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AGATE DESIGNMAINTENANCE |
| EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | One of the many reasons
for the decline in the general aviation industry since the early 1970’s
is the increasingly expensive cost of maintenance. Many owners of
private aircraft find it easier to sell their aircraft than to pay the
rapidly increasing costs of annual inspections and mandated repairs.
This problem originates from many sources, including more rigid FAA Airworthiness
Directives which often impose strict demands on 20 to 30 year old planes
not designed to meet current maintenance requirements. Careful attention
to the maintenance needs of this aircraft prepare the VenTure for
the future.
Greater maintenance demands are placed upon any amphibious aircraft by its operating environment. Maintenance could rapidly become more expensive for a poorly designed amphibian than for comparable land based aircraft. The composite construction of the VenTure reduces the maintenance requirements of the aircraft, particularly for the lower hull and carbon fiber wings and control surfaces, eliminating leaks, minimizing impact damage, and preventing water related corrosion. The VenTure's engine placement, dictated by water spray avoidance, is a source of engine access concerns which have been addressed. The engine cowling is completely removable by hand, allowing total access to the engine from any angle. The use of a diesel engine greatly reduces the need for engine service by allowing much greater time between needed overhauls. The remainder of the aircraft’s components are quite traditional in nature and regular maintenance is still needed. Access and inspection ports are placed at locations around the aircraft to facilitate maintenance and meet the appropriate Federal Aviation Regulations. A detailed manual containing instructions for continued airworthiness is included with the aircraft. Appendix N contains a complete description of maintenance procedures. |