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Darwin, I don't believe you can modify the C model to a D model (1400# GW )without covering the forward fuselage with Stainlwess steel. The certification of the C model with the Continental engine without requiring the stainless steel covering was a mistake by the Federal Aviation Administration (CAA) folks... The rules were (are) clearly written that all fuselage that is part of the engine compartment MUST be constructed of stainless steel to help prevent fuselage failure melt thru in case of an engine compartment fire. When they first certified the 415 model it had the ERCO IL-116 engine, and the cowling stopped at the firewall. When ERCO dropped the IL-116 engine and addopted the Continental engine, cowling then was required to come back over the forward fuselage, and should have , by regulation and safety requirements, required the areas under the engine cowling to be of stainless steel. The Feds evidently missed this in issueing the revised certification. On development of the D model, the Feds caught this. They also required the CD model and all further models to be stainleess steel covered. I don't remember my comments that led you to the conclusion that one could up grade and certify without covering the forward fuselage with stainless steel. I may have misled you. If so, I apologize. I encourage all ercoupe owners of 415-C models to have the stainless steel covering installed for safety reasons. If a fire occurs under the cowling, and one does not have Stainless Steel to prevent the burn thru of the aluminum sheeting, then the chances of safely arriving on the ground in one piece becomes doubtful. Weight change is insignificiant. Again, If I misled you, I must humbly apologize. I do not remember the issue with the mentioned Skyport's modification allowing the upgrade to 1400 # (D-Model) without requiring the S/S addition. My understanding is that ERCO was required to modify all 415 C coupes it had not sold to add the S/S covering, thus becoming the CD models. I am surprised that the Feds did not require a recall and installation of the S/S covering on all previous ercoupes. I hope this clears the issue, and encourages you to not even try to by pass this VERY IMPORTANT safety issue. Fly Safe - Have Fun Harry Francis Elliston, VA. ==^================================================================ This email was sent to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] EASY UNSUBSCRIBE click here: http://topica.com/u/?aVxiLm.aVzvvT Or send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] T O P I C A -- Register now to manage your mail! http://www.topica.com/partner/tag02/register ==^================================================================
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