Twin Comanche interiors

[Eric Kallio]

As I continue to research the PA-30/39 models I am having trouble finding a definitive answer to a questions. Is there any approved changes to the rear seats in the "A" model to eliminate the bench seat and open the baggage area up like you see in the "B" and later models? I frequently carry cargo that would require perhaps removing a single seat, or more often, just needing to be able to have a rear passenger reach back into the baggage area. I would hate to have to rule out the "A" models, but the bench seat and closed off baggage is a deal breaker for me right now. Anyone done a mod like this, or know of a field approval or something somewhere?

Eric

[bernard nowlen]

If there is no brace( structural/airframe related) for the vertical set backs you should be able to remove the hat shelf and gain access without any 337/log entries etc. bernie

[jeffrey aryan]

Eric,

First, there is no "A" model for the PA-30/PA-39 series of aircraft. It was just listed as a PA-30.

Yes, bucket seats can be installed. It's not that easy but can be done. Hans made up a structural truss for his mod and used Seneca seats. I used a later model set of bucket seats from a twin Comanche. Essentially, you have to make your own floor boards and seat belt attachment points If you go with Comanche seats. You also need to get seat rails and seats which are hard to find. Now find a good sheet metal shop do the work. BUT, before you get started you need to get all your paperwork approved and submitted.


Jeff Aryan

[steen]

Eric,
Just buy a "B"or later model and enjoy the third window.
Steen

[SLIMDREDGER]

We have a set of back seats, the long seat rails, etc. for sale. ahpowers@aol.com

[Eric Kallio]

When the time comes I think I am just going to go with the B models or later. I transport rescue animals often and don't want to have to lock them in the dark baggage compartment. I typically have them where my 'flight attendent' (girlfriend) can get to them with treats or interact with them if they get scared or start whining. I have no issue doing some work to get a pseudo project plane back up to par and already expect to do avionics work in whatever I get, but I am not sure i want to mess with any type of field approvals. I still have my RV-10 to sell first. Although I find it interesting that over the past month I have emailed 7 brokers with Twin Comanches for sale that are all but unrespnsive. One sent a basic reply with the link to the controller page but never responded to questions and one was kind enough to reply that the plane had sold. 5 brokers never returned emails or calls. Maybe they aren't interested in selling planes.

Eric

[Kristin Winter]

Eric,

It always amazes me that there are so many people in aviation that lack basic business skills.

When you get to the point of seriously looking, I can help you evaluate aircraft. I recommend obtaining pictures and logbooks first as a lot of aircraft can be eliminated based on those and an unrealistic sales price. I also do pre-buys and flight check outs.

When I went looking for my twin, I also wanted the removable back seats. You can get quite a few smaller crates in a Twinkie. The B and C models also have the hard points for the seat belts for the 5th and 6th seats which are helpful to secure cargo of all types. The seats themselves are worthless unless you have very small kids and no luggage. I ended up with a C model because it came already with the upgraded panel and alternators were standard, though a lot of older Twinkies have been upgraded with modern panels and alternator systems.

[N3322G]

Eric,

FYI. I've flown with Kristin. She's really good, exceptionally knowledgeable and chooses to continue to learn as all good aviation folks do.

[Eric Kallio]

[George Kretschmann]