Webco - Gear Transmissions

[JMH23]

There was a post recently on Delphi that explained that Bob Weber was trying to sell his Twin for funds for his legal defense. Suggestions were made about contributing to Bob's legal defense. I wholeheartedly support that idea as Webco has been a great supporter of and supplier of parts and services to Comanches for a long time. As I thought more about the issue of the UPN filed against Webco, I became concerned that there are at least 2 aspects to this issue. First is the defense of Webco against action for the activities outlined in the UPN. The second aspect is developing an approved repair process for landing gear transmission assemblies and also fuel valves. Webco has effective repair processes, as the repairs they have made do work. But we need a FAA approved procedure. Shortly after the UPN was issued, I recall that there was a report that Webco had engaged a DER to develop the FAA approved procedures. Has this occured? Is this an area where ICS could help? I respectfully submit to the ICS BOD that having an approved repair procedure for landing gear transmissions, motors, etc., and fuel valves is of vital interest to all ICS members and recommend that this become an area of focus and action for the BOD.

Joe Hand
N9023P
14227

[Hansmeister]

The repair procedure for the twin fuel valves has been DER approved, and is currently in revision.

No current approval for the gear motors/transmission yet.

[Jody Brausch]

Hi Joe. I completely agree. It seems to me that the landing gear transmission, and associated component parts, may be the achilles heel of the comanche design. Once the available servicable parts are gone, current owners and operators of the breed could find themselves in a real pickle. I would not be all that anxious to put my twinkie on a set of Edo-Aire floats. I am of the opinion that the ICS should pick up the mantle on the work that Webco has already done in this area, and see what, if anything, can be done to get their process TSO'd. With respect to helping Bob pay his legal bills, I'm all for it. Where do I send my donation?

[Zach Grant L1011jock]

Jody,
There are several efforts in the works...we shal see who wins the race.
-Zach

[JMH23]

Thanks, Hans, for the update. I know others have indicated a willingness to donate to the cause. John Rabourne on Delphi indicated that he was trying to contact Webco's attorney to set up a way to receive donations. Haven't heard a response yet. I suppose one could send a check to Bob Weber directly and it would be in the appropriate place without relying on someone else to setup a collection point.

Joe Hand
N9023P
14227

[David Pyle]

I believe that Dave Fitzgerald, president of ICS and Webmaster here, is contacting Bob Weber to determine the extent to which ICS will be involved with the business and legal matters thoughtfully discussed on this forum, and Delphi. The next ICS board meeting is April 20 in Lakeland and Webco is certain to be on the agenda.

[Dave Fitzgerald]

Hi Joe & Everyone,
Your post brings up an important issue to us all. Dave is correct in his speculation. I have talked to Bob Weber within the last week for quite awhile about the legal issue. ICS will shortly be putting a program together to help support Bob in his defense. I plan to get all the details together at the SBM next week. I believe I speak for everyone on the board when I say we are 100% behind Bob in this effort.

Also, Bob mentioned he is doing his best to work his way through the issue with the gear transmission and believes it is achievable.

I encouraged Bob convince his attorney to communicate more with the society by way of an occasional update as to where things are and what is going on. Bob agrees that it is important to keep everyone informed and will talk to Ed about this.

Bob assured me he plans to do his best to resolve these unfounded and confusing charges found in the UPN letter.

[Jody Brausch]

[JMH23]

[jeffrey aryan]