the plane and landings have improved, but still need lots of work. I must admit for the first time I am beginning to enjoy my efforts of bulding my own plane.</p>
<p>Now I am looking forward to being able to fly off the 40 hrs and go somewhere!</p>1st, 2nd, & 3d Flights Todaytag:zenith.aero,2010-08-20:2606393:BlogPost:689692010-08-20T20:27:55.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Today was the day, not the best of days hot and blustry but clear. Rolled down the runway and lifted off for the 1st time, have to admit I was a bit nervous and pretty shakey but into the air we went turblance and all, managed to get it straightened around and rounded the pattern for the 1st landing, kept the speed up as was suggested by the facory pilot and came in about 80, rolled out and caught my breath and talked over the 1st flight with my A&P, Rolled out for the second flight and…
Today was the day, not the best of days hot and blustry but clear. Rolled down the runway and lifted off for the 1st time, have to admit I was a bit nervous and pretty shakey but into the air we went turblance and all, managed to get it straightened around and rounded the pattern for the 1st landing, kept the speed up as was suggested by the facory pilot and came in about 80, rolled out and caught my breath and talked over the 1st flight with my A&P, Rolled out for the second flight and managed to improve my takeoff some, went around the patch again and came in just a little slower and rolled out to the terminal for lunch with the guys. After Lunch I decided to make the day a tri-fecta and went out for the third flight, take off went ok and things seemed to smooth out some but when I went to call for clearance to land i had no comm!!!! Turned on all my lights and circled outside the area for a short period to get the towers atention and then after clearing the area made a landing on 22, Rolled out to the hangar and called the tower to explain my delima and landing withour clerance, tower advised all was ok and thanked me for calling and advising my situation, fortunatly very little traffic today and none in the area at the time. Next time I will carry by hand held along as a backup. Put the airplane in the hangar and found the comm problem, the hole to the antennae was not large enough to let the connector lock into place, removed the antennae and made the hole larger, put new RTV around the antennae to prevent water leakage and tightned all back in place, comm check was lound and clear so we are ready for the next flight!2011 EAA Air Venturetag:zenith.aero,2010-08-16:2606393:BlogPost:683812010-08-16T00:32:22.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>Joe made a suggestion about Zenith builders flying to and attending the 2011 EAA Air Venture as a mass group, I made a suggestion and Joe asked me to do a blog about it so everyone could read it:</p>
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<p>I am an 801 builder from Beloit, WI operating out of Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport in Janesville,WI (KJVL) your suggestion sounds good to me and I might suggest that if we wanted to have a mass type fly in the airport in Janesville has plenty of room for us to organize, low fuel…</p>
<p>Joe made a suggestion about Zenith builders flying to and attending the 2011 EAA Air Venture as a mass group, I made a suggestion and Joe asked me to do a blog about it so everyone could read it:</p>
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<p>I am an 801 builder from Beloit, WI operating out of Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport in Janesville,WI (KJVL) your suggestion sounds good to me and I might suggest that if we wanted to have a mass type fly in the airport in Janesville has plenty of room for us to organize, low fuel prices, and a good restaurant as well as motel accommodations in the area for those who need to come some distance and may need a break prior to entering the rapid pace of Oshkosh. Just something to think about and add into the pie.</p>
<div>Phil Owens</div>
<div>CH-801 Builder</div>Progress being madetag:zenith.aero,2010-08-02:2606393:BlogPost:666992010-08-02T23:51:49.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>Today I de-magnatized the down tubes of the cabin frame and the area immediatly in front of where the magnetic compass will sit, after checking the area I found I was successful in the de-magnetising process.</p>
<p>For information purposes to other builders I purchased a small hand held de-magnitizer unit from McMaster-Carr for $84.00 and it only took about 6 minutes to do the job. Word of caution I was careful to keep my distance from my Dynon D10A as it has an internal magnatometer that…</p>
<p>Today I de-magnatized the down tubes of the cabin frame and the area immediatly in front of where the magnetic compass will sit, after checking the area I found I was successful in the de-magnetising process.</p>
<p>For information purposes to other builders I purchased a small hand held de-magnitizer unit from McMaster-Carr for $84.00 and it only took about 6 minutes to do the job. Word of caution I was careful to keep my distance from my Dynon D10A as it has an internal magnatometer that could have been damaged.</p>
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<p>I also extended the inside door handles as it was hard for me to reach them in thier original configuration, this also provided an additional protection from opening in flight as they rest along side the seat.</p>
