Mailing List flyrotary@lancaironline.net Message #34319
From: Bob White <rlwhite@comcast.net>
Subject: First Flight Advice
Date: Mon, 13 Nov 2006 20:56:49 -0700
To: Rotary motors in aircraft <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>
On Mon, 13 Nov 2006 20:48:54 -0600
"Russell Duffy" <rusty@radrotary.com> wrote:

> I'm afraid I don't have your work ethic (or mania as the case may be).
>
> First, thanks to everyone for the comments.  Bob, you might be right about
> the mania part.  I've done just about nothing but work on the plane since I
> started, and I'm looking forward to getting back to some other activities
> for a while.  
>  
> Good luck with your first flight.  How much space do you have for emergency
> landings around your airport?  Also, keep reminding yourself that the engine
> is expendable.  If the choice becomes ruining the engine to get back, then
> it's an easy choice.  
>  
> Cheers,
> Rusty
>
>

Buly, Ed, and Rusty,

Thanks for the comments.  All are appreciated.  Right now from ground
runs, it looks like I will have more trouble with oil cooling than
water.  The exit path from the oil cooler is poor.  Early morning
temps have been favorable recently in the 30-40 F range some
mornings.  That reminds me I don't have any cabin heat!

The BD-4 does a pretty good cruise climb at 120 so I'm hoping to get
good cooling even during the climb.  Cooling is my biggest concern
right now so I'm glad I'm starting in cooler weather.

Funny thing, I was talking to the flight instructor this morning
about emergency strategies.  I told him if necessary I would
sacrifice the engine to get back to the runway.  I told about one of
the rotary guys that has run his engine long enough to make a airport
landing even after he lost all his oil.  There are lots of wide open
fields around the airport, although they are undoubtedly pretty
rough. (photo attached)

Bob W.

--
N93BD - Rotary Powered BD-4 - http://www.bob-white.com
First engine start 1/7/06 - Special Airworthiness Certificate 10/1/06
Cables for your rotary installation - http://www.roblinphoto.com/shop/
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