I did not like the idea of using the suction cup due to changes in altitude and temperature and a tether seemed like a good way to replace some skins or worse jamb up the flight controls if it was long enough. So I came up with this design to mount a GoPro under the wing using an inspection panel. No permeant modifications to the airframe so this is a temporary instillation it uses tools to install and remove so it becomes a Minor Alteration and requires an A&P to sign it off. In addition to the sticky base I thought 4 flush rivets would hold it on a little better and the six mounting screws in the inspection panel will be good and strong.
I am an IA and have been working with the local FSDO about what it takes to do this legally. So far I have been told on the phone that a Logbook Sign off would do and that this is a Minor Alteration, two PMI's agree on that. So I am trying to fine tune my Logbook entry, also I need to talk to my insurance broker and see that this does not effect my coverage. Here is what I have so far,
Logbook Entry # One
NXXXXX Date: xx/xx/xxxx Tach: xxxx.xx TT: xxxx.xx
Installed Temporary GoPro Camera Mounts on Inspection Panels. As defined in CFR Title 14, 1.1 and 21.93 this is a Minor Alteration. A Net Weight Change of 9 oz is incurred with the entire System consisting of The Mount and A GoPro Camera, therefore the Weight and Balance is Negligible; AC 43.13 1B, 10-2 (c). There is no change to Structural Strength of the Airframe. The GoPro Camera and Inspection Panel Mount System have no appreciable effect on the performance of the aircraft. All previous Operational Procedures for all flight conditions will remain unchanged. There is no effect on the Powerplant Operation or Reliability, both the GoPro and Powerplant systems are independent. There are no Qualities or Characteristics of the External Mount and GoPro Camera System that have affected the Airworthiness of the Aircraft.
Mechanic Name IA xxxxxxx A&P
Flight Test, if it proves good entry # Two, if not entry # Three. The flight test will determine the effect of Flight Characteristics as referenced to 23.143.
Logbook Entry # Two
NXXXXX Date: xx/xx/xxxx Tach: xxxx.xx TT: xxxx.xx
This Aircraft was flown as required by CFR 91.407 with the GoPro Mount System Installed and it has been determined by an appropriately rated pilot that the Flight Characteristics are not Appreciably Affected. The Flight Characteristics are Safely Controllable and Maneuverable as per CFR 23.143 during Takeoff, Climb, Level Flight, Decent, Go-around and Landing (power-on and power-off) with the wing flaps extended and retracted. In addition a Vne dive was accomplished to verify integrity of the Mount.
Pilot & Mechanic IA xxxxxxx A&P ASEL&S
Logbook Entry # Three
NXXXXX Date: xx/xx/xxxx Tach: xxxx.xx TT: xxxx.xx
Removed Temporary GoPro Mount System.
Mechanic IA xxxxxxx A&P
And sources for the CRFs and AC cited
CFR Title 14 http://1.usa.gov/UoVuVg
AC 43.13-1B http://1.usa.gov/nnzwoW
Are there any concerns or thoughts about this, I am planning on e-mailing the PMI this logbook entry on Tuesday and seeing his opinion. Any critique before then would be helpful. Thanks
