Message-Id: <3.0.3.32.19981127230407.02b132b0@olsusa.com>
Date: Fri, 27 Nov 1998 23:04:07 -0500
To: lancair.list@olsusa.com
From: Lynda Frantz <LFrantz@compuserve.com> (by way of Marvin Kaye <marvkaye@olsusa.com>)
Subject: Brake Lines and Canopy Exit
Mime-Version: 1.0

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To answer David Byrnes question, "I assume that
previous brake failures have been at the attachment to the brakes where
heat would be involved. I would be interested (and worried) if anyone
knows of brake-line failure at any other point?"

There was one instance of Nyloflow brake line tubing failure in the wheel
well area.  The article in the Lancair Network News and resultant SDR cited
brittleness of the Nylaflow tubing as the brake falure cause but gave no
explanation as to why the tubing turned brittle.  This aircraftr was based
in  AZ.

All of these past LNN articles and SDR's are available on CD.

I too am concerned about canopy exit procedures.  Two lives were lost some
years ago in a Lancair due to smoke inhilation possibly because the old 
four latch canopy system was not operative from outside the aircraft.  I
went with the forward hinged canopy with an exterior release handle clearly
marked.  I'm still concerned about a forced landing and roll over with no
escape route. 

I had thought  about altering the side windows to accomodate a knock out
feature but have not figured just how that would work.  During the
construction process I did determine that it would be a tight fit but
possible to slide through a side window opening.  Any Ideas?

Jim Frantz
jim@angle-of-attack.com