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<p>We started to drain the fuel for an updated weight and balance because we found an error in the previous one and do want to get a correct W&B before the next taxi test.</p>
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<p>Although progress had been slow it has been methodical and I feel more confident about the next set of tests which will probably come next week.</p>
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<p>Had a great time at the Zenith dinner at Air Venture, it was great to see and talk to the other 801 builders and swap info, we even included a 701 driver just to show we were not a disagreeable bunch. We missed Ben Haas as he was in town but had another committment. Larry Landucci as always was very helpful, it is really great to have people like Larry to share information with, and hope we can make the Zenith factory Fly In together in September.</p>
<p></p>Slight delaytag:zenith.aero,2010-06-05:2606393:BlogPost:590462010-06-05T22:54:53.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>The way things work.....went to shut down the engine after the airshow and it didn't want to stop! Had to pull the throttle all the way closed and pull the choke.</p>
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<p>Investigations shows a malfunctioning ignition switch, very intermittent, sometime it will ground out both mags and sometimes only the left mag leaving the right one active. Pulled the switch and made some adjustments, seems to work ok for now but have ordered a new one and will install it as soon as it…</p>
<p>The way things work.....went to shut down the engine after the airshow and it didn't want to stop! Had to pull the throttle all the way closed and pull the choke.</p>
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<p>Investigations shows a malfunctioning ignition switch, very intermittent, sometime it will ground out both mags and sometimes only the left mag leaving the right one active. Pulled the switch and made some adjustments, seems to work ok for now but have ordered a new one and will install it as soon as it arrives.</p>
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<p>Remainder of the pre flight plans are progressing well, arrangements are being made for an updated weight and balance, test protocol for the ELT is being arranged and as soon as we have the new ignition switch installed we will go on with ground testing and taxi tests. I have learned to be patient over the last ten years and that if something is to go wrong...BE PREPARED! will spend some time in the cockpit getting more amiliar with the EFIS and the GPS as well as the radios.</p>
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<p>Don't like the sounds comming from the FAA regarding ADBS as it looks like it will be expensive on top of the new ELT.</p>Young Aviatortag:zenith.aero,2010-06-01:2606393:BlogPost:584122010-06-01T22:27:49.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>Sorry Guys, I got so excited about finishing I forgot to tell you about the young man in the photos.</p>
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<p>This young 4 year old is the son of a contractor who recently did some remodeling for my wife and I, his mom and dad brought him to AirFest 2010 because he is crazy about airplanes, and let me tell you he gets EXCITED!!!!</p>
<p>It has been a long time since I have seen a kid get so excited watching aerobatics and airplanes in general, while he was watching Skip Stewart flop…</p>
<p>Sorry Guys, I got so excited about finishing I forgot to tell you about the young man in the photos.</p>
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<p>This young 4 year old is the son of a contractor who recently did some remodeling for my wife and I, his mom and dad brought him to AirFest 2010 because he is crazy about airplanes, and let me tell you he gets EXCITED!!!!</p>
<p>It has been a long time since I have seen a kid get so excited watching aerobatics and airplanes in general, while he was watching Skip Stewart flop his bi-plane all over the sky he was jumping up and down, clapping his hands and laughing like there was no tomorrow, with a smile that went beyond his ears.</p>
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<p>So Have hope fellows there are still kids interested in airplanes!</p>Finished and on display at SW AirFest 2010tag:zenith.aero,2010-05-31:2606393:BlogPost:582082010-05-31T17:43:57.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
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<p>Finally finished the long projest on Friday June 28th 2010! Put the prop on and wired it for the last time before flight testing, Not able to do any testing as the Airshow started on Friday also but we will be on display all weekend. Granted I am not as fast as the US Air Force Thunderbirds or the Canadian Snowbirds, I can't flop around the sky like Skip Stewart or make the graceful moves of the Big Red…</p>
