tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40648380842317500342024-02-07T20:42:14.131-05:00Kennedy Aircraft Service & Repair, LLCClermont,Florida
Oliver (Ollie) and Esther ( Essie) Kennedy
352-255-1400
seareyman53@aol.comOliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-37856438828782401502016-01-13T21:37:00.000-05:002016-01-13T21:37:11.494-05:00<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">There are 2 web sites every Searey owner should know about and belong to. They are the Searey technicle site and the Splash and Dash site. After you purchase a Searey, please make sure to go to <u>searey.us</u> and click on "help" and fill out the form to be a member. You will enjoy connecting with other fellow Searey owners.!</span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-27156334616934230062015-09-13T10:33:00.002-04:002016-01-13T20:09:15.981-05:00<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">We just sold 3 more Searey's in the last month!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Attention Seller's! We are looking for more inventory. We are a family owned and operated full service Sales agent. You will get exceptional service and follow up after closing. Call us today for details! </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">We currently have a Searey Project for sale. If you like to build yourself, we have the answer! A Searey Project! More details to follow or call us, we'd be glad to talk Searey building with you.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #cc0000;">Searey for sale: 2004, Rotax 912ULS and no damage history! Recent extensive condition inspection with all new hoses, fuel line and more. This is a very nice Searey and selling for only $42,500.00</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">This aircraft is listed on Barnstormers.com. SOLD to Russ Hoffman!!! Congratulations Russ!</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-15264546638298709892013-07-11T12:49:00.000-04:002015-09-13T10:01:49.722-04:00Searey and Amphibious Airplane Guru<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gvI8zckfChBB-TsZgXWuVKNUYVsuNFId9jDdsNu7zoaXN_ksuuN0blgo3_H49aA7yQAmiaPgGUj6J0RUjOFzk4x_WtRdNet5IUre36CnMIlw17M_I4CP8k8SDcxw5GvlP4_-P5OfrRk/s1600-h/checklist.jpg"></a><br />
<div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Welcome to the Kennedy Aircraft Service & Repair site! If you are visiting our site, it's because you are also into airplanes as much as I am!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Below is a list of services I can provide for you: </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;">If you have a plane, amphibious, or not, I can repair it, advise you and direct you to other's that can help you in the industry. If you love airplanes, seaplanes, have one, or want one....I also know who is selling or who wants to buy one OR I may just have the plane you're looking for in my hanger! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;">I am an expert aircraft technician, specializing in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Searey's</span> and amphibious planes. I know them inside and out and then some!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;">I inspect, repair, rebuild, and build them. If I can't help you, I know the best in the industry and will refer you!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;">I have been involved in planes the majority of my life, so I am the person to call with your concerns or just "plane" interested in planes!!! You can read on about my history below, or you can skip below to my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">TID</span> BIT'S....bits of advice and mechanical problems solved, hopefully designed to help you.</span><script type="text/javascript">
<!-- google_ad_client = "pub-4850730355337489"; /* 300x250, created 12/19/09 */ google_ad_slot = "9896698518"; google_ad_width = 300; google_ad_height = 250; //</script>
</div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;">I'll continue to add to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">TID</span> BITS on a regular basis, so please check back often. Also included in this blog, will be airplanes that I currently have for sale, along with other hanger "stuff" that I have available. <span style="color: #990000;">Be sure to click on the "Pages" in the top right corner of my blog for planes I have for sale specs and more info!</span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-size: 130%;">The purpose of the blog is to introduce myself, tell you about my history with airplanes and hopefully assist you with your airplane needs and to just share our passion together!</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: blue;"><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Feel free to call me at any time to talk planes!! ....at 352-255-1400......... And, please check out my planes for sale at the bottom of this page. Also, go to the additional link at the right top of this page for all Specs...</span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="background-color: blue;"><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></div>
<span style="color: blue;"><strong><em>Here's a little blog about planes and one man's passion!</em></strong><br />
<br />
<em>My passion is ALSO my BUSINESS! Who else would you trust with your plane repairs, but a mechanic with the experience, passion and knowledge as I have.............read on......</em><br />
<br />
I've been a FAA licensed Airframe and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Powerplant</span> technician since 1979. <strong><em><span style="font-size: 130%;">I walk, talk , eat and breath airplanes!</span></em></strong> My love for airplanes started about at the age of 6 years old and I think my life has revolved around them ever since! If you like to talk airplanes, or just need some good advice, I'm the man for you!<br />
<br />
My career started as an apprentice mechanic in 1975 after serving in the United States <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Airforce</span> as a jet engine mechanic. During my apprenticeship I worked at an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">FBO</span> in Orlando Florida. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">FBO</span> was a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Beechcraft</span> Service Center and I maintained every aircraft that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Beechcraft</span> manufactured. While working at the Center, I spent most of my free time pursuing my Flying ratings. In 1980, I obtained my commercial instrument and multi-engine ratings! I also obtained my seaplane rating in a Lake Amphibian!</span><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>THAT IS WHERE MY ACTUAL LOVE RELATIONSHIP FOR SEAPLANES BEGAN!!</strong></span></span><strong><span style="color: #3366ff;">So.............lets talk planes and water!</span></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">I wasn't able to afford the initial cost of a certified amphibian, so I started looking at experimental amphibians. SO.......In 1982 I built and flew a BUCCANEER <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">XA</span> single place amphibian, which was powered by a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Rotax</span> 447 engine. After flying that one for about 2 years, I purchased a Buccaneer II kit and maintained and flew it for 4 more years. When I sold that plane, I rebuilt another Buccaneer from a <em>wrecked aircraft</em> and flew it until 1993. ( WOW, my love for planes can be expensive, thank goodness I know a good mechanic!)<br />
<br />
A new company opened up that year ( <em>okay Kerry, Wayne and Paige )here is a good plug for you!)</em> called Progressive <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Aerodyne</span> and they designed the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">SEAREY</span>. I JUST HAD TO HAVE ONE!<br />
<br />
So...............I purchased Serial # 2 in 1993! <em>I don't think I slept very much at all for the 2 months it took me to build that airplane! That plane project took the place of anything else in my life, including women, sleep and sometimes food!! My first flight was April 5, 1993!!!</em> <br />
<br />
(<em>The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Searey</span> appearance is very impressive. The wings are sweep back at the leading edge with a straight trailing edge to form a tapered wing. The engine is mounted on top of the wing. The cabin is designed with side by side seating. The dual flight controls enable flying from either seat. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Searey</span> offers stable handling even in gusty wind conditions. You raise the landing gear for water operations. You prepare for ground landing by lowering the landing gear and locking it into place.)</em> For more on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Rotax</span> engine...read below in Ollie's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">TID</span> BIT'S..</span><span style="color: #351c75;">Over the years since then, I have become to be known as the "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">SEAREY</span> GURU". I now have my own Airplane Repair business, KENNEDY AIRCRAFT SERVICE & REPAIR, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">LLC</span> located in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Clermont</span>, FL, on a lake of course....( you fly in, land and taxi up to my hanger)<br />
<br />
I specialize in condition inspections ( everyone must have one every year) and major and minor repairs on experimental aircraft. For service information e-mail me at :</span></strong><a href="mailto:seareyman53@aol.com"><strong><span style="color: #351c75;">seareyman53@aol.com</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #351c75;">. <br />
<br />
Recently I started assisting other Amphibious experimental airplane fanatic's in selling or buying airplanes. If you ever call me, be ready to talk planes and get a lot of free mechanical advice!!! </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #351c75;">Please call me or e-mail if you would like to purchase a plane, have one built or if you have one you would like to sell. Also, always check the bottom of my blog for any <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Searey's</span> or other aircraft I currently have for sale.</span><span style="color: #330033;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #330033;">Photo's of our Hanger and lake are on the right. You can land your plane on the lake and taxi up to our hanger. The lake is 2261 acres, on a chain of 7 lakes. It is a beautiful place to live and when you go through the canals to each lake, it is</span><span style="color: #009900;"> JUST LIKE OLD FLORIDA</span><span style="color: #006600;">!, gators, snakes and all!!</span><span style="color: #000066;"> <em>The scenery is absolutely gorgeous!!</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #330033;"><em></em></span><br />
