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From: N295vv@aol.com  (n295 v v @aol.com)

The cheapest and most efficient theft deterrent is a Prop Lock.  I have tried
several, and have settled on the $19.95 bicycle lock made by the same people
that make the steering wheel bar lock for cars.  It is available from lots of
stores, Wal Mart, included, I think.

It is bright red, slips nicely over the root of the prop, is case hardened,
and has a very satisfactory locking mechanism with a good key.  I was rather
amazed at how nicely it fits on the prop.  It would be impossible to remove
with tools generally available at airports.

For trips into Mexico and other drug countries, as well as the US border
areas, I use the Cobra Lock.  This lock is very heavy, wraps around the prop,
and would take a lot of ingenuity to defeat. In reality, it is probably no
more secure than the two-pound bicycle lock, but it LOOKS mean, and if you
have drug runners looking for a IV to run a thousand pounds of dope, you want
a mean-looking lock.

If you are travelling in Central American countries, try going to the security
chief at the airport and offering to pay for a couple of soldiers with guns
for 24 hour guard duty.  Twenty or forty bucks will buy you some sleep.  Be
sure to tip the guards themselves when you leave--they probably didn't see any
of the money.  Don't let the bribery bother you.  It really isn't much
different than an overnite tie down at some of our more innovative FBO's here
in the US!

David Jones