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<p>Finally finished the long projest on Friday June 28th 2010! Put the prop on and wired it for the last time before flight testing, Not able to do any testing as the Airshow started on Friday also but we will be on display all weekend. Granted I am not as fast as the US Air Force Thunderbirds or the Canadian Snowbirds, I can't flop around the sky like Skip Stewart or make the graceful moves of the Big Red Stearman, But, I can get off the ground a lot shorter and get into and out of places they can only dream about so all evens out Low and slow is my motto! I was a great weekend and there were a lot of folks that came to view my airplane and ask a lot of questions so it was a real win,win situation for Zenith and Jabiru. We will be doin ground andslow speed taxi for the next two weeks while I get more acquainted with the full operation of both the Anywhere Map ATC GPS and the Dynon D-10A before I take to the air, I expect the first flight to be perhaps sometime the second week. Looking forward to that as it has been a long time comming. I hope you enjoy the photos, will send more later.</p>
<p>I also had the opportunnty to make one young man's dreams come true, I don't remember the last time I saw a 4 Year old kid get so excited about airplanes as this young man, he was smiling from ear to ear all day an jumping up and down clapping his hands during the aerobatics of Skip Stewart, What a joy to watch!<br/></p>
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<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img width="721" alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2231352477?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024"/></p>Cowling finally finished!tag:zenith.aero,2010-05-25:2606393:BlogPost:577142010-05-25T20:18:15.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Well, the day has finally come, finished the cowling over the past two days, final fitting and a primer coat on monday and sanded and put on a coat of white as a base on tuesday. Photos are included. Now to put the prop back on, re-do the weight and balance and start testing. Testing will start with ground runs to check cooling on the ground and other items. First flight just around the corner after almost 11 years of part time work!
Well, the day has finally come, finished the cowling over the past two days, final fitting and a primer coat on monday and sanded and put on a coat of white as a base on tuesday. Photos are included. Now to put the prop back on, re-do the weight and balance and start testing. Testing will start with ground runs to check cooling on the ground and other items. First flight just around the corner after almost 11 years of part time work!Putting on the finishing touches on the last itemtag:zenith.aero,2010-05-17:2606393:BlogPost:569762010-05-17T22:00:00.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
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<p>Well, here it is Monday and we are finally putting on the finishing touches to the last item in the project, the cowl. Kent took two days while I was away and worked on the air intakes, today we put the finishing fiberglass on the openings. Now all we need is to let the resin harden and we can do the final install.]</p>
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<p>Installed the bottom section today and ran the wires to the oil pan heater and the battery maintainer, put the holding…</p>
<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left"><img width="721" alt="" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2131539068?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024"/></p>
<p>Well, here it is Monday and we are finally putting on the finishing touches to the last item in the project, the cowl. Kent took two days while I was away and worked on the air intakes, today we put the finishing fiberglass on the openings. Now all we need is to let the resin harden and we can do the final install.]</p>
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<p>Installed the bottom section today and ran the wires to the oil pan heater and the battery maintainer, put the holding washers on the cam-locks in the lower cowl.</p>
<p>It dosen't look like we will be airborne before the airshow but will be finished enough to be on display. first flight will have to come after the show.</p>
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<p>Now to make prep for first flight and flight testing.</p>
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<p>Just noticed, if you look closely at the photos of the lower right side of the cowling in the photos section you can see the fairing that was done to maximize airflow around the exhaust and center strut, this will prevent a positive air pressure buildup on the inside of the cowl. I will take photos of the bottom later for a better view.</p>Getting closer all the timetag:zenith.aero,2010-05-01:2606393:BlogPost:555652010-05-01T01:22:16.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Today was a day to get closer to the first flight, the new fittings arrived for the oil cooler and were installed back on the airplane, oil and filter were changed, Added the forward bumper buffer for the top cowl by using a small rubber hammer, cut off the handle, and cut a 1/2" piece of plywood in a cirlce just larger than the hammer , screwed the two together and fiberglassed it onto the top of the cowl, when inverted into the normal position the base of the rubber hammer will just rest on…
