Adding an extra landing light? PA-28

S

SmashTime

Pre-takeoff checklist
Joined
Nov 1, 2014
Messages
468
Display Name
SmashTime
The cats out of the bag about my vision being poor. I wear contacts to correct this but at night my vision deteriorates the more I practice night landings (the first few are decent though.)


I am considering lasik type procedure to correct my sight but thought perhaps I could add on another landing light to my cherokee 235. I have a really bright LED as is but moderation isn't my best virtue.

Can I install or add more then 1? I can't think of anyone doing this before but I thought I'd ask you smart people.
 
It would require a field approval. Depending on the FSDO it could be easy or impossible to get. Are you developing cataracts? My night vision went from horrible to as good as it was when I was young after having cataract surgery. Replaces your old yellow lens with a new crystal clear one. It will also correct you to 20/20 in most cases. Don
 
Wingtip lights are available w/STC. Put an HID in each wingtip and it's almost like daylight (okay, I'm exaggerating). Knots2u & RMD have'em available.
 
I don't know much about the 235 but we have separate Landing and Taxi Light.
We put LED in both and it makes a difference.

Anyone know if Lasik still causes halos?
Mrs 6PC had it done about 15 years ago and I recall the Halos being an issue at night.
Not sure if that is still an issue and how it would play into night flying.
 
If you are thinking of adding lights, I'd query whether your problem is one of acuity or whether you are growing cataracts.
I remember my initial problems were reading papers and thinking that the publishers were getting stingy in the ink they were using.
You might consider asking for an eye check for any crystallization (although you might only get a referral for an additional exam if you go to an optometrist, as it is a medical condition)
 
The knots2you ones look great and I've heard great things about them, if they weren't soo overpriced ($2500 with HIDs) Id get a set for my 185.

As far as lights go, upgrade all you landing lights to HIDs, LEDs are cool for taxi but they don't through like nearly as well as a HID.

Carefull with that LASIK, a friend of mine had a slight correction done to his vision and ended up with an infection, haze, end of the day he was worse than when he went in.
 
A Cherokee six I work on has a pair of landing lights installed in the leading edge of the wing just inboard of the tip tanks via STC. I can't remember who the STC holder is, but that may be an option to investigate.
 
SixPapaCharlie said:
Anyone know if Lasik still causes halos?
Mrs 6PC had it done about 15 years ago and I recall the Halos being an issue at night.
Not sure if that is still an issue and how it would play into night flying.
Click to expand...
LASIK is a lot better than 15 years ago. A lot also depends on your eyes and what is necessary to correct them. Talk to your eye doctor.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top