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Prior to my recent trip to Mexico, I noticed a lot of interest and concern
re static buildup on our aircraft and I would like to discuss my
experiences.

I first started noticing static problems when flying a Cessna T210 under
dry IFR conditions.  The problem was not too severe in that craft and I
subsequently moved to a C-340.  I had a great deal of static problem in
that aircraft and eventually installed static wicks.  This cured the
problem.  Prior to the installation of the wicks, the static would build to
the point that the noise in the headset was unbearable and the headset had
to be removed.  It would also completely blank out the Loran, although the
other Navs worked fine.  The problem is most pronounced when flying in dry,
cold clouds. (I think Saint Elmo's fire is also related to static buildup
and at one time I had both props on the 340 glowing like large green
disks.)

With the LIV I started getting static in dry cloud conditions.  I have
since installed static wicks and the problem is largely cured.  I can still
hear some static as it disburses from the wicks, but it does not build to
the point of annoyance.

It is my understanding that static buildup is a surface phenomena (like the
static that develops between your comb and your hair under certain
conditions) and has very little to do with conductivity, i.e. it builds on
Spam cans.  I also understand that each airplane is different and the
solution for one might note be perfect for another model of the same plane,

The people who solved most of my static problems were Aerotronics of
Billings, Montana Tel: 406-259-5006.  Talk to Martin Elshire or Gary
Wirrell.

Regards to all.

Dale Scholz

LML homepage:   http://www.olsusa.com/Users/Mkaye/maillist.html