Since by process of elimination I seem to have the most experience with this issue, let me make a suggestion.  Colyn prompted me to think about whether we could fabricate a test chamber for the pressure heads.  Initially I responded no, but the more I thought about it, the more I think it could be done.

So let me throw out a number.  How many folks are having a serious enough problem that they would be willing to invest $800 toward construction of a Dukes test cell, with associated digital manometers and such, to test and calibrate their Dukes systems?  I would be willing to build the contraption and run the tests if enough (but not too many) folks are interested.

The cell would also be useful for calibrating the emergency outflow valve (yes, it is adjustable and is probably not set correctly from the factory).

Feel free to respond directly to me.  If enough folks sign up, I’m game.

Lancair Owners,

We have at least three Lancair owners that are having difficulty with their pressurization controllers, and little technical information or help appears to be available. If anyone has good technical information about troubleshooting and/or maintaining the Dukes controller used in pressurized Lancair aircraft, I’d be pleased to consolidate and provide as a package to needy owners…

Please send any such info directly to me at rpastusek@htii.com.

Thanks in advance,

Bob Pastusek

For LOBO

$5,000 is a lot when it could be solenoid, seating, leak, controller or lines.   Can you isolate the problem further?  What kind of test tells you the valve is not moving?  Most of the problems I've seen are dirty seals which can be cleaned or worn seals that get replaced.