There is some specialized equipment needed. A hoist of some kind. I go on
and off floats every other year. A Cessna 185 takes three men four hours to
convert to floats.

For many installations an STC is not necessary. For instance, EDO 2960's are
certified on a Cessna 185 and do not require an STC. However, a set of
Aerocets require an STC.


Karl
"C Kingsbury" wrote in message
om...
(Robert M. Gary) wrote in message
. com...
Talking with some of the sea plane operations, it seems pretty common
to take floats on and off. However, the rigging and all for the floats
(rudders, etc) seems complicated. Is it actually that easy to put
floats on and off?

It's more complicated than changing a tire, but not unreasonable to do
at the beginning and end of the season, especially if the shop does it
often.

If I bought a Champ could I just pick up a used
pair of EDO float and put them on every once in awhile (I know
insurance is another issue..)? Most of the floats for 2 place planes
look very similar, are they generic to type?

The rule with floats is that 1 float needs to be capable of supporting
90% of the max gross weight of the plane. Many manufacturers name
their floats based on the weight they can support, e.g. "Edo 2100" can
hold up 2100 lbs.

Each model of float by each mfr. will have an STC allowing it to be
installed on certain airframes. Also, sometimes the STC for float A
allows an increase in the gross weight (b/c the floats generate lift
in flight) while float B, which is no different really, did not do to
testing to obtain this modification. Worth checking each model to see
who offers the best overall package.

Also, a Champ would not be my choice of airframe, I'd much prefer a
PA-18, but if you just want to go for a ride around the lake it's
probably plenty.

Training is very important. Every landing is being made off-airport
and the equipment is less forgiving. If you haven't earned your rating
yet and want to learn with a bunch of real professionals, check these
guys out:

http://arctic.net/akfloats/

Just be forewarned that once you've flown in Alaska everything else
will pale in comparison.

Best,
-cwk.