<span style="color: #330033;">The hanger actually can fit 3 planes in it , 5 without the wings on and one more on the ramp.I've been known to put a few on the grass, but I now in the process of extending the ramp ( since the drought has brought the water level down), it's a great time to add to our airplane area!! </span></strong><br />
<div>
<strong><br />
</strong><br />
<strong><br />
</strong></div>
<strong><span style="color: #009900;">Here are some quotes from satisfied, loyal customers: "O</span><span style="color: #00cccc;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">llie</span> has been a tremendous resource in my search, purchase, and flying of my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Searey</span>, I am very grateful for all his help. Thanks , Tim" "Thanks for taking care of the plane, its nice to know its in good hands. " Tim</span></strong><br />
<div>
<strong><br />
</strong><br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #009900;">Tim's wife also sent a wonderful e-mail of Tim and his fun, SAFE plane!" <span style="color: #00cccc;">Tim got his plane home this weekend. Thought you'd all enjoy seeing the pictures. All three kids are going up with him, Mom is staying grounded. The kids are so excited and Tim has been very safe (or I wouldn't send them up!). They all want to be pilots now. It is a wonderful thing to see the kids and Tim enjoying something so much together. They are making wonderful memories together. I watch from the shoreline but am very proud of them all. I do make Tim check in at every lake. Yesterday he flew to pick Ivy up at a friends house who lives on a nearby lake...she was jumping up and down so proud of her daddy and his toy (it's not a toy she said, it is a plane!). Anyway, hope you enjoy the pictures. Much love to you all</span>,"Kristi</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #009900;">Here are photo's of the happy new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Searey</span> family!</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="http://web.mac.com/kristiovertonjohnson/iWeb/Site/plane.html">http://web.mac.com/kristiovertonjohnson/iWeb/Site/plane.html</a><br />
<span style="color: #330033; font-size: 130%;"><strong>I also have an excellent <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Searey</span> Flight Instructor that I can recommend to you. I have great faith and confidence in him and his skills. Call me and I'll give you his information to contact him!</strong></span><br />
<div>
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #330033;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #330033;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><strong>OKAY, MY <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">SEAREY</span> AND FELLOW AIRPLANE OWNERS, HERE ARE SOME BITS OF ADVICE! LOOK FOR MY "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">TID</span> BIT'S" on a regular BASIS, SO BE SURE TO COME BACK OFTEN!</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #330033;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><strong><span style="color: #6633ff;">OLLIE'S <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">TID</span> BITS # 1 ( look for many more BITS of advice!)</span></strong> "<em>just off the top of my head!" </em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><em>(<span style="font-size: 100%;">As always, consult an expert A&P before utilizing these "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">TID</span> BITS". They are for educational purposes only.)</span></em></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>I've had several customers with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Rotax</span> powered engines either call me or bring their aircraft to me recently who have had problems with their engines running "rough" and not developing full power after they haven't been flown for a while. The immediate fear is that something has gone seriously wrong in the ignition circuit. HOWEVER...... most of the time, the problem boils down to a simple clogged jet in one or both of your carburetors. If the aircraft has not been flown for a period of time, then condensation can form in either the fuel tank or carburetor bowls and when even amounts of water try to pass through the tiny orifices in the main or pilot jets, the engine will falter and run rough. THAT WILL REALLY GET YOUR ATTENTION ON TAKE OFF!!!</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>Most of the time, the fix is relatively simple.........</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>The first step is to remove the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">carb</span> bowls and dump the contaminated fuel out. Now the floats are on a set of pins in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">carb</span> bowl, so make sure you remove the floats before emptying the contaminated fuel out.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>The next step is to remove the main jet and blow it out to remove any debris. It is located in the middle of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">carb</span> and can be removed with an 8mm wrench.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>There is a shim that is very thin that will also come off when the main jet is removed. Make sure you do not lose it! After the main jet has been removed, cleaned, and re-installed, then it is time to clean the pilot jet. This jet is located just forward of the main jet inside that is just about the same length as the tube for the main jet. You can't actually see the jet because it is screwed up inside this tube. It requires a small "common" screwdriver to remove it. This jet is longer than the main jet and has a hole through the center, but also a series of holes in the side of it. Insure all passages or holes in either one of these jets are clear. Also inspect the o ring around the pilot jet and make sure it is serviceable.</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000;">If the aircraft has been sitting for a long period of time, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33">carbs</span> may need to be cleaned to remove the varnish caused by old fuel and rebuilt. I can offer you that service at any time, feel free to call me or e-mail me at <a href="mailto:seareyman53@aol.com">seareyman53@aol.com</a></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><strong><span style="color: #000066;">OLLIE'S <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34">TID</span> BITS #<span style="color: #006600;">2 </span>!</span></strong> </span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_35">Rotax</span> 912S is a great engine for most of the light experimental and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">LSA</span> aircraft on the market today. Boasting an honest 100 H.P. it has a good power-to-weight ratio and a torque curve that makes it a perfect engine for light aircraft use. One of the ways that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">Rotax</span> was able to increase the horsepower from 80 to 100 hp was to increase the compression ratio. The early "S" had problems on initial start up. The starter didn't have enough " oomph" to it to overcome the high compression engine, therefore it put undo stress and wear on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">sprague</span> clutch which acts as a one- way "clutch" and will "free wheel" after the engine starts. After several starts the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">sprague</span> clutch would fail and after about $1500.00 in parts and labor later, the engine was good for another 200 or more so hours. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_40">Rotax</span> came out with a "fix" for the problem by putting on a "high torque" starter. You can tell if you have this starter by looking at the color of it. The original starter had a black outer case and the high torque starter has a silver or gold outer case. This helped the problem some-what, but it still needed help. I think the key to solving the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_41">sprague</span> clutch problem is supplying the starter with enough inertia to spin the engine over fast enough to overcome the high compression. This is done by using a high cranking amps battery and a large enough cable going from the battery to the starter. I recommend a minimum of a #4 cable and a battery that will supply a minimum of 400 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_42">CCA</span>.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">I hope this helps to solve some of the potential starting problems with the 912S. next time ,I'll address the slipper clutch in the 912S.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #000099; font-size: 180%;"><strong>Ollie's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_43">TID</span> BIT #3</strong></span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #000099; font-size: 85%;">I have had several questions recently about the differences between the generation A, B and C hulls on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_44">Searey</span>. I've flown all three hulls on them and even though all three are a manageable hull on landing , the C hull is far Superior to the A and B hulls. The A and B Hulls need to be "driven" onto the water using either power or extra speed which would be compared to a "step" landing on other seaplanes. </span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #000099; font-size: 85%;">With the C hull, you can either do a step landing or a full "stall " landing. The C hull is much more versatile and forgiving in that respect. The other problem with the A hull or the B hull is if you touch down forward of the step, the airplane will not porpoise like most seaplanes will in that configuration, but it will actually get sucked under the water and immediately turn the airplane into a submarine. <span style="font-size: 130%;">That will definitely ruin your whole day!!!!!</span></span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #000099; font-size: 85%;">If you are in the market for a used <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_45">Searey</span> or a kit and you are not familiar with the generation hulls the kit came with, then here is how you can tell at a glance.....