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, a first-time vintage aircraft owner, experienced significant mechanical setbacks with his 1953 Cessna 170B (an oil leak followed by a throttle blockage) just weeks before EAA AirVenture.
His dedicated mechanic, Ryan, successfully diagnosed and repaired both issues, with the throttle problem being an inadvertent result of the initial oil leak fix.
Despite the intense stress and a backup plan to borrow another aircraft, the author is now packed and ready, hopeful to fly his own plane to AirVenture, exemplifying the highs and lows of antique aircraft ownership.

See a mistake? Contact us.

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.