Driving on the road is hazardous. There are a lot of people out there who are aggressive, bad drivers, distracted drivers, uninsured, Don’t let someone cause an accident and then try to blame you for it. A dashcam will always tell the truth!
I personally, use a Garmin Dashcam 46, and made this video with it. It records audio, shows GPS location and speed, as well as date and time. I think my favorite feature is the hands-free voice control. When something happens you just tell the camera to save a video, and it will. No distractions from driving, just safe, hands-free operation. Don’t make it your word against theirs, show the police, and your insurance company what really happened.
These devices will pay for themselves the very first time you need them. They’re cheap insurance against fraud. You don’t have to get the same one I have, there are many out there on the market. Find one within your budget, with the features you need. Don’t wait until it’s too late. I’ll even direct you to the Amazon search page for dashcams. Don’t be sorry, and wish you got one after the accident.
Way back in 2007 I started a YouTube channel. It had no theme or mission, it was just a way for me to express myself with random videos. Over the years I have started to see a theme develop around aviation. I started with a hand-held video camera and no audio cable. It was crude, but some of those older videos have some big view counts.
In 2005 I bought my airplane, and I realized what I wanted my channel to be about. I have since bought some GoPro cameras, audio cables, and mounts. My son Alec created a logo for me to brand my YouTube page. it has since become my digital identity across all forms of social media. You’re going to start to see me using this blog in a partnership with my YouTube channel.
So now, I’ve got a channel with 70ish videos, a brand, and a growing audience. As of this writing, I have 366 people subscribed to my channel. My first goal is to build it to 1,000 subscribers.
I am going to ask my current and future subscribers what they would like to see on my channel. I want to create something that you want to watch. What have you always wanted to know about general aviation? Let me know, and I might make a video about it. I will need ideas for future videos.
If you’re reading this blog post, please visit my channel, watch some videos, and subscribe! I will need your help in growing the channel. Any suggestions that you might have would be greatly appreciated!
If you’re not already aware, I am an aviation enthusiast. I am a private pilot and plane owner. I do my best to try and make the thrill of flying available to as many people as I possibly can. I am an EAA member and a Young Eagle’s Pilot who gives free plane rides to kids at Young Eagle rallys. My favorite plane ride has always been giving someone their very first ride in a general aviation airplane.
As airplanes go, I’ve got a relatively small one. It is a 1967 Piper Cherokee 140. I can carry myself and three small kids, or myself and 2 adults. I’m obviously never going to be able to give everyone a plane ride, so I try to supplement that with video. I have a YouTube Channel that I post a lot of videos on. Almost all of these videos are aviation related.
Today I posted my latest video about how to record flights and what you need to make a great video, hoping that another pilot somewhere could also share aviation with the general public. It’s not exactly the same as flying, but I try to make my videos interesting. If you’re a pilot, this blog post is for you!
I am partial to using GoPro cameras in the cockpit. They are small, powerful, and produce incredible HD video up to 5K! I own a total of 4 GoPro cameras. I’ve got an older Hero 4 Black, a Session, and 2 new Hero 9 Blacks. GoPro has some good mounting options available, but there are also companies that make mounts specifically for GoPro. My Pilot Pro, and NFlightCam are two that I have purchased and been very happy with. My newly purchased My Pilot Pro GoPro Airplane Mount is rock solid! It is secured to the tail tie down, or wing tie down points with a cam-lock lever. Easy to install and remove. The NFlightCam mounts I bought 6 years ago, and they still work great. The clamshell spud mount, and suction cup are still used almost every time I fly. I would never use a suction cup mount outside the plane. I understand that GoPro and NFlightCam both say that they will hold, but I would rather use a mechanical mount outside. I’m sure no one is going to replace my camera should I lose it.