</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #000099; font-size: 85%;">The A Hull and B Hulls have a very shallow <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_46">Vee</span> in the hull. If you look at the step area from the side of the hull, the step runs perpendicular to the side of the hull. If you are looking at the front of the hull , the way to tell the difference between the A and the B hulls is.... on the A hull the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_47">strakes</span> will contour the hull at it comes to a point to the bow. The B hull <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_48">strakes</span> do not contour toward the bow.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #000099; font-size: 85%;">The C Hull has a much deeper <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_49">vee</span> and if you look at it from the side at the step area, it <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_50">vee's</span> back toward the transom of the hull.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #000099; font-size: 85%;">If you buy an airplane with an A or B Hull, it can easily ( according to a mechanic) be retrofitted to a C Hull. Just make sure you negotiate the cost of the retrofit into your purchase price . Any questions, Call me!!!</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #003333; font-size: 180%;">Ollie's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_51">TID</span> BITS # 4</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 130%;">Since 1993 the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_52">Searey</span> has gone through an evolution that has made it probably the most versatile experimental amphibians on the market even today. One of the things that has made it such a great and versatile airplane is the strength of their landing gear system. This simple but very rugged system allows the pilot to taxi onto unimproved beaches found on the shorelines of lakes that pilots land on.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #993300; font-size: 130%;">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_53">Searey</span> has four options offered for retraction systems. The manual retraction is the basic standard system offered with the standard kit. This is a simple system that uses a simple"<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_54">johnson</span> bar"</span></strong> <span style="color: #663333;"><strong><span style="color: #993300;">lever between the</span> <span style="color: #993300;">seats to retract the gear. The down side of this system is when <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_55">Searey</span> owners elect to use the optional large main wheels i.e. 6:00x 6 size, the flotation the tires provide in the water make it very difficult to extend the gear in the water. The up side is that it is several pounds lighter than the other gear options.</span></strong></span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #993300;">There are 3 other options offered for the gear <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_56">retractor</span> system. They are the "A" version hydraulic, the "B" version hydraulic</span></strong> <span style="color: #993300;"><strong>and the electric gear which is my personal favorite. The major difference between the A and the B hydraulic gear is the mechanical components used to operate the gear. The earlier or " A" style has more moving parts than the "B" style, therefore making it about 8 pounds heavier than the late "B" style. The only thing I do not like about the B style gear is that it is hot wired directly to the main power bypassing the master switch. The reason it was designed this way, was in the event the gear were to lose a small amount of hydraulic pressure, it would automatically energize the hydraulic activator and keep the gear in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_57">overcenter</span> position. The problem with doing it that way was it technically didn't comply with FAR.43 Appendix D. You must be able to disconnect all electrical power from the aircraft in the event of an in flight emergency, such as an electrical fire. This system has since been redesigned and now incorporates a mechanical lock like the one used on the "A" style gear. These locks weigh only a few ounces which still gives considerable weight savings over the "A" gear. The latest and the greatest design is the electric gear. The mechanical parts are basically the same as the "B" hydraulic gear. The big difference is the use of "ball screw" electric motors, instead of hydraulic actuators. The reason I like this system the best is because there are no hydraulic cylinders to leak down. It's a very reliable system. If you buy a used Searey or build one and decide to go with either the hydraulic or the electric gear, the only other necessary option would be to have the 40 amp external alternator. All three of these systems typically draw approximately 20 amperes when extending the gear in the water. The 10 ampere standard charging system on the Rotax engine doesn't have enough charging capacity to operate the gear more than a few times before it would discharge the battery.</strong></span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #330033;">TIB BITS # 5!!!</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #330033;">Take offs and landings! In this segment of Ollie's tid bits, I'd like to talk about the techniques used for take offs and landings in the Searey.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #330033; font-size: 180%;">OLLIES' TID BIT # 5!!!</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #663366;">Let me start out by telling you about my credentials... I have a commercial instrument, multi- engine and Seaplane rating. I have 1600 hours with approximately 750 hours in tail wheel airplanes and 450 hours Seaplane time. </span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #663366;">The tailwheel airplane's range from Cubs and Champs to about 15 hours in a twin Beech 18. With about 400 hours in the Searey, I feel I am qualified to give advice on the techniques on grass, concrete and water.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #663366;">The Searey handles a little differently, then most tailwheel airplanes on the grass and pavement. Because of the high centerline of thrust, the tail comes up very quickly, when full throttle is applied, therefore reducing rudder authority at slow speed. </span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #663366;">The way to overcome this problem, is to hold the stick full aft while slowly applying full power and using sufficient right rudder to overcome " P factor" . This will allow enough air flow along with prop blast over the tail surfaces to allow the control needed to keep the aircraft rolling straight down the runway. As the speed increases, to approx. 30 MPH, relax the back pressure on the stick allowing the tail to come up so you have enough rudder authority to eliminate the possibility of a ground loop on take off. At that point the aircraft will fly off the runway by itself. </span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #663366;">Water take offs are performed in a slightly different way. As sufficient throttle and right rudder is applied, instead of applying full aft stick, it needs to be slightly aft of neutral. As the aircraft accelerates, push the stick slightly forward to get it on the step. Then neutralize the stick with slight back pressure, to keep the nose slightly up and let the aircraft accelerate until it fly's itself off the water. With 20 degrees of flaps ( depending on the load) the aircraft will fly with a 400 to 500 foot waterrun.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #663366;">Please note: These are my techinques that I use in landing and taking off a Searey. I hope this advice is helpful. The best advice I can give to the new Searey builder is to contact the factory and schedule training with Kerry or Paige.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #663366;"><strong>You can also call me and I can get you in contact with a CFI/ Searey owner to get you qualified training</strong>.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #003300; font-size: 180%;">TID BIT #6</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #003300; font-size: 130%;">I'll never forget what a very experienced Aircraft Inspector, who ran a lake service center, once told me. He said"if a seaplane is operated from salt water, it's not a matter of IF it will corrode, it's WHEN it will corrode. It's just a matter of time.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #003300; font-size: 130%;">I was reminded again of what he said about a year later when I found major corrosion on the horizontal stabilizer on an early Searey during a condition inspection I was doing on it. The aircraft needed a total rebuild of all of the tail surfaces. The owner had flown 450 hours the previous year and had operated exclusively from salt or brackish water. The owner of this aircraft and I became instant believers in the destructive force of salt water on aircraft structures.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #003300; font-size: 130%;">The Searey, along with any other aircraft that is operated off of salt water or brackish water...even on an occasional basis, is susceptible to eventual structural failure due to damage from corrosion.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #003300; font-size: 130%;">There are certain things that can be done to prolong the inevitable....such as washing the aircraft out after each flight where the aircraft has been exposed to salt or brackish water. That will help, but most aircraft have areas on them where it is impossible to clean with fresh water. Sooner or later those areas will incur structural damage from corrosion.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #003300; font-size: 130%;">My advice to anyone who has a seaplane, buying one or thinking of building one is to stay away from salt or brackish water if at all possible. There's a lot of fresh water lakes to land on and experience the freedom and enjoyment of seaplane flying.</span> <br />
<div>
<em>Scroll down to see a photo of the aluminum from a plane that was submerged in salt water.</em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiSA6X9WHX85G-8pXyCZ7RVj1lQWJX5EfV9fn7PSRZPmzLn5zFaLqHs_N7LZvmNRbmrXx_oHJQacqJFyIhgEdfmd6iy6nMLpIUkPHPxe-cCt3J2w_jA6ycEXTrsn8eBnpOz8iIAwQC3AQ/s1600-h/100_0835.JPG"></a><em><br />
