Hello,

Can anyone enlighten me as to the reason behind the 100lb baggage limit on early s/n aircraft? Is it a structural issue or is it a certification issue?

Regards,

James.

Hi again,

One more try.

My aircraft is an early SN -180 (24-82) and it has a limit of 100lbs in the baggage compartment. I understand that 'newer' air have a limit of 200lbs.

Can anyone tell me if the 100lb limit is due to structural issues with the early aircraft or was it a paperwork issue that was improved as more aircraft came off the line?

Many thanks.

James.

James,

I know you asked a different question but it sounds like to want someone to 'approve' you loading your aircraft different than what your POH says. Pretty sure no one is going to do that.

If you are asking if someone has gotten regulatory approval to change the weight back there - different question. Haven't heard anyone talk about that in the years I've been on the Forums.

Just my thoughts as I don't want you to be frustrated with a lack of answers.

James,
I don't know, but obviously Piper changed other numbers as well after the first 100 aircraft...gear speed, baggage weight, flap speed etc. The TCDS is pretty specific on these limitations, so I don't believe you will get any relief.
Zach

Hi Pat and Zach,

Thanks for your replies.

My question was more for my own general knowledge than anything else. If it was a structural change that was made after the first 100 aircraft then my next question was going to be about the availability of STC modifications etc. If it was a certification issue then there would be no point in pursuing the matter further.

I guess I have my answer given that if an STC existed you folk would undoubtedly know about it.

Many thanks again for your replies.

James.

I add this only for clarification and because this thread made me go look at the placard on the a/c to make sure of my memory, but our 260B is placarded for 250lbs. Most likely a change due to the addition of the additional seats.

Don

Don,
Yes, the B models and later (6 window aircraft) both single and twin are 250# in the baggage compartment (that number does not include the weight of the seats if you have them installed). SN 1-101 (all 180s) are limited to 100# and the lower operational numbers. All subsequent 4 window airframes, single and twin, had the higher gear and flap speeds as well as 200# capacity in the baggage area.

Zach

Hi Zach,

I bought the plane in 1995 and have never seen the seats. The fellow I bought then plane from advised they were up in the storage loft of his hanger which is just across from my hanger. I have never bothered to retrieve them. So I get the 250 plus 2 nifty storage bins under the 3 & 4seats.

Don