“Safety is my number one priority”
Randy Broderick
When I decide to record a flight, safety is my number one priority, and I don’t ever want to be fiddling with the cameras in flight. I get my cameras mounted in their specific locations so I can capture multiple camera angles, interesting footage, and good quality audio. Once the cameras are mounted, turned on, and the passengers have boarded, then, and only then, do I start the engine. It’s the “set it and forget it” approach to safe in-flight video.
My GoPro Hero 4 is always mounted on the windscreen in front of me and to the left. I have an audio cable that connects the airplane’s intercom and radio traffic to the camera. It is a must if you want to make really good flying videos with real radio communications. My GoPro Session is mounted either on the tail tie down ring, or the left wing spud. Both positions give a unique perspective. One of my Hero 9’s I mount to the ceiling just over my right shoulder. This gives a great view out the front window, as well as the instrument panel. The Hero 9 has an incredible sensor with out of this world HDR capability. No matter how bright the view out the front wind screen gets, the panel is still not back lit, and completely readable. My other Hero 9 is either mounted on the left side window behind my left shoulder, or to the front windscreen looking forward.
My GoPro Cameras
There are of course, lots of other camera options out there, but my personal belief is that GoPro is the industry leader in compact action cameras. Whatever you use, please be safe with the technology when you fly. I would certainly trust the mechanical mounts on the exterior of my plane, to be solid enough to safely and securely hold my cameras.
Do you have any camera, or mounting solutions you like? Maybe some techniques that I’ve not discussed in this post? Please leave me a comment either here, or on my YouTube video linked above.
I did not grow up with a lifelong desire to learn to fly, it was always one of those things that I considered unattainable. I was just a kid, only rich grown-ups much smarter than I, were meant to be pilots.
I have a friend who owns a ’55 Tri-Pacer. I flew with him sporadically for 20 years or so, with him letting me take the controls many times. One day I made a statement that someday I’d like to learn how to fly. When we landed, he gave me a phone number and said to call this guy for a discovery flight. If I liked it, I should take another lesson, if I still liked it I should take yet another lesson. Continue doing this until I either don’t like it anymore, or I have a pilot’s certificate.
After expressing my interest in aviation to my wife she became concerned with our family budget. We had 2 boys at home at this time, and, well, learning to fly isn’t cheap. I made a promise to her that I wouldn’t use any money out of my paycheck to pay for flight instruction. I agreed to find another source of income to pay exclusively for my lessons.
I’ve had a passion for photography since I was 10 years old. I took my first photography class when I was young, and learned how to shoot and develop black and white film. Over the years, shooting on film was replaced with a small digital camera, and then a high-end DSLR. It was my favorite hobby for many years, but it made me no money. I decided I would try to make a go with a photography business on the side.
I started out offering to shoot graduation/senior photos for students. The money I earned went into a separate “flying” account that I used to pay for my first flying lesson. The money spent a lot quicker than it took to earn it. I started to offer wedding photography (ugh), then moved on to sports photography and class reunions. I was spending most weekends at my new second job, but it was really paying off. My lessons became more frequent, and I started advancing toward a pilot’s license.
The plane I was renting was a Cessna 150 out of Galion Ohio, N11142. At the time I paid $82hr for the plane wet, and $35hr for instruction. I flew three full summers, and very rarely in the winter due to pre-heating requirements. Over three summers I paid a total of $6,500 for flight instruction, plane rental, third-class medical examinations, renters insurance, miscellaneous educational supplies (books, study guides, etc.), a written test, and finally a check ride. It took 2 1/2 years from the first lesson to check ride, but I finally obtained my private pilot’s license! I paid for it all with my camera, computer, and editing software.
Check ride complete! Officially a licensed pilot
Ten years later, I feel this was a good decision. Instead of looking back and wondering what it would’ve been like to learn to fly, I can look back at a decade of great experiences. I’ve got close to 400 hours in my logbook and now own my own airplane. I was very frugal when learning to fly. I stretched my money as far as I could and did it for $6,500. You will find it difficult to do it for that cost these days, but I can guarantee that it will never again be any cheaper than it is today!