</em></div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">TID BIT #7</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">If you refer to my tid bit # 2 ,I talked about the problems with the sprague clutch on the 912 S due to high compression. My recommendation at the time was to use a high amperage battery and sufficient size ( at least 4 AWG) cable to supply power to the starter. This still holds true. This is a big help, but not the total fix. However,there is possibly hope on the horizon....so to speak...</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">There's a new after market product available called the " soft start module" by Conair. This is a module that simply plugs into one of the two ignition boxes on your 912S. It's designed to electronically hold the ignition timing to 4 degrees BTDC for 2 seconds after it reaches 600 RP, then switch to the normal 28 degrees BTDC for anything above that RPM. It's kind of like putting an electronic " impulse coupling" on one magneto. This reduces kick back of the engine due to the timing being advanced too far , therefore reducing potential damage to the sprague clutch. </span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">One thing I really like about this product is the simplicity of installation. The other thing is that if, for some unknown reason, the module were to fail, then you can still fly home on one magneto, losing maybe 200 RPM's.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">If you decide to purchase the soft start module, you may have to make a minor modification to your ignition circuit. You have to be able to start the aircraft one mag for this system to work. If you have a mag switch, that has the start mode on the switch, you will probably have to change the switch to one that has a separate starter button, so you can select the start mag of your choice.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">I'm excited about this product. I think it could possibly eliminate alot of expensive sprague clutch repairs. In my opinion, it is well worth the monetary investment!!!!</span></strong> <br />
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #6600cc; font-size: 130%;">TID BIT # 8 ! </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: #6600cc;">912 /914 gearbox maintenance..... the 912/ 914 series Rotax engines are equipped with reduction gear boxes which performs 2 functions. The 1st is because of the light weight design of the engine, it is required to use RPM's to develop the horse power it needs for the power to weight ratio. Since the propeller needs to turn a maximum of 2800 RPM's to achieve effiency, a reduction gear box is required. Rotax has designed a gear box that is reliable and light weight but because of the design it is susceptible to routine maintenance. The gear box consists internally of a drive gear which is a press fit on the crank shaft, connected to a larger gear on the prop shaft. This gives the proper gear reduction to reduce the prop RPM's and tork needed to give the thrust efficiency needed to give the aircraft performance needed to fly. There are inherent problems with this design. The prop turns the opposite direction of the rotation of the engine. It has significant mass when it is rotating. It can cause wear on the gearbox if not shimmed properly. A quick way to tell if the gear box needs to be shimmed, is to listen to the engine on initial start up. It will tend to ( chatter) and in worst case scenarios, will not accept throttle inputs and will not come out of an idle. The problem only gets worse with time , and causes more wear on internal parts in the gearbox. This can get to be a very expensive repair. When these symptoms start showing up , I would advise bringing your aircraft to me for repair, it will save you alot of money down the road. Better safe than sorry!!!!!!!</span> </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: red;">TID BIT #9............FINALLY!</span></span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: red;">I've run across three Seareys with 914 turbo engines recently that have had starting problems. The engine will not start with the fuel pumps turned on. The only way to start it is to turn one fuel pump on for a few seconds, turn it off and then go thru the normal starting procedure, with both fuel pumps off. As soon as the engine starts, then the fuel pumps can be turned on and then the engine runs fine. After diagnosing the problem and determining that the engine is " flooding out", I determined that the root of the problem either had to be a fuel regulator or carburetor problem. After several tests, I determined that the "viton tip" on the carburetor needles was allowing the fuel to bypass when the float bowls were full and allowing the engine to flood out. A simple carb rebuild with new needles solved the problem.</span></span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">It puzzles me to why this problem has suddenly evolved recently when I have never seen it happen before. One suspect might be the fact that since the oil companies have started using up to 10% alcohol in the mogas, that we typically use in our aircraft deteriorates the viton tip on the needles and the carburetors and allows the fuel to bypass and flood the engine.</span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="color: red; font-size: 130%;">This is the only related thing I can think of that may be causing the problem. I think the 914 is more susceptible to this problem because of the higher pressure that the fuel pumps produce allowing the fuel to push past a needle that has a marginal seating capacity.</span><br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;"><strong>TIB BIT #10!!!!</strong></span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">The F.A.A requires a "condition inspection" on all experimental aircraft, once a calendar year. This inspection MUST be performed by either a licensed airframe and powerplant mechanic, a mechanic with an inspection authorization certificate or by the builder of the aircraft with a repairman certificate. This allows this person who built the plane to perform a condition inspection on the particular aircraft built by that individual.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">The inspection criteria on an experimental aircraft is performed using guidelines set forth by appendix D of FAR 43 in the F.A.A regulations. All A& P's are required by the F.A.A this section of the F.A.R.'s.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">When I perform a condition inspection on an experimental aircraft, it includes a through inspection of the airframe and engine, but it also includes keeping up the certifications of things such as transponders, ELT's, compass and deviation card.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">I have attached a list of "paperwork" and non-mechanical requirements that the F.A.A. requires be complied with to complete a condition inspection.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">These are items that I require to be with the airplane when you bring it to me before I can start a condition inspection. Some of the items on this list may not be required if the airplane is not flown in IFR conditions.</span></strong><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">I am a firm believer in the idea that obviously the aircraft has to be mechanically sound but we all know that the proper paperwork and placards are a very important part of a proper condition inspection. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #330099; font-size: 130%;">Tid Bit # 11 Finally!!!!</span></strong><br />
</div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #330099; font-size: 130%;">I have received several phone calls over the past few months inquiring about whether the Searey is legal to operate in the sport pilot category.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #330099; font-size: 130%;">I've attached the link for <a href="http://www.sportpilot.org/">http://www.sportpilot.org/</a> which explains what are likely candidates for light sport aircraft and also defines what is considered a light sport aircraft. Here are a few pages quoted from sportpilot:</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #330099; font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
<strong>"<span style="font-size: 130%;">What is a Light-Sport Aircraft?<br />
The FAA has defined light-sport aircraft as simple-to-operate, easy-to-fly aircraft that, since initial certification, has continued to meet the following performance definition:<br />
In addition to fixed-wing airplanes, the definition of a light-sport aircraft also includes powered parachutes, weight-shift control aircraft (i.e., Trikes), balloons, airships, gliders and gyroplanes. For more information on the definition of a light-sport aircraft, click </span><a href="http://www.sportpilot.org/learn/final_rule_synopsis.html" target="_top"><span style="font-size: 130%;">here</span></a><span style="font-size: 130%;">.<br />
Any aircraft that meets the definition of a light-sport aircraft as called out in FAR Part 1.1 is eligible to be operated by a sport pilot. These aircraft can be certificated in any category, such as standard, experimental amateur-built, experimental exhibition, experimental light-sport aircraft (E-LSA), or special light-sport aircraft (S-LSA)."</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">"Sport pilots may fly aircraft certificated in many of the experimental aircraft categories, including experimental light-sport aircraft, </span><a href="http://www.sportpilot.org/learn/elsa.html" target="_top"><span style="font-size: 130%;">experimental amateur-built</span></a><span style="font-size: 130%;">, and experimental exhibition.Experimental light-sport aircraft Experimental light-sport aircraft (E-LSA) may be flown by sport pilots. E-LSA kits that do not conform to amateur-built certification requirements and will be certificated in the E-LSA category must be based on an aircraft that has received a special LSA (S-LSA) airworthiness certificate. E-LSA must be operated in accordance with the operating limitations issued to the aircraft at the time it receives its airworthiness certification. It must be maintained in accordance with regulations as they apply to E-LSA. Its annual condition inspection may be conducted by an LSA repairman with an inspection rating, an LSA repairman with a maintenance rating, an airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanic, or a certified repair station.Experimental amateur-built aircraft that meet the definition of an LSA may be flown by sport pilots. The aircraft is certificated as experimental amateur-built and must be operated in accordance with the operating limitations issued to the aircraft at the time it receives its airworthiness certification. It must be maintained and inspected in accordance with regulations as they pertain to amateur-built aircraft. Its annual condition inspection may be performed by the original primary builder if he/she holds the repairman certificate for the aircraft, an A&P mechanic, or a certified repair station.This lists also includes many ultralights, including weight-shift controlled aircraft (trikes) and powered parachutes, that are eligible to transition to experimental light-sport aircraft status. That transition must be completed no later than January 31, 2008.<br />
NOTE: The following list includes aircraft for which plans or a kit are currently available. Many older designs also qualify as LSA and may be available as in process projects or finished and flying."</span> </strong></div>
