Replacement Seat Tracks

[jrichards]

Got two requests, just today, for technical support for installing the “black” seat tracks. These are not FAA-approved Aerodyme parts and thus I cannot support their installation. If they were approved replacements from Aerodyme, the mechanic calls would not have been necessary because my tracks include step-by-step instructions, ref pics and tools. I assume buyers of the “black” tracks assume they can save money, but that “savings” can disappear quickly as the installer grasps for method data, or, even worse, makes bad assumptions and gets in trouble. Certain features that may be missing on the “black” tracks may render it difficult, or even impossible, to properly remove and re-install the seats, and, guess what… that leads to broken rollers and tracks, or worse.

Aerodyme seat tracks are not only Approved but also Improved in ways that make them stronger and easier to install.

Aerodyme relies on broad based support from the entire fleet to continue investing in development of replacement parts, procedures, and upgrades. Owners and third parties who seek to compete with Aerodyme’s offerings are undermining support for all. For any of you who think my prices are too high, please call so we can discuss. I work very hard to keep my prices reasonable for the effort and cost that that goes in. For those who think lower standards are OK, I respectfully decline to agree. We welcome and embrace third parties to tackle problems we have been unable to yet solve or support but are disappointed when any party just undercuts us for the sake of a few dollars (maybe) saved.

Many thanks to so many of you that trust us with your airplanes and lives.

Jim and Martine

 

[Pete]

Jim, I have a set of your seat rails, both sides, great quality, thanks.

 

[UH1CW2]

Jim, I can appreciate your comments. However, when someone calls me about a gear issue or a control rigging issue or an AD or any of the dozens of phone calls I get from Commander owners that are complete strangers, I help them out. I have never told a fellow aviator that I cannot help them because I didn't manufacture or assemble their aircraft or the parts they need to install. Sometimes I think my phone is 1-800 technical support. It gets a bit overwhelming but the difference is, I know what it feels like to be in a bind and need help.

As a former military aviator, test pilot and maintenance officer we never left anyone hanging. Every pilot in every unit I served in offered whatever advice or information that was asked of them. It isn't about money or ego, it's about helping others with issues and supporting your fellow flyers. We are only on this earth for so many years, why not spend it offering support rather than sending those in need away?

That A&P did contact me and it took all of about a minute to assists with his questions. Not because the parts belonged to me, rather because he was in need of some information and it was free to share and support a fellow individual involved in the same wonderful hobby/sport we all share, AVIATION.

Jim, I know you have worked hard to develop kits and parts for the group, I respect that. I hope we can work together to reduce the ownership cost of these birds and provide quality replacement components that are desperately needed to support this diminishing fleet.

Need to defend myself a bit: I have been a manufacturing/release engineer for over 30 years in the automotive industry. I've also designed and manufactured hundreds of parts for multiple experimental aircraft for over 20 years. Any parts I offer (STCed, PMAed or not) have 3 decades of experience built into them. It's important to note, I design and engineer my products to meet and or exceed the intended application, I also manufacture the product as well. That means I have full control from design conception, engineering, tooling, process, material, manufacturing and quality control, I'm involved from cradle to grave! Those of you that have used items I've produced for Commander Aircraft have firsthand knowledge of the quality and craftsmanship that goes into the items I produce. In the past I have asked the group what they want in a part I am considering manufacturing. I am always open to suggestions for improvements. My goal was and still is to provide support and options to the COG and Commander Drivers. I am in no way going to make a living at it but is sure makes me feel good to be a contributing member in keeping the fleet airborne.

Respectfully,

 

[KikoandPat]

I can say that everyone appreciates ANYTHING ANYONE does to support the fleet. Commanders are much better off with folks such as yourselves. We do not say thank you enough.

 

[plight]

I completely agree with Pat and Kiko's sentiment. Now that we do not have the support of the "Factory" folks like Jim and Phil are INDISPENSABLE in keeping us in the air. I have appreciated the input from both Jim and Phil and all the other pilot/owners who go out of their way to help.