BD-5 Customer Information Bulletin No. 4

N503BD made its first flights recently and the performance looked very good. There 45 minute flights were made on Friday, March 15, 1974, using the 650cc engine. Over the weekend the 650cc engine was removed and the 720cc engine was installed. The aircraft made several flights each day with the 720cc engine from Monday, March 18, 1974 to Thursday, March 21, 1974. For the first time, we are now able to compare both engines using the same aircraft. We will publish a complete pilot report in our next newsletter. However, these figures for the 650cc engine might make the waiting easier. Take off roll, approx. 600 feet. Rate of climb at 3000 feet, 1800 FPM; at 7000 feet, 1100 FPM.

As some of you have probably found out, we are a bit behind in answering your letters. We apologize for this and are doing everything possible to catch up. As more and more builders are starting their projects, the amount of mail we are receiving has increased tremendously.

We are now asking that all phone calls and letters be directed to your nearest dealer. We will make sure that he is informed each week as to the status of delivery of parts and plans. Also, each dealer will receive a copy of all technical problems and solutions that are sent to any other dealer by our builders.

Address corrections or changes and transfers of ownershipas well asspecial shipping instructions should continue to be mailed directly to Bede Aircraft. Please be sure to include your priority number with eachletter or phone call.

If you will all cooperate I am sure that the time required to receive a reply to your inquiries can be greatly reduced.

If any of you have materials packages stored in the garage or basement, it would be a good idea to check the contents once a week for signs of corrosion. Packages should be stored so that air can circulate underneath. Never store packages so they are in direct contact with the concrete. The corrosive chemicals in the concrete can be absorbed through the cardboard and cause damage to the parts inside. This is especially important in damp or humid climates.

If corrosive spots are detected, they should be removed with an abrasive pad or fine emery paper and the parts coated with zinc chromate primer.

The parts can also be protected with an alodine treatment. However, this is a corrosive process in itself and can do more harm than good if applied incorrectly. Areas of the wing that will be in contact with the fuel can be coated with a sloshing compound applied with a brush. A strip of masking tape should be used on areas that will later be bonded.

I might also point out that corrosive chemicals can be carried in the air. If you live in an industrial area, or an area subject to smog, it might be a good idea to check those parts you have hanging overhead in the garage.

Paragraph 62 of the horizontal stabilizer plans has the length of the rear spar called out incorrectly. Instead of 28.94" it should be 29.67".

Sincerely,

<signed>

Frank Andrews, BD-5 Sales Manager