<div>
<strong>Please log onto <a href="http://www.sportpilot.og/">http://www.sportpilot.og/</a> for more vital and interesting information.</strong></div>
<div>
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #000066; font-size: 130%;">As you can see from the information above, the Searey meets all of the criteria the F.A.A requires to be classified as an ELSA. It is also on the approved list to be able to be flown under the sport pilot rules.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #000066; font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: #993300;">TID BIT # 12......................</span> Yah Hoo!! Been waiting awhile?????? Sorry, I've been SO busy with airplane stuff! </span></strong></div>
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: #00cccc;">I've been asked recently by numerous potential Searey buyers if the Searey can be up-graded to the new LSX.The answer is ABSOLUTELY YES! The biggest improvements on the LSX are the wing and tail which increases the gross weight and improves the flight characteristics. The rest of the improvements are internal in the fuselage and are more "creature comfort" improvements and can also be upgraded.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: #00cccc;">So, if I can find you an older Searey that needs recover or work, then this might be a perfect opportunity for you to have me upgrade it for you!!! Parts for the LSX should be available within 6 months. Call and we'll discuss it!</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #00cccc; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #00cccc; font-size: 130%;"></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: 180%;"><strong>TID BIT #13</strong></span></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #660000; font-size: 180%;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">The 914 engine is equipped with a turbo charger which increases the horsepower from 80 to 115 at full power for takeoff. It is recommended from the factory that full power is used for a maximum of 5 minutes to be able to increase the longevity of the engine and make it to the recommended 1200 hr TBO.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Any engine with the turbo charger has the potential of being "over boosted". This means that you are pumping too much air into the cylinder and pressurizing it to the point where it will cause damage to the engine.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">The 914 has a really nice feature which is supposed to eliminate this problem. It is a computer controlled device called a TCU or Turbo Control Unit. It uses a series of sensors that it monitors on different parts of the engine and controls the "wastegate on the turbo". Whenever the boost is about ready to exceed 39.5 inches of manifold pressure it automatically opens the wastegate and dumps the excess pressure to maintain a maximum of 395 inches of manifold pressure.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">There are some mechanical factors that will prohibit the TCU from doing it's job. Carbon buildup around the wastegate and wastegate shaft can cause it to stick closed. This can cause an overboost condition and damage the engine. Alot of pilots tend to not monitor the manifold pressure guage when the engine is at full power because they are relying too much on the TCU to control the boost of the engine. In reality, the pilot must be very aware of what the manifold pressure gauge is telling him/her at all times.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">MONITOR the manifold pressure and you'll make it very easily to the recommended1200 hr. TBO and probably more.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Regular <strike>maintenance</strike> on the engine will also ensure these mechanical problems do not arise. </span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #660000;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="color: #006600;">TID BIT #14</span></span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">I'd like to talk about " hydraulic locks " in the 912/914 series engines.. Because of the design of the Searey, it is more susceptible to having a hydraulic lock if you don't fly more than once a week or so. Being a tail dragger and the fact that the oil tank is upstream or higher than the engine, the oil seeps down into the crankcase and past the piston rings.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">When you try to start the engine after not flying it for a week or so , the oil in the cylinder( which will not compress) will form a hydraulic lock. It will start to turn when you engage the starter but will stop turning over when it comes up on the compression stroke. This can bend pushrods and cause all kinds of problems.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;">For unknown reasons the 912S is notorious for this problem. With this engine sometimes it is necessary to remove the bottom plugs and "motor" the engine thru to blow the oil out of the cylinders. For the most part, all that is necessary is to remove the cap from the oil tank and pull the prop thru by hand approximately 20 blades until you hear a "gurgling" noise coming out of the oil tank. Keep pulling the prop through until you've heard the gurgling noise at least 4 times. That will give you the indication that the oil in the crank case and cylinders has been pumped back into the oil tank and the engine is ready to be started without damage to it.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;">Tid Bit #15</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;">I'd like to talk about the importance of pre flight and post flight inspections on the Searey. As pilots, we know that pre and post flight inspections are very important. The Searey s unique though because it relies on the landing gear to land on terra firm but also relies on the hull for landing on water. It is very important to not only check all of the other areas that a pilot would normally check on any other aircraft, but to pay special attention to the hull and landing gear.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;">The Searey has probably the strongest, simplest and most straight forward landing gear systems of any experimental amphibian on the market today. I've seen Searey's taxi up some really rough beaches and not hurt the gear. I've also seen them survive some really hard landings and land coming away unscathed. That doesn't mean however, that the aircraft cannot be damaged. </span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;">If you make a hard landing, or taxi up a really rough ramp or beach, a through inspection of the main bulkhead is needed. The main bulkhead is the heart of the landing gear and main wing strut attach point. If you make a hard landing then a very through post flight inspection of this area is required.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;">Look at the downtubes of the main bulkhead very carefully and check for bending or cracks, especially at all the attach points. The aircraft has four downtubes. Two on each side and support the pivot points for the left and right main landing gear. They also tie into the cross tube, where the lower wing strut attach point is located. If these down tubes are damaged severally enough, then it could affect the structural integrity of the strut attach point. Normally, if the damage is severe enough to cause this condition, it results in a gear collapse which would be a definite reminder to check this area and perform the necessary repairs.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;">My concern would be if several hard landings were made and the damage were to be progressive.</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;">So my advice to all new and even long time Searey owners, is to preform a very good pre-flight and post flight inspection. It is also a "must" that a through post flight inspection be done after a hard landing or taxiing up extremely rough beaches or ramps.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">TID BIT # 16</span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">What is considered a "major change" on an experimental aircraft?</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">I just finished doing an extensive upgrade on my Searey 77OK that included an upgraded hull, upgraded engine, new prop and several LSX upgrades that brought it up to the specs of a new Searey classic.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">You may think that since it is now the same configuration as one of the latest versions of the "classic" that is tried and proven, that it would be a simple log book entry and then go about your merry way and fly...It is not that simple!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">If you have the old version of the operating limitations ( that by the way need to be in your plane at all times with the rest of the required paperwork) then under FAA guide lines you have to notify them in writing, wait for a response and they will instruct you on how to handle re-inspecting the aircraft.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">On the other hand if you have the "new" version of the operating limitations then it is just a matter of notifing them of the changes you made. As long as you have followed their guidelines then you can put yourself back into "Phase 1" for 5 hours. After the flight test, then all it takes is a log book entry and you can carry passengers again.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">So...what does constitute a major change? The FAA is a little vague about it but basically if it changes the weight, CG or performance of the aircraft, it is considered a major change.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="font-size: large;">When I changed the things that I did to my aircraft, I documented everything and weighed the aircraft. Since I had the old operating limitations, I had the aircraft re-inspected by a DAR and I was put back in Phase 1 for 5 hours.</span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Now that all that is done, I'm back to enjoying my new improved Searey!</span></strong><br />
</div>
<div>
<strong><span style="color: #cc33cc; font-size: 130%;"></span></strong><br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;"><strong></strong></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #006600; font-size: 130%;"><strong></strong></span><br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #330033;">We're all passionate Seaplane lovers and a part of one wonderful family of experimental airplane lovers! It's a great family to belong to!!</span> Buy a Searey and join the family!!</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 180%;">The Following is "Stuff" in my Hanger for sale....................as, my wife says, "there's always too much stuff, let's sell it"!</span></div>