Chel and I were walking our dog Woody around the walking track at the reservoir the other night when I happened to think about taking an evening flight. I thought of my friend George, and how the last two times I invited him to go, he was unable. Well, I texted him and he was available to go. We agreed to meet at the airport at 7pm for our ride.
When Chel and I returned home from our walk, I noticed that the sky seemed pretty dark to the west, so I opened one of my weather apps on my phone to see a storm moving in. I texted George and asked him if he could come out any sooner so we could get our short ride in before it arrived. He agreed to meet me at 6:30.
I arrived at the airport at about 6:15 to do my pre-flight inspection so we’d be ready to go by the time George arrived. Two other friends, Jason and Jeff, happened to be at the airport to take a ride in their powered parachutes. We stood there looking west and the dark clouds were almost on top of us. Jason and Jeff decided to cancel their flights, and I felt George and I should cancel as well.
This would be the third time I’ve invited George to go flying, and the third time that it didn’t work out. At least he made it to the airport this time though. He wanted to see my plane, so we spent some time checking it out as he asked questions about it. About 20 minutes later we noticed the bright sunshine on the hangar directly in front of mine. We walked out of the hangar and looked to the west to see a clear blue sky and no wind, so we decided to pull the airplane out.
George had been texting with our friend Dave on and off during his visit to the airport. Dave is also a pilot based out of Mansfield. When George told Dave that we were going to go for a ride, Dave decided to join us.
Formation Flying Over North Central Ohio
George and I took off from Shelby and flew east toward Mansfield. We had to hold for a little while, as Dave taxied out to depart. Once Dave was airborne, we met up in the air and flew in formation west toward Crawford County. It was incredible! This was my first time flying in formation with another plane. When we got close to Crawford County Dave made a right 360 to provide separation between us as I descended for a touch and go. Dave followed behind me and did the same.
After departing Crawford County George and I headed back to Shelby, as it was getting dark and I was not night current. Dave followed, and we all landed and went to my hangar. We spent the next 30 minutes debriefing our flight and having a good time just talking. This was an experience I could not have had if I were not on vacation.
My baby is back at home! After a 2-month annual inspection and maintenance event, she is back in her hangar where she belongs. General aviation (GA) aircraft are required to undergo an annual inspection no later than the last day of the month, one year after the previous inspection. Last year my Piper Cherokee 140 was signed off the first week of December 2017. I had until December 31, 2018, to deliver her to an airframe and powerplant mechanic (A&P) with inspection authority (IA). She was flown to the shop on December 28.
Annual maintenance on N4257J
I dropped her off with the expectation of having a relatively clean and inexpensive annual, but if you know anything about airplanes, that rarely ever happens. The only issue I was aware of was a crackling in the intercom due to a bad (bent) headphone jack on the right side. I bought a new set and had them installed. The inspection that followed turned up a few other issues that had to be dealt with.
Fuel tank removal for inspection and repair
The first issue that was found was evidence of an old fuel leak around the sending unit for the fuel gauge. It was not visibly wet at the time, but there was evidence of a leak at some time in the past. The seal was cracking and it was suggested that a new seal be installed. This required removal of the fuel tank from the right wing.
Records also indicated that it had been 2 years since the ELT battery had been replaced. Upon inspection of the ELT, it was noted that the battery displayed an expiration date of 12/18. A new battery was ordered and installed.
Her propeller was removed for service to repair a couple of nicks in the leading edge due. Small stones or other FOD most likely caused the nicks. During the prop inspection, it was noted that the spinner had developed a crack and was no longer serviceable. A new spinner assembly was ordered, painted and installed.