Today was a day to get closer to the first flight, the new fittings arrived for the oil cooler and were installed back on the airplane, oil and filter were changed, Added the forward bumper buffer for the top cowl by using a small rubber hammer, cut off the handle, and cut a 1/2" piece of plywood in a cirlce just larger than the hammer , screwed the two together and fiberglassed it onto the top of the cowl, when inverted into the normal position the base of the rubber hammer will just rest on the top of the engine block, this will provide positive support for the forward part of the top cowl. Added two 1/2' wide wood support strips to the center top of the cowl to minimize the flexing as the top of the cowl is almost 6' in length, We are also adding similar wood support strips to each side of the lower cowl to minimize the flexing when closing the cam locks. On the lower right side of the cowl we have made and added a small box with a door and an opening in the bottom, power cabels to the oil pan heater and the battery maintainer will be housed in this box and allow access without having to remove the lower cowling. Little by little it is all coming together and we need to stop making minor changes and get it done! Will be posting photos soon.Finishing the cowltag:zenith.aero,2010-04-15:2606393:BlogPost:538432010-04-15T21:49:27.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Monday installed the oil dipstick door and did the layup for the box that will hold the wires that lead to the oil pan heater and the battery maintainer, This box will be fiberglassed on the inside of the lower cowl on the right side of the airplane and an access door will be installed also. It appearswe will need to add some rubber gasketing around the base of the cowl for a better fit of the camlocks. Then it is on to finishing the air intakes and baffles to direct the airflow into the intake…
Monday installed the oil dipstick door and did the layup for the box that will hold the wires that lead to the oil pan heater and the battery maintainer, This box will be fiberglassed on the inside of the lower cowl on the right side of the airplane and an access door will be installed also. It appearswe will need to add some rubber gasketing around the base of the cowl for a better fit of the camlocks. Then it is on to finishing the air intakes and baffles to direct the airflow into the intake tubes for proper cooling of the cylinders. Then an oil change with a filter and we are ready for taxi and flight testing!!!!! OH JOY!Getting Real close to flyingtag:zenith.aero,2010-04-09:2606393:BlogPost:532002010-04-09T22:55:13.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<p>Well here we are, spring is upon us and we are making progress, the cowling is back from the fiberglass shop and we have fit and installed the camlocks, some we will need to change to a smaller stud, I goofed on the measurement before ordering. left to do now are the two door openings, one for the oil dipstick and the other for the oil pan heater and battery maintainer. flush out and finish the air intakes and the cowl is complete. Have the latest update from Dynon to install, but that is…</p>
<p>Well here we are, spring is upon us and we are making progress, the cowling is back from the fiberglass shop and we have fit and installed the camlocks, some we will need to change to a smaller stud, I goofed on the measurement before ordering. left to do now are the two door openings, one for the oil dipstick and the other for the oil pan heater and battery maintainer. flush out and finish the air intakes and the cowl is complete. Have the latest update from Dynon to install, but that is just a computer upgrade which takes only a couple of minutes.</p>
<p>last but not least re-mount the prop and re-do the weight and balance before test flight. First flight around the corner after over 10 years of work. Joy of Joys! Will have to take photos and video fo you all and try to get some good sound to go with it, the 8 cyl Jabiru has a unique and beautiful sound to it.</p>Latest Updatetag:zenith.aero,2010-02-05:2606393:BlogPost:466332010-02-05T00:44:51.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Finished the holes and splitting of the prototype cowl on Monday, 2/1/10 and loaded the two halves in the car for delivery. Wednesday 2/3/10 was bright and sunny but cold, my wife and I made the trip to Weauwega to deliver the protoype cowl to the factory for final layup. They are loaded with work so I do not expect to see the finished product probably until March. Weather is still cold and I have not installed a heater so will wait for better weather anyway. It was a long day 3 hrs driving…
Finished the holes and splitting of the prototype cowl on Monday, 2/1/10 and loaded the two halves in the car for delivery. Wednesday 2/3/10 was bright and sunny but cold, my wife and I made the trip to Weauwega to deliver the protoype cowl to the factory for final layup. They are loaded with work so I do not expect to see the finished product probably until March. Weather is still cold and I have not installed a heater so will wait for better weather anyway. It was a long day 3 hrs driving each way but well worth it. will keep all posted on the results.Cowling progresstag:zenith.aero,2010-01-09:2606393:BlogPost:443472010-01-09T21:08:21.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Picked up the first version of the cowl for trimming and splitting on the 4th of January. Hangar doors are frozen shut, for now we will have to either wait for thaw or chip it open. Then we can fit and cut the first version. Meanwhile cowl is stored at Balckhawk Aviation maintnance. Weather is supposed to warm up next week a little so maybe we will get lucky and have an opportunity to work on it. Progress is at hand!
