Thread: Some "winter" tips from Tom Peghiny...

ah, I'm getting my AC heat pad replaced this week for one that works

I am new student pilot (35 TO/landing so far) but was interested by the thread on staying warm in winter. I own a motorcycle for which I have purchased heated vests and jackets that plug into the electrical system. Modification for plugging into the dash outlet would be easy. I don't know what the electrical capacity of the plane is but I can say an electric vest will definiely take the chill out on a cycle ride in winter. Check out websites for Gerbings and Widder.

Not much reserve power available in the plane and it has a tiny battery, smaller than a motorcycle.

I'm reminded of the guy that set out across the Nevada desert in the evening with only an electric vest. His bike died and he froze to death that night. Better to have backup gear and clothes.

Hi CTJIM,

The heated vest do well, but the electric plug on your dash will trip a breaker if you try to use the vest with this plug. The plug does not have enough amps. You would need to put in another socket and larger wire and a little bigger fuse or even one of the breakers on the dash if you have any open ones.
I have a GL1800 Honda and I see people from the colder climates wear these vest.