Page 9 - Volume 16 Number 8

in 1978 the windshield frame was reduced, a ramp weight was allowed and larger yokes were added. In 1979, the GAMA POH book was introduced, the air conditioner motor was 5 pounds lighter and headrests were tapered for easier cabin access. For 1980, a split tail stinger was introduced and a gas spring was added to the upper door. The 1981 propellers used threadless blade retention. In 1982, an oil-heated fuel manifold valve was introduced and lift struts were put on the baggage doors. The increase in recommended TBO for the engines, from 1,400 hours to 1,600 hours, occurred in 1984; higher TBO is dependent on installation of new-style crankshafts, lifters and cylinders. The 1984 model also offered a rudder gust latch and an adjustable-rate cabin door snubber strut.Just A Working GirlOur search for a typical working example of a Cessna 340 led us to N674PC, a RAM IV-modified 340 with the Tom’s Aircraft nacelle tanks, operated by a busy Kansas- based attorney strictly as a business tool. Four Papa Charlie had 20-year- old paint and 6,000 hours of service, yet it was freshly back from a west- coast trip and was ready to head out once again as soon as we were finished with it.The walkaround of a 340 will be familiar to pilots with experience in older twin Cessnas, but there are differences. The aircraft’s ground stance is tall and level, every inch the cabin-class traveling airplane. Oval windows and inward-hinged cockpit storm windows announce its pressurized cabin; the Mustang-style radiator scoop under the fuselage is for the cabin intercooler, needed to reduce the turbo’s hot compressed air to tolerable levels. A 45,000- BTU combustion heater in the nose augments the intercooler bypass to ward off the chill of high altitude.The nose baggage compartment is reached by a swing-up door on either side; shared with remote avionics, itAUGUST 2012TWIN & TURBINE • 7Mike McCracken President 727-796-0903 info@hawkeye-aircraft.comNeed help finding the best aircraft and someone you can trust?We only represent you the buyer.Call to learn how we can help you navigate the risks andhave a smooth transaction.Acquisitions, Aircraft/Fleet Evaluation Services, 34 years aviation experience. 26 years direct sales with a major manufacturer.www.hawkeye-aircraft.com