<span style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 180%;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 180%;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 180%;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 180%;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #663366;"><strong><span style="color: #3333ff; font-size: 180%;">SEAREY CURRENTLY FOR SALE</span>:</strong> </span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #663366;"></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #663366;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;">SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOS OF AIRPLANES FOR SALE IN MY HANGER. I CURRENTLY HAVE SEVERAL PLANES AVAILABLE IN MY HANGER WITH MORE COMING IN WEEKLY LATELY!</span></span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;">ALL THE AIRPLANES WITH PHOTO'S BELOW ARE FOR SALE! <span style="color: #20124d;">( Go to the top of this blog and hit the Searey's for Sale page for Specs)</span></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;"></span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;">(<span style="color: #33cc00;"> <span style="font-size: 100%;">NOT THE MAULE THOUGH, I JUST THINK IT IS AN AWESOME PLANE AND HAD TO SHARE THE PHOTO!, MY FRIEND CAME BY TO PICK ME UP IN IT ONE DAY AND MY WIFE JUST HAD TO TAKE A PICTURE</span>!)</span></span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;">CALL ME FOR DETAILS ON THE ONE'S FOR SALE! Whatever your budget is...we'll have it or find it for you!</span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;">Call me for more info on the planes I have for sale! <span style="color: #351c75;">See the page on the top of this blog for Specs.</span></span></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #990000; font-size: 180%;">See photo's below: </span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #663333;"><span style="color: #000099;">I also have floats available and a gas tank taken from a Searey</span> . VERY Reasonable price! Call for details.</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-59208642007322226522013-04-16T22:29:00.003-04:002013-07-11T19:14:13.648-04:00<br />
<strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Splash in this year was very enjoyable while Essie and I were there this year. The day concluded with 2 very unfortunate incidents. We wish our good friends involved a speedy <br />
recovery and many more safe days of flying!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70yAABySqPiym4Fu8J1y9fCr5ICRb4V2YBLJ_76-icZySNVM2j2UUMJiGkqGg8lvnV5nh3VGxxyT8lmI44aGqEX_Cb7tu_ww8vocF0K3iwASs2wnD9c-1ZX71lGHcUkerUbOVXiT21sw/s1600/splash+in+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70yAABySqPiym4Fu8J1y9fCr5ICRb4V2YBLJ_76-icZySNVM2j2UUMJiGkqGg8lvnV5nh3VGxxyT8lmI44aGqEX_Cb7tu_ww8vocF0K3iwASs2wnD9c-1ZX71lGHcUkerUbOVXiT21sw/s320/splash+in+2013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiN3UuCp5GzqlmKLHtFEIJRVfQYup4r0ZlkJ3_DIzBEw_qbb8oRIZL8D4G6vSxD3Wgriz4kE5kF0wV6gC4rjfxFWrhPBvhU8oBZvUVoiSecu_7z9F4eY8BdcjVo3ajWG7rHNvj2v7BR10/s1600/splash+in+2013-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiN3UuCp5GzqlmKLHtFEIJRVfQYup4r0ZlkJ3_DIzBEw_qbb8oRIZL8D4G6vSxD3Wgriz4kE5kF0wV6gC4rjfxFWrhPBvhU8oBZvUVoiSecu_7z9F4eY8BdcjVo3ajWG7rHNvj2v7BR10/s320/splash+in+2013-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</span><br /></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFNPWCPwcMvA0ELnYSHaqQ66MHQnSZYE81UfZEvsEl_P9ui6ulpO9mJtDudo4Wyaq5k7-aZzcL0iwrTJ_4bs3SCV04ENYiJUA38nv0gTeWOiMlp_lFagBf17LYmRIGyTZyJqD17o3hvM/s1600/splash+in+2013-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFNPWCPwcMvA0ELnYSHaqQ66MHQnSZYE81UfZEvsEl_P9ui6ulpO9mJtDudo4Wyaq5k7-aZzcL0iwrTJ_4bs3SCV04ENYiJUA38nv0gTeWOiMlp_lFagBf17LYmRIGyTZyJqD17o3hvM/s320/splash+in+2013-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></strong></div>
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">We enjoyed Sun n Fun this year, visited with many fellow pilots while there and as usual, had a wonderful time. I hope to see many more fellow new Searey owners next year there also!</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-20796392299398999892013-02-09T21:19:00.000-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.618-04:00<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She's Flying! Searey #2 has been reborn and is now flying again! What a long time coming!I couldn't have ever done it without my partners Dale and Robert!</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Verdana;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_V5YiNZ-FKvahd1YdbxtfcigLyeMm5pjolD0fnowr9VA7f2nOmuBbvgadFVCVvcafTbF_Jhf_5uL8S4E8jKWLwXcF42GSV0WmclaK7hkPz0Nzu6GIAjg2BU8lwfkt8lhcP-v9xoL98A/s1600/searey+done3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_V5YiNZ-FKvahd1YdbxtfcigLyeMm5pjolD0fnowr9VA7f2nOmuBbvgadFVCVvcafTbF_Jhf_5uL8S4E8jKWLwXcF42GSV0WmclaK7hkPz0Nzu6GIAjg2BU8lwfkt8lhcP-v9xoL98A/s320/searey+done3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuuZstNWfEQFr_XFCftW6ahFdNj23Q3NWfZm4jNs8Lw-3-gJhUxZ6qwX8ydkR_sjQ9MM2Dyr7eH4dRRonjkXm38azWO8z2NHUOOEvoLBeRjXcMXltstvIy9tgSpOEAzMA-_e0C8ec9b8/s1600/searey+done!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuuZstNWfEQFr_XFCftW6ahFdNj23Q3NWfZm4jNs8Lw-3-gJhUxZ6qwX8ydkR_sjQ9MM2Dyr7eH4dRRonjkXm38azWO8z2NHUOOEvoLBeRjXcMXltstvIy9tgSpOEAzMA-_e0C8ec9b8/s320/searey+done!.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95x3hHGgCsHSpwH6yTRtvW7Mp9istPx6_7FpIjrWUZR9kJImCYlMTH2EWv-wWtBsrWBhEyesq5iyxHFkQT8Bd3StXKhJL-2QhL6VNWkIrGr8ZUq5Ogm8z5RTF7kYEW-6sUb5S6Ft86SA/s1600/2+2+2013-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95x3hHGgCsHSpwH6yTRtvW7Mp9istPx6_7FpIjrWUZR9kJImCYlMTH2EWv-wWtBsrWBhEyesq5iyxHFkQT8Bd3StXKhJL-2QhL6VNWkIrGr8ZUq5Ogm8z5RTF7kYEW-6sUb5S6Ft86SA/s320/2+2+2013-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Verdana;">I'll post her adventures as we fly her more!</span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-30288679032224048292012-06-24T17:31:00.000-04:002015-09-13T10:01:29.867-04:00Ollie's "Tidbits"<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you are new to my blog, you will see as you keep reading it that I have a section called Ollie's "Tidbits". I have compiled my experiences with the details and mechanics of the wonderful airplane called the Searey.</span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is my Tidbit # 16.... scroll down for Tidbit's 1 thru 15.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Now, I know the subject that I'm about to address in this Tidbit is something that most pilots would rather not worry about but it is a necessary evil to make your airplane totally legal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I'm referring to all the paperwork required by the F.A.A. that has to be carried in the aircraft . These documents are part of the aircraft records.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Before an experimental aircraft can be approved for it's first test flight it must be inspected by the F.A.A. or a D.A.R. You must already have you Registration number, weight and balance complete and a certificate of registration. It gets inspected and if everything goes right, then the DAR or FAA representative will issue you your operating limitations and special airworthiness certificate</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"> The operating limitations will give you instructions on the requirements for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of operation. Phase 1 is considered the test flight period. Its usually a period of 40 hours of solo flight within a 25 nautical mile radius of the airport designated by the inspector. Once the test flight is completed,then a log book entry must be made by the test pilot in the maintenance log. The operating limitations will tell you word for word the verbiage that has to be put in the log books. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Once Phase 1 and the log book entry is completed then you automatically enter into Phase 2. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">At this point, you are no longer limited to the 25 mile radius and you are allowed to carry passengers. THIS IS WHEN THE FUN FLYING BEGINS!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Once you enter into Phase 2, you are required to have the special air worthiness certificate, certificate of registration, weight & balance and operating limitations in the aircraft AT ALL TIMES.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">You are also required to inform the passengers that they are in an experimental aircraft. When you fly into controlled airspace, you must identify your aircraft to ATC as an experimental aircraft. The only other requirement, is that you must have a condition inspection performed once every 12 calendar months by a licensed A&P mechanic, or if approved by the FAA, the builder of the aircraft may inspect his own aircraft as long as he/she owns it.</span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-51189506953775313782012-04-23T21:25:00.002-04:002013-07-11T19:14:13.639-04:00splash In 2012<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>The week of May 25th this year was a time for me to enjoy myself and take advantage of the beautiful Florida weather by attending not one, but TWO Splash IN's!</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>The first one was the annual splash in at Garner's Landing in Auburndale, Florida. Russ Garner and his wife Lou Ann were their usual selves, wonderful hosts to 20 or more Searey's ( I lost count) and alot of other Searey owners that were here for SunNFun but did not fly their airplanes from out of state.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong> It was a nice smooth flight there with the winds out of the west at 10 knots on the surface.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>After a day of serious fun, talking Searey's, hangar flying, flight demonstrations by Kerry in the new LSX ( awesome airplane), it was time to drag myself out of there and fly home!</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>The winds had become worse by that time, gusting to 30 knots out of the west. This proved to be a real problem taxing out of the water for all of my freinds before me for taking off. The flight back was bumpy but uneventful ( thank goodness) which proved to me the versatility of the Searey in conditions that most people wouldn't expect the airplane could handle.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>The 2nd event was the EAA Splash In at Lake Agnes, hosted by Kermit Weeks at the Fantasy of Flight. There were a lot of different types of Seaplanes in attendance. It was fun to watch the competition. The take off contest was not really a competition, with the Air Cam winning hands down. It's a great testimonial to the Searey when you see the number of them that show up at these Splash In's! What a great community to be a part of!