Picked up the first version of the cowl for trimming and splitting on the 4th of January. Hangar doors are frozen shut, for now we will have to either wait for thaw or chip it open. Then we can fit and cut the first version. Meanwhile cowl is stored at Balckhawk Aviation maintnance. Weather is supposed to warm up next week a little so maybe we will get lucky and have an opportunity to work on it. Progress is at hand!Strut Fairings and coverstag:zenith.aero,2009-11-29:2606393:BlogPost:397912009-11-29T03:27:05.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
After some tweaking and twitching we have finished the strut fairings and the covers around the atachment points. Came out looking pretty good considering we didn't have a clue when we started. It did appear as though the factory bend on one of the fairings was slightly off and we needed to tweak it into place. Now if only I can get the cowling guy to get in gear and finish it!<br />
<br />
We have had some great weather lately and I am missing it!
After some tweaking and twitching we have finished the strut fairings and the covers around the atachment points. Came out looking pretty good considering we didn't have a clue when we started. It did appear as though the factory bend on one of the fairings was slightly off and we needed to tweak it into place. Now if only I can get the cowling guy to get in gear and finish it!<br />
<br />
We have had some great weather lately and I am missing it!Added the VG'stag:zenith.aero,2009-09-21:2606393:BlogPost:328982009-09-21T22:07:55.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
As suggested by factory personel I added the vg's to the tail today, easy job just time consuming. Since I have the short tail it seemed like a good idea.
As suggested by factory personel I added the vg's to the tail today, easy job just time consuming. Since I have the short tail it seemed like a good idea.Great time at the Zenith Hanagar Daystag:zenith.aero,2009-09-21:2606393:BlogPost:328552009-09-21T00:48:56.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Enjoyed my time at the Zenith hangar days 2009, fist time back since I picked up my kit in 2000. Appreciated all of the events that the factory folks provided, obtained lots of information from various folks and vendors and met a lot of really nice people. Thanks to Nick for giving me the 801 instructional ride prior to my first flight, I have a lot better idea of what to expect and am sure the first flight will be exciting. I had just completed my bi-annual flight review in a cessna 172 prior…
Enjoyed my time at the Zenith hangar days 2009, fist time back since I picked up my kit in 2000. Appreciated all of the events that the factory folks provided, obtained lots of information from various folks and vendors and met a lot of really nice people. Thanks to Nick for giving me the 801 instructional ride prior to my first flight, I have a lot better idea of what to expect and am sure the first flight will be exciting. I had just completed my bi-annual flight review in a cessna 172 prior to going to hangar days and I believe the 801 was more stable and easier to fly that the 172, what a surprise....I like it! Now if only I can get my fiberglass man to get off dead center and finish the cowl we can get on with the flying.<br />
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As suggested we will be installing the VG's on the tail this week as I have the old short tail.A lesson Learnedtag:zenith.aero,2009-09-14:2606393:BlogPost:323372009-09-14T21:48:57.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Washed the airplane on friday and lost the communications with the tower. After returning to the hangar removed the antenna and found small amountof water under the rubber gasket. Dried outall of the water and let the antenna dry out until monday. Checked with the tower and had a good signal. Made a new rubber gasket thicker than the original, put RTV Silicone on the gasket materiel as well as the base of the antenna, also sealed the top and connection point of the antenna whip and base with…
Washed the airplane on friday and lost the communications with the tower. After returning to the hangar removed the antenna and found small amountof water under the rubber gasket. Dried outall of the water and let the antenna dry out until monday. Checked with the tower and had a good signal. Made a new rubber gasket thicker than the original, put RTV Silicone on the gasket materiel as well as the base of the antenna, also sealed the top and connection point of the antenna whip and base with RTV. Re-installed the antenna and checked with the tower, Great 5 by 5 comm check.<br />
