Need Advice on Flying 7ECA on Skis

[Cowboys Air Ranch 84ME]

Howdy from Maine,

If you are like me, then you may procrastinate on doing things in a timely manner. Well, winter is here and I have still not gotten the skis mounted on my 7ECA as of yet. Winter is cold and trying to get out flying so I do not loose my edge besides, it seems like a lot of fun.

Anyway, I did purchase a set of Federal A2000A straight skis and had them painted. I did get a set of drawings from ACA to make the rigging for my 7ECA, and some of the hardware needed has been purchased or manufactured. Now, I need to get to the task of installing the components and have it signed off.

I was browsing the internet and see that some "Ski Plane" fly-ins are being scheduled and I am getting my ambition back. Digging everything out, seeing what I have to still acquire for parts and such. One thing I am still looking for is the older style bungee ends. (Pic Attached). I have been told from local folks I know that the newer style ends that do not have the safety ring can be prone to disconnecting the bungee from the ski. Some folks tape the open end with electrical tape.

I am looking for a pair of these "Older Style" bungee hooks. If you have a set or know where to find any, please let me know.

Now to my other question, does anyone on here fly straight skis on a under powered 7ECA w/ 115hp Lycoming? I have been told that I will need a lot more runway (Ground Roll) for take off in powder, and about the same amount of runway of snow is hard and packed. But if Icy, stopping could be twice the length as compared to summer and not using brakes.

Have I been advised correctly? I have flown with tires from ice/snow on a lake (Pic Attached) or just light snow on the runway (about 3 inchs or so), but ski flying will be different.

Am I missing anything? Any input or experiences you have would be greatly appreciated.

Ken "COWBOY" Winiarski
Cowboys Air Ranch (84ME)

 

[Tangogawd]

Not sure where you can find those bungee clips. Haven't seen those in a long time. Most folks here in AK use Atlee metal springs.

I used to own a 7ECA with federal 2500's. I would say that description of performance is in the ball park

 

[Cowboys Air Ranch 84ME]

Not sure where you can find those bungee clips. Haven't seen those in a long time. Most folks here in AK use Atlee metal springs.

I used to own a 7ECA with federal 2500's. I would say that description of performance is in the ball park

Howdy,

The Atlee Dodge springs are not certified for my Citabria. The FAA is not willing to do a field approval, or so I have been told by several mechanics.

I have also know that there is no "Common Sense" in the FAA in the lower 48 states. But, where I live in northern Maine, it is very rural and most strips are un-improved gravel, grass or other and very short. I guess we could compare it somewhat to Alaska, but not really, definately not like central or southern New England Region.

This is why I am asking around, trying to find anyone who is flying Federal A2000A skis with springs so we can demonstrate to the FAA that it is feasible and flying already. Guess Bungee Shock Cords till then.

Thanks or the advice.

Ken "COWBOY" Winiarski
Cowboys Air Ranch (84ME)

 

[Tangogawd]

AC 43.13-2B is your approval for use of springs. It's approved data when properly referenced on the 337. No field approval needed. This has been confirmed with conversations with our ACO.

Per the AC, you have an airplane approved for skis by TC (and STC for that matter) para 503a. You are installing an approved ski, para 503b. And you may substitute springs (with some special considerations) para 505d.

The AC also allows for a wrapped splice for the shock cord, but I have no idea what it would look like. Maybe reach out to the sailing community. A lot of the "old" airplane way is from the marine world.

 

[Cowboys Air Ranch 84ME]

AC 43.13-2B is your approval for use of springs. It's approved data when properly referenced on the 337. No field approval needed. This has been confirmed with conversations with our ACO.

Per the AC, you have an airplane approved for skis by TC (and STC for that matter) para 503a. You are installing an approved ski, para 503b. And you may substitute springs (with some special considerations) para 505d.

The AC also allows for a wrapped splice for the shock cord, but I have no idea what it would look like. Maybe reach out to the sailing community. A lot of the "old" airplane way is from the marine world.

Howdy,

Wow,.... Thanks for that info. I will forward this info to my mechanic and hopefully I can get springs installed.

This is why these forums are so great. Helpful folks and lots of info and advice.

Thanks again.

Ken "COWBOY" Winiarski
Cowboys Air Ranch (84ME)