Nose bowl with cracked and chipped paintWheel pants for nose-gear removed for paint
The spinner, nose-bowl and wheel pants were sent to Charlie’s Body Shop in Shelby Ohio for paint. While there it was noted that the nose bowl was cracked, most likely due to a bird strike prior to my owning the plane. I had the fiberglass work done, and all three parts painted. Charlie and his team do excellent work, and I recommend this shop for great service and quality craftsmanship.
Anti-chaff tape installed on the cowling
Prior to re-installing the cowling, I removed the old, oil-soaked anti-chaff tape and replaced with new. This should help seal the cowling and provide for better airflow across the cylinders.
The final repair for the year was the replacement of the carburetor. The original carb had a fuel leak and a service bulletin on it that required it to be rebuilt or replaced. I opted for replacement due to cost comparison. It was replaced with a genuine Marvel Schebler overhauled carb.
I also opted for an oil analysis this year. The cost is relatively low and consecutive analyses could show a trend of any unusual wear in the engine. I’m anxious to get the results!
What it’s like to own an airplane…
The parts sent to Charlie’s had a 3-week backlog due to other scheduled work, and the carb replacement took longer than expected due to an issue with the new carb and shipping back and forth. Finally, on March 1, 2019 N4257J was signed off as having been inspected, repaired, and airworthy. She is due for her next annual inspection no later than March 31, 2020. Wish me luck…
What is that you say? There is a truck driving competition? That’s right, there is. Established in 1937 by American Trucking Associations, it was originally named the National Truck Roadeo.
As stated in the ATA publication Facts for Drivers “The overriding objective of the Championships program is two-fold: (1) to provide an incentive for professional truck and step van drivers to perfect their crafts and drive accident-free, and (2) to improve the media’s and general public’s image of truck drivers and the motor carrier industry.”
Classes
Each state holds its own state competition consisting of nine different classes. These are:
step van
straight truck
three-axle tractor semi-trailer
four-axle tractor semi-trailer
five-axle tractor semi-trailer
five-axle sleeper
flatbed
tank truck
twin-trailers
Eligibility
Every driver that wants to compete in their state competition must meet eligibility requirements which include being accident-free for the 12 months immediately prior to their state competition. Each driver must also hold the necessary license with the proper endorsement for the class they compete in, as well as have a valid medical card. The driver must be continuously employed by the entering employer for at least 12 months prior to the event, and perform the duties of a professional driver for 11 of the past 12 months. Drivers can only compete in one class of competition and only one state competition during any given calendar year.
The Competition
As stated above, each state holds its own competition sanctioned by ATA and following ATA rules and guidelines. The competition consists of a written examination, pre-trip inspection, and skills test
The written examination consists of multiple choice questions on the driver’s knowledge of the trucking industry, safety, security, health and wellness, driving rules and regulations, as well as first aid measures and fire safety. All of the written exam questions are based on the current edition of Facts for Drivers.
The pre-trip inspection test challenges a driver to find all the ‘planted’ defects on a piece of equipment in a specific period of time. The time allotted is different depending on the type of equipment being inspected. Points are earned for identifying the defects, and for demonstrating a good routine in your inspection.
The skills test require a driver to successfully maneuver their vehicle through six course ‘problems’ designed to simulate the driving obstacles faced by professional drivers in their everyday driving. These obstacles can be but are not limited to, parking, backing, maneuvering through tight spots and other typical challenges.
A driver competing in the “doubles” class passes in front of the grandstand at NTDC 2018 in Columbus Ohio
The Nationals
Each of the 50 states will send its first-place finishers in each of the nine classes to the national competition. That is a whopping 450 contestants! The drivers who advance to this level are truly the best of the best!
The National Truck Driving Championship (NTDC) is held indoors and the location changes from year to year. Here, each contestant tries to hold their own against 49 other state champions in their class of competition. The test is harder, the pre-trip inspection is harder, and the skills test is harder.
There are a lot of the same faces at NTDC year after year. These drivers put safety first in their everyday duties in order to be eligible to compete. In my lengthy driving career, I have competed in 19 state competitions and one national competition. Trucking companies support this event because they realize the value they receive when their drivers strive to drive accident free.
