When Unforeseen Circumstances Threaten to Derail Amazing Experiences

During Oshkosh month, the severity of aircraft mechanical problems increases exponentially as the date of the magnificent fly-in nears.

Jason McDowell

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 10:51 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Kimberly Johnson

A fully uncowled engine—not something you want to see when your departure to Oshkosh is only days away. [Courtesy: Jason McDowell]

Key Takeaways:

The author, celebrating the 100th installment of his column, experienced the highs and lows of aircraft ownership firsthand with urgent maintenance issues on his 1953 Cessna 170B just weeks before EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
The Cessna first developed an oil leak, which was fixed, but then a throttle blockage emerged, threatening his ability to fly to the major event.
Despite these setbacks and even arranging a backup plane (a friend's Ercoupe), his mechanic successfully resolved both issues, leaving the author optimistic about flying his own Cessna to Oshkosh.

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In September 2021, just a couple of months after taking delivery of my 1953 Cessna 170B, I wrote the first installment of this column. Since then, I’ve brought you along for the ride, showcasing the magnificent highs and the soul-crushing lows that have come to define airplane ownership for this first-timer.

This is the 100th installment of The New Owner, and I suppose it’s only natural that the milestone is occurring amid a maniacal blend of emotions swirling around said ownership.