Bob Fields Inflateable Door Seal

[Scott Ducey]

I have the Bob Fields Inflatable Door Seal. Unfortunately, I dont have the pump that is supposed to be attached to it. Question 1: does anyone know where i can get the pump? Question 2: anyone have any thoughts on this mod? Question 3: my door is a real bear to close, is it possible that this mod is interfering with closing the door. Question 4: should i just remove the seal. There is a real loud whistle when i am flying, and believe it emanates from the door.

A confused Twinky Owner.

[N3322G]

Scott,

I can empathize. My PA39 door also whistles and I fix that by wearing a headset. My husband uses a noise-canceling headset.

That being said. Two things make our door difficult. One, it will get out of adjustment over time because the two hinge points on the leading edge of the door create a 'long' lever with the door and some passengers or mechanics lean on the door while entering or exiting the plane. And two, the door seal - of any variety - will age and need to be replaced.

The door can be adjusted but it is a repetitive process, remove, adjust, re-install, repeat as needed and I just don't have that skill or that much patience.

I can only offer my opinion on the inflatable seal. My door closes well enough but some passengers have found it difficult and I have the standard seals, I can't imagine how much more difficult it might be with an inflatable seal. Does the inflatable seal leave space for the little peg the door uses to align itself? If it were me, I'd go to a good Comanche shop, get the approved seal material and install it. Don't forget to do the baggage door as well or over time it will leak.

Hope this is helpful.

Pat Keefer ICS 08899

[Dave Fitzgerald]

[MULEFLY]

[criffus]

[MULEFLY]

[Kristin Winter]