Hi Folks,
As the day of our first flight draws nearer (permit to test applied for), we
have been having some thoughts about the possibility of landing gear up.
OK so it shouldnt happen but everybody knows that if it can, then it will.
We now of at least one Europa owner who lost his prop because he forgot to
lower the undercariage and we are sure there are many more who kept quiet
(lets face it its not something one admits to !).
Anyway whether it is a real risk or not we thought it might be a good idea
to build in some added insurance and wondered if anybody else has been there
before.
A recent trip to Maplins came up with a nifty door alarm which costs a mere
5.00 and activates an ear shattering scream (110db) when the magnet is
moved away from the alarm box (about the size of a packet of cigarettes). If
the idea works we may remove the reed switch out of the box to save space
(and move the box to somewhere out of the way). Incidentally the power
supply is 2 AAA batteries.
Our simple solution was to attach the magnet to the gear retraction arm (on
top of the armrest/ wheelwell next to the locking latch) with the alarm unit
resting beside it and then wire in a microswitch so that the alarm is
powered up when the throttle lever is closed (or partially closed - some
trial and error required here)
If the throttle is closed and the gear is not locked down the alarm will
sound (there is also a flasher). Sounds simple, so where's the catch.
If anyone has a better idea please let us know.
Carl Pattinson
G-LABS
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