The International Cessna 170 Association

Compact car interior heaters such as the "Little Buddy" have been in use in my part of the world for a long time. Just set the heater in the bottom of the cowling. Put your engine cover, thrift store sleeping bag, or whatever, over the cowling to keep the heat in, and plug in the heater. U...

As a point of reference, I have recently noticed two separate ads for Federal 2500's. Each set was listed for $2500. May or may not have 170 rigging. The cable attach fittings are available from FA Dodge in Anchorage. They also sell springs that are used in place of the original bungee cords. It is ...

It takes three things to keep an internal combustion engine running. Fuel, air, and ignition. Well, we are blessed with plenty of fresh air here in Alaska, so that isn't generally a problem. Aircraft engines are equipped with two ignition systems just so that a failure of one system doesn't automati...

I did like the idea of recycling the boat as a pair of floats. Now if you can find another wheelbarrow, I'm thinking you are well on your way to having a pair of wheel skis as well. Rube Goldberg would be proud of you!

Just a note for anyone who may be considering a Lycoming conversion, there is a kit for sale on the Anchorage "C" list site. It doesn't say which STC it is for but does appear to be pretty complete, less engine and prop. Does have an engine mount according to the ad.

If you are an Association member you can go to the MX Library section of this forum. You will find several discussions of Cleveland wheels and 8.50 x 6 tires and the necessary approvals that are available. Membership has its rewards! Isn't that somebody's advertising slogan?
Bill

Clearly a good day for both of you. Congratulations!

There is a Susan Prall of Jewett, TX, who advertises Franklin parts and service on the big aviation sales website. 903-626-5115. I have no experience with this person myself. I've just seen the ads. I have flown a '52 B model with the 165 Franklin. Good airplane. I thought it was interesting that th...

Just checked today on the airframe innovations seats. They are PMA seats currently STC'd for the later model 180's and 185's. Approval for 170's, early 180's, 172's etc. is expected this spring. Look like a nice lightweight, quick to install and remove option.
Bill

You may want to consider the individual rear seats that my friend Karl makes for 170's and 180's. Reach him at 9O7 4578359. Or at airframeinnovations dot com.
Bill

I recently flew a 1952 B model with the 165 Franklin engine. Interestingly enough, that particular airplane was converted to the Franklin when it was only about 6 months old. Apparently the owner specifically wanted that engine "upgrade". And, 65 years later it is still motoring along.

If shopping for an ELT I would urge caution with the American-King AK-451 series. I know of several uncommanded activations with these. Middle of the night trips to the hangar to turn the darn thing off. That sort of thing. On the plus side, Search and Rescue could tell right where the plane was, ev...

A good friend of mine flys out of Beaver Island, MI. I haven't been there yet, but it sounds like a great place to visit.
Bill

I looked at the Cleveland brakes on a couple of 170's today. I will try to describe what I am seeing and maybe you can tell how it relates to your problem. Standing under the wingtip, looking at the wheel assembly, the brake caliper should be at the 9:00 o'clock, or 3:00 o'clock position relative to...

The wheel and brake setup was already on my plane when I got it so I can't speak to any changes that might have been involved there. The shims that fit between the gear leg and the axle are for wheel alignment. They are tapered and put on in whatever orientation that is needed to achieve proper whee...