The comments about FAA not helping are very true. I am a A&P/IA and am very frustrated in dealing with stupidity in trying to obtain approvals for even the simple changes in aircraft modifications. Dan, you are fortunate that you received approval for the o-200 in your CD mdoel The local FSDO refused my request in my CD (N3989H) for the O-200 Because the STC (Skyports) was for a model D and I would not change to a D model and lose the LSA category. Their main problem is that would reqiure a "field approval" and , if they were to do that, then "they" (the FAA) could be held responsible for any future lawsuits that may come out of any action on that aircraft. In the past, the older FAA people had been A&P's before eating at the Govt trough and they had experience and common sense. The new crew seem to have niether. My current solution is to install the O-200 crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistions in my 85 IAW STC SE00979AT from Aircraft Specialties Service. The engine remains identified as a C85 but an ID plate is added for the mod . As noted by others, the change is only to the engine, not the aircraft. I recently discussed this with John Cooper and felt this was better than fighting a losing battle with the Feds. I also agree that these guys had no business looking at a coupe for the LSA category. For God's sake , this is a CERTIFICATED aircraft. Check your aircraft records, look for any STC data that notes any change in model status. As has been said, "The Devil is in the details" Enough of my Soap Box. Regards, Tom Cook A&P/IA Couper 3989H
