Canadian Challenger Owners Manual - General -

There are a number of accessory items that are available on the after market that you may want to consider for your airplane. Many can be installed after the fact, but some are most easily done while building. One example is a remote choke assembly and throttle quadrant with friction control. Aero Controls in Edmonton make a beautiful set, specifically for the Challenger: 780-458-2422 or aerocontrols@clearwave.ca. Their affiliate LES (Light Engine Services) carries a variety of Rotax parts as well as engine instruments and other items such as fuel line: 780-418-4164 or lighteng@telusplanet.net.

Turbulence Aviation in Quebec is like a supermarket for Challenger goodies. National Ultralight distributes Challenger aircraft and Puddlejumper floats however Turbulence makes numerous Challenger "goodies" including skis, lovely upholstery, custom instrument panels, and lots more. If you're into camping, they have an ingenious 'belly bag' for the Challenger plus a line of ultra light and compact camping gear. Visit www.turbulence.ca or call them at 819-322-2087. They also have a catalogue available.

While many different floats can be used on the Challenger, the ones that work by far the best are Puddlejumpers. While used throughout the light plane industry, they are designed specifically for the Challenger (the owner of the company is a Challenger owner). They are amphibious with retractable landing gear and come with all the attach hardware ready for mounting on our plane. A retractable water rudder is available as an option. This is recommended if you expect to be maneuvering in confined areas.

Skis are available from several sources at varying prices. Over the years we have learned that the important criteria are lightness with great strength (ice drifts are hard), a slippery base and the need for a sharp 'skate blade' under the skis to provide directional control on glare ice. Obviously quality attach hardware is mandatory.

Because of the over 3,000 Challengers sold to date, a great many other items are available from various suppliers for the plane. Always consider weight when adding items to the aircraft. The outstanding performance we enjoy can easily be stifled by adding unnecessary weight.

Challenger owners are extremely fortunate to have a large and capable International Challenger Owners Association. This is manifested in numerous high calibre web gathering places. The sub-section Challenger Resources On The Internet pinpoints the best sites and provides caveats for their use.

The Canadian chapter of the ICOA is headed by Major Claude Roy of Ottawa, email: arm-roy@cyberus.ca, home: 613-836-7243, office: 613-995-9763. In Canada we have major summer and winter Challenger fly-ins as well as numerous other activities. The best way to stay informed about what's going on in the Canadian Challenger world is through www.challenger.ca.

This association is unique in Canada and is an invaluable asset to all owners. Take advantage of it and participate in the activities. You will make new flying friends and find that it will greatly enhance your enjoyment and knowledge of the Challenger.

You have public liability insurance for your aircraft. In general hull insurance is, in our opinion, overpriced. Because of the Challenger's tube and gusset construction, parts are inexpensive and repairs usually relatively easy to do. Insurance is available from several sources. COPA has a plan they offer to members. Membership in COPA is inexpensive and well worthwhile: http://www.copanational.org or 613-236-4901. There are many useful benefits including a comprehensive monthly aviation newspaper with a section devoted to the Canadian ultralight scene.