</strong></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bFp8AdVPXAnbsBxTmbj7JSMeZk1FrS0mLrl8M7uB3VgJkb92LgehLstak7mq-8TAGH1bDWZ2E9dNzzKs3tf3yVFaf1U6jhAEXpx0cYdCka8Q9bKg7LtK1mmr2i77_ByGkfm3D_KnWKk/s1600/GarnersGathering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_bFp8AdVPXAnbsBxTmbj7JSMeZk1FrS0mLrl8M7uB3VgJkb92LgehLstak7mq-8TAGH1bDWZ2E9dNzzKs3tf3yVFaf1U6jhAEXpx0cYdCka8Q9bKg7LtK1mmr2i77_ByGkfm3D_KnWKk/s320/GarnersGathering.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong> </strong></span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-64232017376652780992012-04-14T19:57:00.002-04:002016-01-13T20:05:28.342-05:00<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Congratulations to Brad Williams , Russ Hoffman and Derek Morrell. They are the proud new owners of Searey's recently purchased!They have entered into a whole new world of flying fun! </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Are you looking for a quality pre-owned Searey? Then contact me, I only sell good Searey's and include a 12 page Condition Inspection. I am partnered with Progressive Aerodyne and we make sure all follow up post sale issues, including maintainance, F.A.A. documentation and relocation is arranged. My customers can call me at any time and I always give them my time and best advice. </span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-51975115759329300732012-04-11T22:42:00.002-04:002013-07-11T19:14:13.641-04:00Rebuild of a TRUE CLASSIC!<strong><span style="font-size: large;">OUR SEAREY # 2......SECOND one ever built...is on her way! It's now taped, primed and ready for the paint....This is truly a moment in time to remember, since this plane is not only our" baby" but....... to be born again is exhilerating! Thank you for following us on the "rebirth" since she"s going to be the one of the only true classic's out there that was one of the few "first's" around. Keep following and see her first flight on our blog! We are so proud of her and we will continue to take care of all the Searey's that have followed behind her! If it's just repairing them, maintaining them or selling them...we continue to care for them all!</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-57441366388178214722012-02-22T20:20:00.001-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.645-04:00WANTED! Searey Owners!<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">We are currently looking for Searey owner's who would like to sell their Searey's.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">I have sold 2 in the last 2 weeks and I have a lot of buyer's calling me looking for Searey's. It has now once again become a popular plane, and rightfully so! </span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">I need good quality Searey's for fast sales with the right potential owners.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">If you are willing or considering selling your Searey, please contact me. The demand is there!!</span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-57033842612730209592011-12-11T21:46:00.000-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.643-04:00My Searey during it's re-birth!Here are some more photo's of Searey #2 in it's process of "re-birth"! It will not be long now! this has been a long time coming.....Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-39438237610413410902011-12-10T21:32:00.001-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.631-04:00Welcome to the Kennedy Aircraft Service Site!<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I truly hope you enjoy reading my blog and I especially hope you get alot of insight into this awesome plane called the Searey! </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">For older additional posts, please be sure to click on "older posts" at the end of the current information. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Please enjoy....and remember...you can always call me...I LOVE to talk Searey's! 352-255-1400</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-13462014454581446022011-11-20T21:29:00.001-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.612-04:00<strong><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">I must apologize for the time lapse of not putting anything on my blog. It has been a very busy year.. Between performing maintenance on customers aircraft and the constant phone calls from prospective buyers of Searey's, the time just seems to fly by!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">My airplane is progressing well, thanks to Dale and Robert! They have been a GOD send on this project and in my life. My plane is getting close to it's 2nd maiden flight ( 1st was in 1993) and I am getting excited about the test flight!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">These projects always take more time and money than you would ever expect to budget for..</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">I would like to put a little plug in for the nice folks at Stewart Aircraft. I've become a real big fan of their covering process. It's about as eco-friendly as you can get. We never had to worry about those nasty fumes or having to wear a respirator. The product goes on real smooth and it's real easy to work with. I would definitely use it again and would highly recommend it.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"> I'm hoping to be flying Searey #2 within the next couple of months and I'll definitely keep you all posted!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">Be safe and Happy Flying!</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-44941687153461278612011-07-16T20:08:00.003-04:002013-07-11T19:14:13.637-04:00Searey #2 is getting there! She is coming to life again, with the extensive help of my partner's Robert and Dale!!<strong>Searey # 2 is coming back to life! See the photo's to the right. Dale and Robert are diligently working day after day to bring her back to the skies! Photo's are showing applying the inspection rings....and Robert who is our official photographer. Robert also get's to do the ironing! Lucky Robert....maybe his wife should take him up on that.....</strong><br />
<strong>These men are devoted to the re-birth of # 2!</strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-25447720623677122582011-05-18T22:02:00.003-04:002013-07-11T19:14:13.620-04:00Mexico loves Searey's also!<strong><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">I was recently contacted by a client to visit him in Mexico and to inspect his Searey that he has diligently worked on for about a year. I just returned home after 6 days and I must say, I have made several new friendships while I was there. If you look up Lake Chipola in Mexico, the 1st thing you see is a picture of the lake with a seaplane on it! It is absolutely beautiful! As I said, I made alot of good friends there and some very knowledgeable mechanics. After days of working(and being very well taken care of) I came home with the knowledge that the Searey is loved WORLD wide! Everyone loves it beyound America! It was a great adventure with alot of work coupled with alot of fun. I want to thank them for their hospitality and my newfound friendships. I took alot of photo's and a few of them are posted here for your enjoyment!</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-41485006591846329962011-03-31T23:30:00.001-04:002013-07-11T19:14:13.633-04:00Sun N Fun<strong>I would like to post that our hearts are with everyone that was at Sun N Fun today and had to experience the devastation of the effects of the weather. We have tried to contact several friends to make sure eveyone was okay. The planes that were damaged is tragic and the people who experienced the tornado first hand are in our prayers. We cannot express enough sympathy and compassion for everyone involved.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Essie Kennedy</strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-76239363982080554602011-03-11T21:40:00.001-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.656-04:00SUN N FUN.... JOIN US THIS YEAR!<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">If you haven't been to SUN N FUN yet..............you have to get there this year! Everyone I know puts aside all their time to fly and enjoy the wonderful flying activities and ....best of all... the airplane talk! Mark your calendars! March 29th thru April 3rd..A MUST SEE, MUST GO, MUST FLY experience!</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-34650673945156854262011-03-09T22:23:00.001-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.624-04:00SUN N FUN!<strong><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">The annual SUN N FUN is coming up fast! Everyone is gearing up for the festivities! Wash and shine your plane and fly into a week of airplane fun! If you can not make it this year, I'll be there to fill you in on the details. If you CAN make it, be sure to let me know so we can meet and talk the talk I love to talk... airplanes!</span></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">Don't miss the pre-party at Rus Garners place... it's a fly in that everyone puts on their annual schedule...</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-75718136270532223902011-01-20T22:33:00.000-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.654-04:00LSA Show Sebring Fly In<strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">We attended the LSA show in Sebring,FL today. I flew one of my planes that Im brokering to expose it at the show.It was a great flight there and Dale and I enjoyed the view! It was a nice turn out and a great day with all our fellow airplane buddies!To top it off, the weather was beautiful today for flying!</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-38681607586871995632011-01-03T22:28:00.000-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.629-04:00Happy New Year!<strong><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Happy, Healthy New Year, blessed with alot of family and flying love!</span></strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">Along with working deligently on the re-birth of Searey # 2, I have also ordered my 1st LSX kit with my business partner. We <strike>should</strike> take delivery hopefully in March...We may offer this one for sale...so stay tuned....</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-36528590677697744622011-01-01T22:31:00.000-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.627-04:00Searey "Guru"<span style="color: #33cc00; font-family: arial; font-size: 130%;">I have had many, many responses and calls from this website. I really appreciate all of your interest and enthusiasm in airplanes!! That is what this web site is all about and it's working to bring us all together!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #33cc00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 130%;">THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND INTEREST! I PROMISE TO KEEP GOING AND ANSWERING YOUR CALLS AND QUESTIONS!</span><br />
