Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP Posting-Version: version B 2.10.1 exptools 1/6/84; site ihnp4.UUCP Path: utzoo!watmath!clyde!burl!ulysses!mhuxj!ihnp4!cfiaime From: cfiaime@ihnp4.UUCP (Jeff Williams) Newsgroups: net.aviation Subject: Re: Frost Message-ID: <664@ihnp4.UUCP> Date: Sat, 13-Oct-84 05:13:52 EDT Article-I.D.: ihnp4.664 Posted: Sat Oct 13 05:13:52 1984 Date-Received: Sun, 14-Oct-84 06:57:56 EDT Organization: AT&T Bell Labs, Naperville, IL Lines: 39 Isopropyl alcohol will work for deicing an airplane, but I would be concerned about fire hazards while using it. Several years ago a Twin Otter in the northeast U.S. had a windshield deice line break from the alcohol tank to the windshield. The resulting fire killed one person, and injured 12 more. (Reference: Professional Pilot, March(?), 1983.) For defrosting, I either use the old scraper/broom/blanket routine, or will try to warm the airplane and drain the control surfaces. One FBO I worked for used ethyl glycol antifreeze to deice airplanes, but it stained the paint, and was expensive. (The airlines use ethyl glycol, as well.) Another would spray the airplane with water, and use a squeegee to get the water off before it refroze. (Not a really good idea, especially if it is REALLY COLD!) If it is your own airplane, try making or purchasing wing covers. These little gems can make winter flying quite a bit more enjoyable. You can make them with a good rip-stop nylon (available in any fabric store), velcro, bungee cord (elastic cord), and grommets, all of which are easy to find items. The problem is getting a pattern made. The winter flying season is almost here. Each airplane type requires different preparation, but several truths remain. Don't fly with ice, snow, and frost on the airplane. Preheat the engines before flying if at all possible. (Not just the jugs, but the sump as well.) Keep the engine warm while descending by carrying some power. Make sure that the rigging for the skis are correct and secure. Use a fur lined helmet for the open cockpit airplanes. (The last two are mentioned because my brother is planning on putting his Pietenpol on skis this winter.) One neglected area is survival equipment and adaquate clothing to walk away from a downed airplane. (As a note, make your wing covers out of orange nylon. These can be used as signal panels if you do have problems.) ALWAYS file a flight plan with somebody before you go up. Winter flying is fun, but it does require a bit more planning, and a bit more time. Jeff Williams ihnp4!cfiaime