Any comments on the Duke's magnesium tail control surfaces? I've read a few
horror stories, but don't know if it's typical or not. The relative low
price of the Dukes has been attributed to a higher maintenance cost per
passenger mile compared with other medium twins... anybody have first hand
knowledge and or numbers?
Jim

"Jim Macklin" wrote in message
...
The reputation of the Duke and the TSIO 541 engine was
damaged by a many retired USAF jet-jockey desk pilots being
hired by companies to get a "cheap" pilot. The Duke must be
flown carefully and the engine requires proper and gentle
care.

On a Beech 58, the IO 720 would be a more durable
replacement for the more complicated TSIO 520 for those
operations that happen below 10,000 feet.

The conversion to a turbine makes little sense, since the
same cost can get you a good used King Air and a cabin class
aircraft with full approval for ice and IFR.



"Kingfish" wrote in message
oups.com...
|
| Jim wrote:
| If you're flush with cash, there's also the Aztec Nomad
conversion... doors
| on both sides. Not sure how fun docking a low wing
would be.
|
| I've seen a photo of an Aztec on floats. I first thought
it was a
| PhotoShop job but apparently not.
|
|
| If you want the TSIO 541, get a Duke. The Duke flies
very
| well and is as tough as nails.
|
| I've read the 541 engines were quite finicky, as I'd
expect from a high
| horsepower Lyc. in a close cowled airplane. IIRC the same
engine was
| rated at 425hp in the P-Navajo? I think Dukes are
tough looking
| planes; Rocket Engineering in Spokane does PT6A
conversions for Dukes
| (beats an IO-720 IMHO) and had one in the works for a
P-Baron, but
| there's not mention of it on their site.
|