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Old 10-31-2002 | 12:57 AM
  #45  
MDEE
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From: LANCS, UNITED KINGDOM
Default Hotspot Structural Failure

Update : I started this thread on behalf of Mr Birkett, the owner of the delaminated Hotspot.
Despite writing to Graupner via registered mail he has still received no response.
I want to make it clear that the aircraft was not overpowered (AMT Mercury) ,it was less than 10 flights old and it was being flown by a trainee under my supervision at mid throttle. This aircraft had nose and main doors.
I think the solution MEC has suggested ie using screws to hold the skin to the mounts and former is probably the best fix so far.
The addition of wheelwell liners is also a good idea, however they are not a fix on their own. The skin bond in the undercarriage area is obviously not strong enough.
I'm not surprised one has disintegrated at high speed, we suffered major damage at low speed.
I mentioned in an earlier post my concern that batteries should not be placed in the area behind the undercarriage mounts, MEC had a lucky escape, make sure batteries are firmly secured elsewhere.
I will update you all if Graupner ever reply to Mr Birketts letter

Thank you