My FlyTec pod’s airspeed sensor went T.U. I don’t have the dinero to purchase a 6030 so decided to replace the sensor. Some FlyTec carbon pods have the sensor extending out of the top of the pod. I copied that design. The air hitting the sensor may be more "pure" with that design, I don't know.

Below is the original sensor. FlyTec removed the base and reduced the diameter in order to fit the sensor. From the looks of it they used a sander. The impeller ring appears to have some rust. As shown in the lower photo the air goes in the nose hole and out the exhaust.


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Installing the new sensor is straightforward: remove (read tear) the original sensor out and bore some holes. I bought a $8 1-inch hole saw at the hardware store and secured the pod half onto the drill press table using a piece of wood and C-clamp. I could use a milling machine available to me at another shop . But precision isn't crucial and it's just plastic so the home shop drill press works fine.


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After boring the 1-inch hole I used a 1/2 inch end-mill to carve a channel in which the airspeed sensor arm attaches. I cut it deep enough that the sensor extends well above the pod but not so much the plastic becomes weak. Then I drilled a screw hole in which to mount the sensor arm.


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The sensor mounting is cut off and a hole drilled in the mounting arm that aligns with the hole in the pod.


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Finally a stainless screw and lock nut attach the sensor to the pod.


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I haven't flown with it yet (ah, that's the point Jimmy) but held it out the truck window (calm winds) while driving and it's very close to what the truck speedo reads. That was not the case with the old speed sensor.

I want to thank Jeff B. for lending me the airspeed sensor. When I'm done with it I'll tape it back together and return it. I would really appreciate someone lending me their hall or FlyTec wind meter so I can calibrate.

- Jim Steel