Bolt on Aircraft Engine Performance with Power Flow Systems

Bolt on Aircraft Engine Performance with Power Flow Systems

Author: Seaplane Pilots Foundation August 20, 2025 Duration: 1:26:47

All pilots want more performance from the airplanes they fly, especially seaplane pilots. In this episode of the Water Flying podcast Steve McCaughey sits down with Darren Tilman, President of Power Flow Exhaust Systems to explore one of the best but perhaps least known ways to unlock more power, gain fuel efficiency and reduce overall wear on aircraft engines. So what’s the secret? Upgrade the technology, quality and surprising lack of performance engineering that is characteristic of the exhaust systems fitted to most factory aircraft.

Steve's Super Cub recently was fitted with a new Leading Edge Exhaust Systems package from Power Flow Systems. It was during this process that Steve became so impressed with the manufacturing process, quality and dedication to the product and customer experience that is at the heart of Power Flow Systems approach to business that he insisted on doing a podcast to share what he has learned from Darren and his team.

Save $150 Today! Mention this podcast and receive a $150 off any Power Flow Exhaust system order until 12/31/2025.


There’s a particular kind of freedom found where the runway ends and the water begins, and that’s exactly where the Water Flying Aviation Podcast lives. Produced by the Seaplane Pilots Foundation, this weekly series is for anyone captivated by the unique world of amphibious aviation. Each episode feels like hanging out in a busy seaplane base, swapping stories and practical knowledge. You’ll hear from certified flight instructors breaking down tricky water operations, engineers from manufacturing companies discussing what’s new in floatplane design, and pilots sharing tales from remote lakes and coastal harbors across the globe. Conversations here are grounded in real-world experience, covering essential safety discussions, maintenance tips, and the latest news that matters to the community. Whether you’re an active pilot, an aviation enthusiast dreaming of your first splash-down, or simply someone fascinated by travel and unique cultures tied to waterways, this podcast offers an authentic and engaging perspective. It’s more than just technical talk; it’s about the people, places, and sheer joy that define water flying. Tune in for a regular dose of insight and adventure, directly from those who live it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 120

Water Flying Aviation Podcast
Podcast Episodes
The Great Seaplane Debate: Straight vs. Amphibious Floats? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:25
Join Steve and Abbie as they battle it out over one of the fundamental debates in the water flying world: which seaplane float reigns supreme--straight or amphibious? As the owner of a PA-18 Super Cub on amphibious float…
From Space to Seaplanes : NASA Astronaut Story Musgrave [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:38
Steve and Abbie sit down with NASA astronaut Story Musgrave immediately after he successfully completed his check ride for the Single-Engine Sea rating.SPA Lifetime Member and Seaplane Pilot Foundation donor Story Musgra…
Behind the Scenes of Manufacturing Seaplane Floats [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:32
Learn first hand from Levi Guimond about what goes on behind the scenes manufacturing PK floats and the challenges of flying seaplanes in Maine.The first episode of a continuing series with seaplane and float manufacture…
Seaplane Access in Colorado [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:25
SPA Colorado Field Director, Ray Hawkins, joins Steve & Abbie to discuss the challenges of gaining seaplane access in Colorado. Despite significant opposition, progress is being made. Learn why seaplane access in Colorad…
Where Can Seaplanes Land? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:30
SPA Field Director Mark Wrasse explores where seaplanes can and cannot land with Steve & Abbie. There are tools to help determine this such as SPA's Water Landing Directory app, but to the surprise of many the answer is…
On The Step - The Wildly Popular Seaplane Podcast from Down Under [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:14
Join Steve & Abbie as they speak with Daniel Bolton (AKA ThatMallardGuy) about his experiences as a commercial turbine Mallard pilot in Australia, and the seaplane journey's that have influenced the creation of his wildl…
Getting a Multi Engine Seaplane Rating in an Aircam [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:36
Steve & Abbie sit down with Mark Twombly the editor of Water Flying magazine to discuss his recent experience earning his multi-engine seaplane rating in an Aircam on amphibious floats.
Why Should a Pilot Get a Seaplane Rating? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:49
Join Steve & Abbie as they discuss the "Why" you should get your seaplane rating. Learn from the experiences of this owner operator and an active seaplane CFI as they discuss one of the most frequently asked questions fi…