air conditioning

[stanley konz]

interested in information leading to electric powered air conditioning

[Kevin McDole]

I don't think there's an electric air conditioner available for the Skymaster. Personally, even if there was, the Skymaster electrical system is kind of whimpy, and I wouldn't consider loading it up with such an add on.

That said, if you're open to a mechanically driven air conditioner, Riley has one that works very well. However, it does add a scoop to the belly which would interfere with a belly pod.

http://www.superskyrocket.com/pages/stckits.htm

[stanley konz]

open to suggestions, pod removed.

[Bob Cook]

Stanley

The 24v AC compressor that was STC'D for the Skymaster was not very effective. You needed heavier alternators besides. It took up valuable floor space (1/2 luggage compartment) and was much heavier than a conventional belt driven system.

There is only one game in town...... Riley. This is a 34A refrigerant system. Works well when it works! I installed one a few years ago and consider it a necessity with the "P" model.
You will need a PTO drive accessory for your engine which escalates the $$.

fyi

Bob

[WebMaster]

Owen Bell has A/C for skymasters, and talked about it in Nashville.

[MikeZ]

I had my own crew put Riley AC into my 79 P337H. It was not easy but the kit from Riley was complete, with minor exceptions, and the service they provided was excellent including after install. I've been flying the 'cool' skymaster for three seasons now and I just can't believe the difference. On a hot ramp when it used to be unbearable, now I'm in a luxury sports sedan. Even in the air, when the sun is shining on the cockpit, on goes the AC, and in 30 seconds the cabin is cool. The difference in fatigue is amazing.

If you are on the east coast, you can take a look at the install. I sometimes have the plane in Boca Raton FL, and sometimes in Kingston, NY.

[kevin]

If you are willing to share Mike, a lot of folks would be interested in knowing what the kit cost, what the install cost, and what the weight difference (reduction in useful load) was?

Thanks,

Kevin

[MikeZ]

Sure, I don't mind sharing info.

The total weight penalty is about 70 pounds, more or less. For the current kit price, contact SuperSkyrocket at http://www.superskyrocket.com/pages/menu.htm.

As far as labor goes, its fairly intensive, but most important would be to have a shop that's done it before. Dave Jonas, the IA that runs my FBO shop, spent many hours doing it on my P337. After the job, I asked him whether he's comfortable enough to flat quote the job for another Skymaster owner, and he said YES. The actualy quote would depend to a certain extent on the plane and its configuration, i.e. does it need the accessory case mod.

If anyone would like to consider this call Dave at 845-336-8400, ext 165.

[Bob Cook]

Mike

I had the Riley installed and it amounts to about 20k by the time you are done. You do need a PTO on the rear gear case drive and this can amount to about 8k (not part of the 20). This was done on a "P" model. It sure reduces fatigue!.

There are alternatives to the PTO without going to TCM and that would reduce the 8k to probably 4k or less.

fyi

Bob