If you’re a driver and are interested in the competition, ask your employer for more information on the program.
About a month ago Chel and I, along with another couple, traveled to Punta Cana for some sun and fun. Our destination this year was the Riu Bambu. It is part of the Riu resort complex on Bavaro Beach.
We were no strangers to this resort, as it was our fourth stay at the Bambu. Our first time there was in 2008, and it was our first ever Caribbean vacation. Maybe that is what makes this place so special to us.
This year was a dramatically different experience for us at this resort, as it had undergone a complete renovation since hurricane Irma’s visit. This was evident upon arriving and checking in at the front desk.
Lobby area at Riu Bambu
The outdoor theatre area has been completely redone as well. The bar with the domed roof has been removed to accommodate more seating and a new bar built. They have also added a couple of new pools! The buffet areas have been enclosed with glass doors and lots of windows to keep hungry birds and insects away from the cooking areas and the food.
New bar area
One of the best improvements they have made was the all-day free wifi throughout the entire resort! For years you were only permitted one hour of wifi per device, per day. Now you can keep in contact with friends and family while poolside, in your room, or anywhere on the grounds!
There is a noticeable lack of available outlets throughout the resort though. With so many travelers who need their devices recharged, you would expect outlets to be available near seating areas, but sadly, there are none. this is the only negative point I have about this resort.
This resort is our favorite. If you get a chance to go to the DR, please consider the Riu Bambu. You won’t be disappointed.
Have you ever wondered about how well general aviation aircraft are maintained? General aviation aircraft are privately owned planes that are not used for commercial flight, such as my 1967 Piper Cherokee, or Cessna’s.
general aviation aircraft are maintained? General aviation aircraft are privately owned planes that are not used for commercial flight, such as my 1967 Piper Cherokee, or Cessna’s.
A GA aircraft must undergo a thorough inspection annually. The items to be inspected are listed in the Federal Aircraft Regulations 14 CFR Appendix D The inspection is thorough and is very time (and money) consuming. Most shops will quote you a flat rate for your inspection based on what type of airplane you are flying. This is just the beginning though. Any issues that come to light during the inspection must be remedied by a certificated airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanic. The needed parts, and the labor to repair or replace them are what make the annual inspection so expensive.
Fuel tank removed from my wing to repair a fuel gauge sending unit
I am writing this post now because I am at the tail-end of my annual on 4257J. Over the past several weeks I have been involved in an owner-assisted inspection. This is a great way for a pilot to become more familiar with his plane, and be aware of any possible issues that may arise. This year I needed a new spinner on my prop, fuel sending unit repaired (above), and a new carburetor. I also opted to have the wheel pants on my nose wheel, as well as the nose bowl part of the cowling, repainted due to lots of chips in the paint.
We are almost finished with the job. The new carb will be installed this week and I’ll be good to go for another 12 months. The annual inspection, when done correctly, is a huge job. I only assisted on the weekends and wasn’t present for much of the activity. If you are interested in finding out just how in-depth the process is, please click on the link in the second paragraph. Have a great week!
So, I’ve had this blog for quite a few years now and I know it is grossly underutilized. With so many other options out there for a social media presence, I usually opt for the short blurbs on Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter. I am very busy at my job at FedEx Freight and struggle to find time for a meaningful blog post.
I have always had a desire to create something that was worthy of being read, but when confronted with the blank page in front of me, I never had the nerve to really write about anything meaningful. I didn’t want to open myself up to the brutality of some of the internet trolls out there by writing about myself. Today, I am going to start making an effort to post to this blog more regularly, and if you’re reading this, I’d like some inspiration. Tell me what you’d like to see.
In the mean time, I will just jot down some of my daily thoughts, what I’ve been up to, and what I’m looking forward to. Have a great day!
Randy Broderick 