Dougs experience sounds almost exactly like mine.  My ordeal with RDD ended
about 12/07.  Replaced the alternator on arrival home (bad batch from
Kelly).  Replaced the accessory drive pulley soon after.  On board computer
indicates the system is working but the ice I've been in in 3 years has not
all been prevented.  Anyone know how to test the pads directly?
Since parting (unsatisfactorily) with RDD I've talked to Doug Goodrich at
Goodrich Aviation about my system.  Anyone had any contact with him?  He's
Kellys east coast installer.
Tim
N524JG, LNC4P

-----Original Message-----
From: Lancair Mailing List [mailto:lml@lancaironline.net] On Behalf Of Doug
owen
Sent: Thursday, September 09, 2010 7:08 PM
To: lml@lancaironline.net
Subject: [LML] Thermawing

I have had the thermawing system installed by RDD  on my IV-P turbine a
couple
of years ago.

The computer controller failed within a few weeks and had to be replaced.
The
alternator failed within a couple of months and had to be replaced
(involving
pulling the prop). I developed an oil leak around the prop after their
installation. Pulled prop and found that NO gasket was re-installed when
they
had reinstalled the prop. The wiring connectors were not aviation grade - in

fact, they were not even OEM auto grade, but appeared to be K mart grade. I
had
to replace all of them. My marker beacon antenna failed due to the install
work
and had to be replaced.

When the system is on, I have a very annoying alternator whine constantly in
my
headsets.

The heat units on the wing have many folds and uneven areas, particularly on
the
bottom of the leading edge. I brought this up to Dave McRae (one of the 3
principals of RDD). He told me to my face "we did not charge you enough to
do a
good job!!!" It seemed to me they charged me plenty, and I paid them what
they
asked.

I would advise that, if you consider having RDD install this system, DO NOT
leave your airplane unattended during any aspect of the work. I certainly
regret
installing this system, but have not pulled it out either. I pretty much
avoid
icing situations anyway, and so far have not needed to use the system in
flight.
I hope that, if and when I do need it, it does not fail at the worst
moment! 

Doug Owen
N800DB


      

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