Suggestion, when installing the comm antenna for the first time be sure to use an RTV sealant to eliminate any possibility of water intrusion, it only takes a very small amount to bring your signal from very strong to almost nothing. Lesson learned!<br />
<br />
As an additional note we taxied to the Jet Center where we washed the plane and the 180 HP Jabiru just wanted to GO!<br />
had to throttle back seriously to keep it on the ground, No High speed taxi for this bird or it will be in the air! Sounds fantastic, Wanted to bring it to Mexico, Mo this year but my fiberglass man let me down and the cowling is not yet finished. Don;t want to mess up the 8 Cyl Jabiru so will just have to wait until it is done.Good news for an old mantag:zenith.aero,2009-08-22:2606393:BlogPost:303772009-08-22T21:48:34.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Whooopeeee! passed the medical exam with flying colors, now to get back into the air and get the bi-annual review under the belt, then on to mexico,Mo for additional flight instruction with the factory team prior to first flight. Hot dog, now if I can get the guy making the cowl to get off dead center and get it done we can fly!
Whooopeeee! passed the medical exam with flying colors, now to get back into the air and get the bi-annual review under the belt, then on to mexico,Mo for additional flight instruction with the factory team prior to first flight. Hot dog, now if I can get the guy making the cowl to get off dead center and get it done we can fly!More to do while waiting for the cowltag:zenith.aero,2009-08-11:2606393:BlogPost:291972009-08-11T00:53:25.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Since we are still waiting for the cowl we decided to take advantage of the time and have completed the flaperon trim, now we are installing the strut fairings. This is turning out to be an interesting addition, figuring out how to set the correct angles and lock the fairings in place, so far so good made good progress today on the front one of the left wing. Friday will be another day, weather is supposed to be nice after all the rain.
Since we are still waiting for the cowl we decided to take advantage of the time and have completed the flaperon trim, now we are installing the strut fairings. This is turning out to be an interesting addition, figuring out how to set the correct angles and lock the fairings in place, so far so good made good progress today on the front one of the left wing. Friday will be another day, weather is supposed to be nice after all the rain.Upgrades alreadytag:zenith.aero,2009-07-07:2606393:BlogPost:264672009-07-07T00:43:11.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Well here we are again and this time it is all about an upgrade to the 801. After talking to Larry Landucci and Bill Rewey during the air show I decided to add the flaperon/aileron trim tab. So here we are hard at work making more parts and cutting, fitting, pulling wires etc.etc.etc. you know how it goes. So far all is going according to plan and no hiccups encountered yet. Should have it finished by next monday since we only are working on monday and fridays now. Still waiting for the cowling…
Well here we are again and this time it is all about an upgrade to the 801. After talking to Larry Landucci and Bill Rewey during the air show I decided to add the flaperon/aileron trim tab. So here we are hard at work making more parts and cutting, fitting, pulling wires etc.etc.etc. you know how it goes. So far all is going according to plan and no hiccups encountered yet. Should have it finished by next monday since we only are working on monday and fridays now. Still waiting for the cowling to be finished by Rattray Aircraft, they do great work it just takes them forever to get anything done. Looking forward to a Friday AM meeting with the FAA for the Repairmans Certificate process hope it goes well.We Can FLY!!!!tag:zenith.aero,2009-06-06:2606393:BlogPost:241752009-06-06T03:02:41.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
<b>The day has finally arrived June 6th 2009 the FAA has granted an Airworthiness Certificate to N84349!!!</b><br />
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After 9 long years we are about to fly, just a few minor touch ups are needed and last minute completion of a new cowl and we can be airborne!!!!<br />
