Thread: Hangar vs. Tie-Down

Alright, I'm considering buying an CTLS. Hangars at my airport are $325 a month. Tie-downs are $50. I searched the forum for the words hangar and tiedown and didn't find anything. So what's the story: Is there any problem tying down a CTLS outside that isn't also true for an aluminum skinned airplane?

Hi Skymachines,

Should be no problem being tied out. I would recomend getting a cockpit cover, it gets pretty toasty in the cockpit when the sun blasts thru all the windows. Also a good idea to get a strap to lock the controls for winds, there isn't a built in control lock and the stabilizer can get banged around some in winds.

Regards

Eric Swisher
Copper City Aviation Services

Hello all,
Depending on environment make sure drain holes remain unplugged especially in the ventral fin under the tail, it will deform over months with trapped water. There is no clear coat so UV will work on the paint. Wingwaxers.com have a good process to rejuevenate oxidized paint and recoat with a teflon like substance which lasts a year minimum. Check standby compass for leaks as things heat up. And I've observed other high wingers take a beating do to downdraft, or micro bursts while tied down in the traditional fashion. What happens is the tail takes a downward wind and gets slammed down, ventral fin on a CT should take the punishiment, point is, if possible tie down the nose gear if it is going to brave the elements by itself..also, work something out, if possible with the FBO, if possible, to put it in a hanger as the storm of the century approaches, and you can't get to it. And then there's the insurance company who wants to know if its hangered or outside for same reasons. Just some observations. Oh and security and other ground movement thingys that go bump in the night will stall your sleep cycle more than once. So you get what you pay for. VRDoug

If you are in an area subject to winds, don't use chains. there is no give. Use good quality nylon rope.

I know that Bruce's Custom Covers sells complete plane covers that'll protect it from UV, weather, etc. Makes the preflight and put up a little longer, but may be worth it in the long run. John

I think I would want a control lock if outside, as the wind does move the stabilator around and that is one of the weakest links (ergo the tail SB). I have tried the old piper trick of using the seat belt to hold the stick back, but I would rather hold it neutral if there was some way to do it.

WF