----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2009 6:46
AM
Subject: [FlyRotary] First X-Country
milestone
My Mazda 13B powered 2+2 finally got out of the circuit
this past weekend. It was only a 25 mile ferry flight to transfer the
airplane from one base to another but a big milestone none the less. The
airplane was moved to my instructor’s airport to facilitate training – I need
tail-wheel transitioning. We flew over 4 lane highways, 2 lane highways
and secondary roads to be as safe as possible but were restricted to 2500’ AGL
because I don’t have a Mode C transponder yet. The flight was without
incident; the engine purred along at 5500 rpm all the way except for the
“arrive-in-style” high speed pass and climb out at 6500 rpm that my
instructor/pilot (he’s Pitt’s Aerobatic Instructor-endorsed) performed – that
put a smile on my face! J.
The engine is still running cold (W-155F, O-110F); but we
both figured it best to leave well enough alone until after we return to local
operations. I have restrictor plates made up for the oil cooler inlets
and will insert them 1 at a time to increase the operating temperatures on
next flights – will keep you all posted as to how this plays out.
Jeff (happy,
happy)