Search found 84 matches

by ZAV
Wed Mar 13, 2024 7:16 pm
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Questions about pitting in the camshaft
Replies: 16
Views: 620

Re: Questions about pitting in the camshaft

I second the recommendation to hire Savvy Aviation as a consultant. Years of experience and wisdom with a conservative yet safety conscious approach to maintenance. You should pay for their yearly service and they will follow the engine data and oil analysis with you. If you do need engine work, the...
by ZAV
Sun Feb 18, 2024 4:38 pm
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Alternatives for Plexus
Replies: 8
Views: 480

Re: Alternatives for Plexus

Prist windshield/acrylic cleaner works well and I prefer it over Plexus. It doesn’t seem to leave as much residue.
by ZAV
Wed May 03, 2023 10:41 pm
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Annual Costs
Replies: 11
Views: 3798

Re: Annual Costs

First annual in the NE when I bought my plane (2018) was 7k for the inspections. Each year since in KY they’ve been around 3k.
by ZAV
Sun Apr 09, 2023 12:27 pm
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Prebuy fresh out of Annual?
Replies: 22
Views: 1923

Re: Prebuy fresh out of Annual?

Use the Savvy prebuy service if you’re new to this process. They will help find a neutral A&P and ultimately be someone working for you through the process that you can trust.
by ZAV
Thu Oct 27, 2022 11:20 pm
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Advise on New DA40 XLT Configuration
Replies: 26
Views: 2530

Re: Advise on New DA40 XLT Configuration

I love the look, durability, smoothness, and performance of the Hartzell. I’ve flown them all and specifically sought out a Hartzell when purchasing my plane. I probably would prefer the 40 gallon tanks but have the 50. The 50g tank helped me plan a few longer IFR legs given the reserve needed but t...
by ZAV
Thu Oct 27, 2022 2:24 am
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: NG vs XLT in light of Austro MSB
Replies: 20
Views: 2398

Re: NG vs XLT in light of Austro MSB

I chose the Lycoming 4 years ago when I had this decision. I didn’t feel comfortable with the Austro engine. I didn’t have much experience or objective knowledge about the engine but just didn’t feel comfortable with the unknowns. The salesmen tried to keep the focus on “one-lever” FADEC operation a...
by ZAV
Fri Aug 12, 2022 8:26 pm
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Don’t get out with the prop running
Replies: 10
Views: 1527

Re: Don’t get out with the prop running

Tragic. The owner/pilot may be a member here and if so I send my condolences. A tragic accident. We’re all sometimes one decision away from an accident and tragedy.
by ZAV
Wed Jul 27, 2022 9:30 pm
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Power supply for iPad charging.
Replies: 33
Views: 5403

Re: Power supply for iPad charging.

I just keep a cheap, lightweight portable charger with me. It will recharge the iPad twice. Seems easier and safer than messing with the electric system or using the installed outlet in the air.
by ZAV
Mon May 02, 2022 1:14 am
Forum: DA40 Forum
Topic: Speed fluctuation in cruise
Replies: 8
Views: 1081

Re: Speed fluctuation in cruise

Put a SD card in the upper MFD slot and save the engine logs. There are free online resources to visualize the data. You can graph the changes you’re worried about and show us. May be able to help. Your description of the airspeed change seems large to me unless you are making big pitch changes. Als...
by ZAV
Sun Jan 02, 2022 2:55 am
Forum: DA62 Forum
Topic: New DA62 x words of wisdom from seasoned owners
Replies: 88
Views: 15522

Re: New DA62 x words of wisdom from seasoned owners

I’m not in the market for a DA62 but seems like Diamond Aircraft has enough business for their production capabilities and understands the finances around that.

Seems like they have enough people willing to pay 1.5 million for their product to keep them busy for a couple of years.