Celestial days are getting shorter and darker (latitude 44N) …Only (23) days until the equinox and the fall season. More rain and clouds are forecasted. But, technically it’s still summer and a good time to complete an annual inspection before the fall and winter.

I always start with the engine. The little ship fired right up, amazing for an air cooled updraft engine! If I have been away for awhile, I like to stretch the belts per POH recommendations. This reduces loading on the starter especially.

Tomorrow will cut open the oil filter and check for particulate. Will let you know what the results are tomorrow … Aloha!

File photos from previous inspections:

SB-112:

Today:

1) Cut open and removed filter paper from engine oil filter. Was completely clean.

2) Differential compression check all cylinders 78/80

Total stoked, she’s a great little ship. Looks like we are on schedule for a pre equinox (before Fall season) departure to Los Angeles! I want to be a “Cowboy” in So Cal Baby…ha ha.


Venice Beach: Arnold Schwarzenegger started here. It’s about an hour on the bike path from Torrance. I’m looking forward to renting a “beach cruiser” !

Ready to check TR drive shaft runout:

Very nice to have a reusable and serviceable air filter. It’s a tough air filter, can handle the carburetor heat from the exhaust stack.

There was no sizable debris. We have been mostly in the desert which (except dust) has little else airborne comparatively to the forest.

B771-2 Rev D:

Rotor mast, fuel vent, Pitot tube and MRB tip inspection:

Interior exterior panels:

Looks good! Hopefully, will do a ground run up today…

Only a few discrepancies: Rodents, spiders and a dead battery. All from neglect this summer while I was away sailing.

Time for a ride to L.A….Don’t forget to watch “The Sunday Morning Cowboy Show” when an exciting new episode is released. Ye ha folks!


Catalina Island on the horizon: