Float installation legalities and Insurance

[marathonrunner]

I have been getting some requests for information for the Aerocet 2200's. They are approved for all 170's with horsepower from 145 up to 180 at this time. One of the reasons for writing this post is to let you know that Bob at Avcon did not include float planes in his STC. The rule is that you cannot go more then 15 percent of your horsepower without getting approval. 15 percent of 145 is 21.75 so you cannot install Edo 2000 or PK 2300 floats if you are more then 166.75 horsepower.

I did get a co-ordinated field approval for my airplane only for the installation of Edo 2000 floats. It took over a year to do this and it did involve flight tests and having my vibration analyzer installed to show that the prop tip to float clearance did not induce any bad vibration characteristics.

I sent my approval and the flight manual to the club. I do not know if any other FSDO will use it as basis for approval. somehow the clubs database was infiltrated and it is now on the internet. Just google my name or that field approval. Anyone can get it not just club members as I originally intended.

The FAA either does not know or care about the fact that Edo 200's or PK 2300's installed on 170's with 180 H.P. is not approved. However your insurance company will. If you are involved in an accident or incident you may find that you are liable to anyone or anything hurt or damaged and your insurance company can walk away since you are flying with unapproved parts. I spoke with an insurance adjuster about this. He said that the NTSB would for sure find this out and that the FAA would probably act not only on the pilot but also the mechanic that signed the installation ro the annual with them installed.

I am not pushing the Aerocets but it anyone has those floats installed with that combination then you do need to get them approved. If you go to PK's website they show the 170 as 145 h.p. only and the 172 with 145-215.

Take care and fly safe

[marathonrunner]

Also the Avcon STC is for land planes only. That was the other reason they told me I had to get an STC or field approval