<span style="color: #33cc00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 130%;"></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">April 2009; Great News! We have a new business address</span></strong>! It is 6548 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Groveland</span> Airport Road,<br />
<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Groveland</span>, Florida . It is a 5 minute flight from our house! <strong><span style="color: #009900;">Everyone is welcome here!!! </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #009900;"><br />
</span></strong><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #6600cc;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #6600cc;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #6600cc;"><strong>UPDATE: Sun -N- Fun has taken up ALL my time this week! It is so much fun to fly in formation with other fellow pilot friends! I apologize for not writing more recently, my time is very much in demand during this week long show. I'll write another <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tid</span> Bit after the show! I'll keep you posted on how great it was and why you should plan to make it next year!</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="color: #6600cc;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="color: #006600;"><strong>Last week was my week to spend my time at the worlds 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">nd</span> largest Fly-In in the world and it is almost right in my backyard! ( well, not too far, especially if you fly there like I did).</strong></span><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600;">Sun-N-Fun is an amazing fly in to attend! It <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">actually</span> started out with a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">separate</span> annual</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #006600;">migration of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Searey's</span> to Garners Seaplane base in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Auburndale</span>, FL on April 19<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span>. It was a wonderful time for everyone! I was flying and was in a gaggle formation. We arrived at Garner's and had a great time. The weather was so nice that no one wanted to land right away though! Before the day was over, 33 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Searey's</span> had attended from as far <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">away</span> as VA. and Canada.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600;">The Sun-N-Fun event was very interesting with the debut of the newly re-designed <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">ESLX</span> on display. The aircraft has 40 hours on it with a redesigned wing and numerous other enhancements that improved performance. I hope to get the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">opportunity</span> to fly it soon! </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600;">Thursday was "Splash In" day at Fantasy of Flight in Polk City. I flew down there again in formation with my good friend, Gary Johnson . Once again, another fun day! THIS JUST DOESN'T FEEL LIKE WORK! Don't hate me, but I LOVE what I do <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">for</span> a living!!! There were more <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Searey's</span> there in attendance than any other aircraft. We picked up 6 more <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Searey's</span> on our flight back for a total of 8 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Searey's</span> flying formation. What an awesome sight!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600;">I've never had so much fun doing my job. I think of it as "it's a dirty job, but someone has to do it!".</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600;">I flew N221<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">EZ</span> all week and I love that plane! It has just been sold ( it was on my web site and I also had it on Barnstormers for sale) The proud new owner is Chuck Lewis and he is flying down from NH this weekend to get some <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">transition</span> training with my highly recommended <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Searey</span> instructor, John. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600;">I'm probably going to shed a few tears as I see N221<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">EZ</span> head north, but I'm happy to see it's going to a good home. I have 2 other <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Searey's</span> for sale, if you are interested , please call me or e-mail for more details.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #006600;">Happy flying and I'll add another <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">TID</span> BIT soon!</span></strong><br />
<span style="color: #33cc00; font-family: Arial; font-size: 130%;"></span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-17998150698331304682011-01-01T22:11:00.000-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.616-04:00Double the Experience!<strong><span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: large;">Kennedy Aircraft Service is now partnering the sales of pre-owned Searey's with the factory! Progressive Aerodyne has all the experience with our Searey's and I am proud to announce our partnership. You can not go wrong with all their knowledge combined with my experience and love for Searey's!</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-57449146249486437482011-01-01T21:40:00.000-05:002013-07-11T19:14:13.647-04:00<strong><span style="color: #4c1130; font-size: large;">The Grand Opening of the new Progressive Aerodyne location was the place to be last Saturday! The turnout was unbelieveable and it was fun for all! Progressive did a wonderful job of putting it all together very well and it was evident! There was a ribbon cutting and Searey's everywhere to celebrate. It is a great location on the lake and is easy access to fly up to and land.</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><strong>I hope you made it there and if you didn't , I made sure to take some photo's</strong> <strong>to share...</strong></span></span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-76090264692611704622011-01-01T21:03:00.000-05:002011-05-16T21:05:11.906-04:00Searey LSX<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;">Kerry Richter flew the new Searey LSX over to my facility two weeks ago and gave me the oppurtunity to get a check out in the airplane. I had been told what an awesome flyer it was and I just had to experience it myself! I MUST say.... that I was pleasantly surprised! Every report that I had heard was true!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"> The flight started with taxing into the water, with Kerry telling me to set the elevator trim and flaps, pushing the throttle forward, like you would in any other airplane. The difference this time was he told me not to touch the stick. Trusting Kerry, as I have for the past 30 years I've known him, I did exactly what he said. I pushed the throttle on the 914 forward and with arms crossed...watched the airplane accelerate, climb onto the step, lift off in 400ft and establish a very comfortable climb at 55 miles per hr.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;">I was looking around the panel for a button to disengage the autopilot and there was none!!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;">The next thing we did was Kerry told me to just pull the stick back in my lap and hold it there. the nose pitched up, dropped slightly and then started flying again. After many of these, while still amazed, I wanted to try something else. We may lost 50 feet of altittude. I did log 10 stalls though!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;">Next, I wanted to see how it handled in a simulated accelereted stall. At 2000 ft AGL it was full power, roll into a 60 degree bank and pull the stick back into my lap as far as I could. I was expecting to use my spin training at this point. As I held the stick in my lap, the sirplane would buffet, the nose would drop ever so slightly through the horizon and start flying again. I could not get it to show any signs of even an eminant spin .</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;">Now it was time to shoot some landings. Landings are very simple in the LSX. Prelanding checklist ensuring the <u><strong>landing gear is up</strong></u> for water landing, fuel pump on, 20 degree flaps and trim set. You reduce the power to idle, set up a 50 mph approach and just land.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;">I msut say that I am throughly impressed with the performance of the LSX! I hope sometime in the near future that I can order a kit and build one for myself! In the meantime, I'll continue to enjoy and splash around in my classic Searey. Nothing like a classic Searey!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #134f5c; font-size: large;"><strong>If you are interested in an LSX , Please call me. I can assist you with information about the LSX and in ordering a kit.</strong></span>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4064838084231750034.post-88952360025502706252011-01-01T20:01:00.000-05:002011-05-16T21:10:32.194-04:00The RE-BIRTH of Searey # 2!!<span style="color: #351c75;"><strong>I am now starting the process of rebuilding my Searey, the 2nd ( SECOND) one ever built, with the devoted assistance of my business partner, Dale. Searey # 2 will be awesome! I plan to take you thru the whole process while we are rebuilding it into the most awesome Searey! Stay tuned for photo's and all of our step by step work, so hopefully it will not only educate you, but you will join us all along the way in our exciting experience! We </strong><span style="font-size: large;"><u>will</u></span><strong><u> </u>all do this together!</strong></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #0c343d;">12/13/2010 The left wing is well on it's way to the point of needing to be covered. We had taken off all the fabric from both wings last week.. There will be some of my own structural enhancements that will make it equivalent to the LSX wing. I will up date as we progress.. stay tuned</span></strong>Oliver (Ollie) and Esther (Essie) Kennedyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15729143133626199129noreply@blogger.com0