Bill's Rotorway Exec 162F First Flight

A Long time in coming this is the first of many flights for this helicopter. Thanks to all those who encouraged, supported and tolerated supported the project.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• Bill's
• Rotorway
• First
• Flight

[champarmstrong]

you have good eyes. these are steps used to reach the upper portions of the mast or the center of the windscreen in the front. I also build these machines for others.

[stealthmonkeytkd]

Hey I'm thinking about buying a used rotorway. Although i don't like the belts going back to the tail rotor. Is it possible to replace these belts with a shaft drive system. thanks!

[champarmstrong]

@stealthmonkeytkd Thanks for the note. Yes you can replace the belts with a solid shaft drive. I considered the same but after training for a week at Rotorway the instructors convinced me that the belts are better because:1) they are a lighter assembly, 2) Some people have a blade strike that damages the tail cone and the sheaft always bends. The cost to repair and replace is very high in comparison. 3) You still have to do inspections pre and post flight inspections and more but no more letter

[MetaView7]

nice bird

is there a website where home builders hangout?

[champarmstrong]

@MetaView7 Thanks very much. I enjoyed building it so much that I now build ships for others. It is a wonderful kit project. with big returns.

[BuckMcLean]

Is it just me or is this happening on a public road?

[TheYozStudios]

@jray0079 yeh, i suppose so cuz in almost all the vids on youtube about this plane have the pilot in the left seat...

[skipsassy1]

Why are they not FAA certified??????????

[stratman250]

@champarmstrong

Belts also absorb vibration and reduce harmonic vibration as well.

[jray0079]

are you supposed to solo this thing from the left side?

[sdrfgvrfgvsfravgdsvS]

great! i've one question: whats the steel tube on the right skid?

[HappySCVResident]

Awesome first flight! Great job.

[stealthmonkeytkd]

@champarmstrong The same thought went through my mind as well. Except the only helicopter instructor i know will not teach on a rotorway with a belt driven tail rotor.