Sent: Tuesday, October 21, 2003 10:59
AM
Subject: [FlyRotary] Re: Sigh! Another
engine out Glide!
Yep, I read that too.
However, the point is we want more on
board, not scare them away, right?
Need to somehow balance the
negative with the positive.
On the other hand, the fewer using the
rotary the more spare engines will still be available. So scare away!
Finn
Well, Finn, I see it a bit different at this point
in time. This is still the "experimentation" phase with a lot of
unknowns. I have had a few folks tell me that my
experiences helped decide them against the rotary. That is great as
far as I am concerned. People need to know there are not
inconsiderable risks associated with this hobby. You can get injured
or worst!
I would much rather have somebody fully aware
of the risks when they make that decision. If they then feel
uncomfortable with that level of risk then they are smart to stay away in my
opinion. However, not being that smart myself, I continue despite a
few incidents. The negative is they happened, the positive is nothing
happened!
I try to minimize my risk as best I can.
But the only way I see to eliminate it is to stop flying period. Then
I'd probably slip in the shower {:>)
Hey, look at the bright side, I seemed to
attract over my quota of mishaps/incidents perhaps that means someone else
is getting a free ride (not mentioning any names you know
{:>))
I understand your point, Finn, but just don't
necessarily feel that we should keep quit about these incidents - I know you
didn't mean that anyhow.
See you at Shady Bend
Ed
I agree, Ed.....as a side note, regarding your
engine out glide, I have a confession to make as well. After
completing my Lycoming powered Long EZ, with about 20 hours total time on
the aircraft, I heard a loud vibrating sound coming from either the airframe
or the engine compartment. A quick check of oil temp and pressure looked OK,
but I had already pointed the nose toward the nearest airport, about 2 miles
away. Descending from 8000 feet, I announced my precautionary landing
intentions, pulled the mixture at 7000 feet, and glided in uneventfully to
the airstrip, where I also was met by a few curious pilots or fellow flying
enthusiasts, who helped pull the aircraft to the hangar. Turned out
that the new vinyl tape that I adheredd to the bottom of the wing which
covered the wing bolt access holes started coming off, and vibrated much
like a playing card in a bicycle spoke, like we did as kids. Of course,
through the hollow spar, it really echoed and resonated loud. We all
had a good laugh, and all agreed that it is far better to land and check out
the insignificant than to try to continue on with the significant. Thanks
for sharing your experience. Paul Conner, 13b powered SQ2000 almost
finished.