More talking.  It's great getting a group together, and seeing everyone again.

Here we are at the Chaska boat landing, about 30 miles southwest of Fort Snelling. 

Group shot after eating take-out from Embers.   Dave and Paul decided to head back to the landing at this point.  Michael, Dennis decided to continue up river another 17 or so miles to Belle Plaine. 

Just about done with the repairs!

This nice LARGE hole formed just before flying up the Fort Snelling landing, LUCKILY.  The corner wore off, caught the water, and ripped along the back.  That ended my hovering for the day. After a quick gas-up, Dennis and Michael headed towards the Mississippi river to check out the Ford Dam.  However, boat traffic, (and "huge wakes") forced them to turn back, ending what was a near perfect day of cruising!

  Getting ready to take off.

Oops, maybe not. 

I installed a quick drain system in the skirt, but used string to hold it in place.  Here, I'm replacing the broken string. Yes, it is fun to bank a hovercraft on the dike (hehe)

I lost a pin that holds the rudder control to the rudder.  Luckily, this happened in an area with sandbars.  I had no steering control, but the LHD wanted to land at this sandbar and hovered right to it.  Easy fix, quick pix, and we're on our way. 

Michael flew down the Belle Plaine landing.  Just as he hit the bottom, we heard a very nasty sound, much like a foam prop breaking apart (which I remember all too well)  Keep in mind, we're almost 50 miles from home.  Well, it turned out to be a loose strap which broke through the thrust guard, hit the prop, and wrapped around the engine shaft.  No serious damage, and we headed for home.