680F Commander

[rcdettmer]

I just found this forum. Great to know of another online source of information and contacts with fellow Commander owners. I have owned a 680F for 10 years. I am currently breaking in new engines (overhauled by Central Cylinder in Omaha, NE). My flights typically range throughout California and the western states. I flight plan for 190 kts at around 11K to 12K, with a cruise climb of 140 kts and 1,000 fpm. Looking forward to hearing from other 680F owners.

Randy Dettmer, AIA
680F / N6253X

[A380Captain]

Hi Randy, brand new member. looking at purchasing a piston at some stage unless I win the lottery tomorrow and then I'll look at a turbine.
Currently looking at a local 680F, that needs at least 1 engine overhaul. What is a good estimate to get done ?

Bruce Simpson
Sydney, Australia

[rcdettmer]

Central Cylinder in Omaha, NE did both of my engines for $50K ea (ouch..!!) The good news is that they did an excellent job, took about 8 weeks, and have provided good support. There were a couple of glitches that came up during installation that Central Cylinder took care of right away. Also, they are experts in the IGSO 540 geared engines. Good luck with finding a 680F. What a great machine - fast and hauls a huge load.

Randy Dettmer, AIA
San Luis Obispo, CA

[A380Captain]

Hi Randy,
thank you for the information. No one said it was going to be cheap. I'm still negotiating so we'll see how it goes. Any experience/ knowledge of converting IGSO-540-A1A to the -B1A.
I get across to LAX fairly regularly, do you keep the aircraft in CA.

Bruce Simpson
Sydney,Australia

[rcdettmer]

Hi Bruce,
Don't know about converting from A1A to B1A. I suggest talking to Dave at Central Cylinder (402 451 6368). I keep the airplane at San Luis Obispo (KSBP), about 200 mi north of LA. Stop by for a visit, and we'll go for an airplane ride. I'd love to show your how she flies. You can contact me at 805 541 4864 or email - rcdettmer@charter.net. Cheers.

Randy

[Gonzalo Archila]

Hello, we got a AC680F for sale low time engine and airframe, one owner since new!!!!!! P& I 0n 2008 one of a kind!!!! aditional information please contact me at:

GONZALO ARCHILA
WWW.AEROCENTRO.COMM
E-MAIL: GARCHILA@AEROCENTRO.COM
PHONE: (581414) 2370744

[geeoh480]

I have a fan page for Twin Commanders on facebook, I flew a 680FP many years ago that was in service with Campbell Ewald Advertising in Bloomfield Hills, MI N847CE. You can upgrade to the B1C but TBO remains the same at a meager 1200 hours. Central Cylinder does a fantastic job, they have all geared Lycoming engine support and inventory, I currently own a Helio Super Courier with GO-480-G1D6 and recently went past TBO of 1400 hours. I normally use 2200, 2400, and 2600 power settings for all ops in cruise. The IGSO-540 is on par with these.

There are two Commander 680FP's for sale currently, N6272X and N198JW, both are nice fast load haulers..

Cheers
Stephen

[A380Captain]

Thanks Guys for the really useful info.
I've been busy fixing up my Baron B55 with new engines/ props and Garmin 530/G500 upgrade following a prop strike. I bet that doesn't happen often in the Commander. But still looking for that right Commander.
Thanks Randy for the kind offer, I will certainly let you know if I get a couple of days in LA. I'm currently in London trying to stay clear of the ash.

Regards Bruce