|
Dacron Fabric
One of the reasons for the Challenger's popularity is its quick build time. This is a
result of using dacron sailcloth and heat shrink dacron. Both of these fabrics if left
unprotected, can loose 90 per cent of their strength in as little as a year.
Check the
colour of your fabric! The wings fabric colour should be the same colour top and bottom.
If the top side of the wing is faded, compared to the underside it should be checked using
a Maule tester or the "Quicksilver" tester.
For more information on how to
properly test the fabric contact someone knowledgeable in the industry such as
LEAF,CPS,
Gunnar Sails etc.
Two ways of protecting the fabric include using a UV resistant paint barrier, or
applying Stits A0-100 which is a clear coat which goes over the fabric.
GROSS WEIGHT
Many Challenger owners have bought their aircraft to fly on floats. While the reported
empty weight of a Challenger 11 is 300 lbs infield experience has shown that most craft
actually weight in closer to 440 lbs when equipped as most pilots want them.
Lets add the weights up using the published empty weight:
- Aircraft 300 lbs
- Pilots 350 lbs
- Fuel 50 lbs
- Floats 150 lbs
- Total 850 lbs
Published Gross weight limit for a Challenger 11 is 800 lbs.
Now lets add the weights up using the REAL empty weight:
- Aircraft 450 lbs
- Pilots 360 lbs
- Fuel 80 lbs
- Floats 160 lbs
- Total 1050 lbs which is 25% or 200
lbs over the gross weight!
Again the published Gross weight limit for a Challenger 11 is 800 lbs.
Remember this GROSS weight is for a basic Challenger not one decked out with electric
start, paint, instruments, battery, doors etc.
Also check out Troubleshooting the Rotax engine series vol
1
Also check out Troubleshooting the Rotax engine series vol 2
|
