GoPro Attachments

[Chilito]

Hi, all. I am considering adding a GoPro to my C150 to get a look at the fall colors here in MN, and for some overall flying fun. I have seen them on the wing strut, tail tie down, etc. Looking for advice on what equipment or set up you have and what has/hasn't worked for securing it. Any and all thoughts are appreciated!

 

[cowman]

I’m using a combination of

This https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2788359

And this.

AxPower 360 Degree Swivel Arm for... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C4BGZVG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share


Biggest issue I’ve found is the battery only seems to last about 30-40 minutes but I’m new to gopros. The mounts are solid though. I was really worried the swivel would get pushed back by the air hitting it but it stays in place without issue.

 

[Turbo-Arrow-Driver]

This is not a comment about safety -- I'm not going to weigh in on that. My impression has been that attaching ANYTHING to the airframe would create an airworthiness concern with the FAA. I'd appreciate hearing from others as to whether this viewpoint is accurate.

 

[cowman]

This is not a comment about safety -- I'm not going to weigh in on that. My impression has been that attaching ANYTHING to the airframe would create an airworthiness concern with the FAA. I'd appreciate hearing from others as to whether this viewpoint is accurate.

I know this has been discussed and someone will be along to give the specific FAA verbiage but the basic answer is they don’t care about a tiny camera mounted using a temporary mount that doesn’t alter the airframe or require tools to install. In other words if you attach something using thumbscrew or a suction cup it won’t be an issue.

The even simpler answer is that it hasn’t caused a problem and until/if it does they’re not worried about it.

 

[Bell206]

My impression has been that attaching ANYTHING to the airframe would create an airworthiness concern with the FAA

FYI: It depends on a number of things and how Part 43 is applied to the installation. In this case, there is an FAA memo out specifically on external camera mounts which makes it quite easy and legal to install them. Regardless, it is always up to the installer if there are any airworthiness concerns and if the FAA has issues over the install they hold the burden of proof as to why it's unairworthy.

 

[Turbo-Arrow-Driver]

Thanks for the update! I knew it was okay to use clamps and suction cups inside but had never seen a more detailed discussion about mounting stuff on the outside...

 

[SoCal RV Flyer]

The adhesive mounts that come with the camera work really well! I've used them in various places...canopy, and underside of both the wings and horiz. stabilizer.

I know it sounds contradictory, but they hold super well yet are pretty easy to remove. The 3M double-sided tape comes off really cleanly and leaves no residue.

 

[Shepherd]

Bolt it someplace without altering the air frame.
Take it off before your annual.

 

[Eric Stoltz]

Nflightcam.com is a great starting point. Also, search GoPro on this site. Much will be seen.

Best battery life on any GoPro if you shoot 1080 at 30fps and keep the wifi off. I can usually get almost 2 hrs of record on my 7s this way.

Remember to upload it to YouTube!