CPS Newsletter : 

October 2020 Issue

So we move from Summer to Fall.   We get some gentle reminders of the change in seasons on our first trip to the airport when the temperatures require a sweatshirt for a comfortable pre-flight followed by that surprising boost in performance when the airplane literally jumps off the ground, inspired by the extra power available.  Cooler temps, more performance, and a Jackie Gleason-like "and awayyyyy we go"!

It's been a strange year to put it gently.  If you've not been flying much or at all, now is a terrific time to really consider the return to the cockpit and to currency.  Most of the USA still has decent light available through most of the day, but that window slowly closes as we move towards the winter solestice.  When Winter hits in full force, you want to be sharp and ready since the weather may interrupt your plans to catch up on those landings, manuvers, and overall ability to meld your skills with the aircraft capabilities so that your full team is on the same page. 

Some will need to brush up and that could mean engaging an instructor.  The confines of a GA aircraft do not permit social distancing so just to play it safe, most folks will consider (and some might insist on) a masks-on policy for all parties. You might need to play with the mic distances on the headsets or set the squelch break point on older audio panels, but that is the work of but a few seconds. 
Don't be surprised or disappointed if there is some mild rust on the tools, for that is the nature of the beast.  It polishes off quickly, and nicely.  Below that bit of grit lies your talents, hard won, patient and potent. 

Those that have been flying regularly have been finding spotlessly clean FBOs and personnel that have welcomed their visits.  Fuel is relatively inexpensive across the bulk of the USA at this time so while Cross Country travel has some additional considerations to take into account, this Fall presents us with some unique opportunities.  The sky still belongs to us, the people we meet along the way are often remarkable for their willingness to be of help to the wayward traveler, and remind us to bring out our best when strangers cross our paths.

Peppered through this Newsletter are some pictures that have been shared by our fellow CPS Members.  No matter where you call home, the view from above is yours but for the sake of pulling out the airplane. 

In the early part of the day, when you can see your breath for the first time of the season while doing your pre-flight, magic happens.  Remember to take a a moment to share your flights on our Forums.  Your pictures and words take us along on the adventure that is your life, and these are most welcomed.

Preflight complete?  Crack open the side window, scan your surroundings.... "Clear prop"!

Where did you fly Today?

Discussions on our Forums:

170
Welcome Dustin Wilmoth. New 170 in the works?

172

Which Dipstick?

182

Max Leaning Below 65%

SP 470 PPONK

Fuel Bladder Issue

How Does My Instrument Lighting Work?

Vernier Assist Throttle

Testing Vernatherm Out of the Engine

Oil Pressure Transducer Leak

Pilot's Side Door No Longer Stays Open

205/206

Ed from CT (EFC) shows some style by hauling it.  What Can You Fit in Your Airplane?

210

Wingtip Nav/Anti-Collision Lights

210 In-Flight Breakup Question

Swap a new 520 for a 550?

Wingtip anti Collision Lights

P210 Silver Eagle Turbine

Looking for a Testable Motor

210 Blended wingtip nav/strobe

MLG Downlock

Pilot Skill:

IFR Currency

Predicting Visability at Altitude

MOAs

Maintenance

How Much Work can I do With an I.A. Watching?

Chamois Cloth: Natural or Synthetic

How Frequently do you Change Oil?

Suggestions for Paint for Baffling

Motor Flush

 Don T puts us on to a better Grease Gun solution

Buying an Airplane:

My 182 is Gone

Avionics:

ZULU Headset Repair

Need Avionics Advice

KX-155 Replacement Ideas

Garmin 530W Failure

VOR Not Working

Never Again:

T-210 Forced Landing in UT

Destinations:

My Unusual Vacation (N.A.)

General Topics:

ADS-B Exchange Websites

Time for a Trim

Decommissioning an Airplane

Have some books on the shelf gathering dust?  Equipment or Pilot Supplies you'ld like to see continuing in service?  CPS has an exchange thread for items offered 'free'.  Be a mensche...
Exchange Thread

Op Ed: 

Many are quietly aware that every day is a blessing. and tomorrow is never promised.  Just lately, one of our CPS Family had a 'surprise' that thankfully will resolve well.  Take a moment to read his story, and then go make that over-due call to a friend, take a flight just for the sake of flying, hug your spouse/kids/ etc.   "Life is Full of Surprises"

Your stories, ideas, and suggestions for this Newsletter are always welcome.   PM any of the Forum Board Members w your thoughts.

Even if I tried could you be less than an addiction ----Melissa Etheridge

Your CPS Forum Board:  Jeffrey Chipetine, Eric Finley, John Matthews, Greg Wright, Mark Zimmerman.