<br />
For those of you who are still building don't give up keep a it and the day will arrive!<br />
<br />
I want to say thenk you to all who have helped make this a reality, Zenith for designing a grreat airplane and providing such great support, Jabiru…
<b>The day has finally arrived June 6th 2009 the FAA has granted an Airworthiness Certificate to N84349!!!</b><br />
<br />
After 9 long years we are about to fly, just a few minor touch ups are needed and last minute completion of a new cowl and we can be airborne!!!!<br />
<br />
For those of you who are still building don't give up keep a it and the day will arrive!<br />
<br />
I want to say thenk you to all who have helped make this a reality, Zenith for designing a grreat airplane and providing such great support, Jabiru for a fanastic smooth performing engine, Dynon for the EFIS, Anywheremap for the GPS, Microair for Radio and transponder, IK Technologies for the engine instrument package, Craig Catto for a fantastic custom 3-blade prop, my loyal A&P asistant kent Van Galder, Blackhawk Technical College and the staff, the Cadets of the Wisconsin Aviation Academy who were a great help and inspiration in the early part of the build. My Wife for having the patientce to put up with my antics and making the seat cushions, Nick and Joe Quinn of Blackhawk maintnance for allowing me touse and borrow specialized tools and tooling when needed as well as great advice, Archie Henkleman the EAA Technical Counselor who made sure I stayed on the right path. I sure hope I haven't missed anyone if I have believe me you are included. THANKS!!!2009 Southern Wisconsin AirFesttag:zenith.aero,2009-06-06:2606393:BlogPost:241732009-06-06T02:50:34.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
History has been made I believe, we had three CH-801's all in the same place at the same time on display for the folks to see. This year Larry landucci, Bill Rewey, and Phil Owens all had 801's on display at the show. It was an amazing weekend with about 60,000 people in attendance to see the Navy Blue Angels, F-18 Hornets, F-16's,P-51' Fat Albert (C-130), Patty Wagstaff, Navy Leap Frogs, Army Golden Knights, Shockley's Jet Truck, Pitts specials, Stearman Bi-plane and the list goes on. It was…
History has been made I believe, we had three CH-801's all in the same place at the same time on display for the folks to see. This year Larry landucci, Bill Rewey, and Phil Owens all had 801's on display at the show. It was an amazing weekend with about 60,000 people in attendance to see the Navy Blue Angels, F-18 Hornets, F-16's,P-51' Fat Albert (C-130), Patty Wagstaff, Navy Leap Frogs, Army Golden Knights, Shockley's Jet Truck, Pitts specials, Stearman Bi-plane and the list goes on. It was surprising the number of people who took the time to come over and look at out aircraft and ask questions, it seems we were a bit if a hit and we had a great time. Larry almost had the chance to give a three star Admiral a ride but other obligations got in the way, maybe next time.Awaiting inspetiontag:zenith.aero,2009-05-28:2606393:BlogPost:235882009-05-28T20:05:26.000ZPhillip Owenshttps://zenith.aero/profile/PhillipOwens
Well the day has finnalt arrived, the paperwork has been sent in for inspection, now we just await the call and set the date. It has been a ong time in coming. This week end there is the annual SWAirFest airshow at the Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport and the NAVY BLUE ANGELS ARE THE FEATURED ATTRACTION. However there will also be three CH-801's on display for the folks to see, Larry Landuchi and Bill Rewey are going to fly in and display their aircraft with mine so it will be a great…
Well the day has finnalt arrived, the paperwork has been sent in for inspection, now we just await the call and set the date. It has been a ong time in coming. This week end there is the annual SWAirFest airshow at the Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport and the NAVY BLUE ANGELS ARE THE FEATURED ATTRACTION. However there will also be three CH-801's on display for the folks to see, Larry Landuchi and Bill Rewey are going to fly in and display their aircraft with mine so it will be a great showing. looks like Larry might also get a chance to give a Navy Admiral a ride in his 801, more to come on that after the weekend. All in all things are coming together and we are looking forward to test flight time. Let you all know how it goes.