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Date: Wed, 16 May 2007 19:30:59 -0600
From: Bob White <rlwhite@comcast.net>
To: "Rotary motors in aircraft" <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>
Subject: BD-4 Status
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Hi Ed,

I've made a decision, but I'm having a hard time announcing it.  I
guess I might as well make it official.  There was extensive damage to
the airframe all the way back to the baggage compartment.  Because of
the way BD-4's are constructed, I have no doubt that it is repairable.
It would require removing most all of the skins, replacing the aluminum
angles with new ones, replacing the gear box, engine mount, radiator
oil cooler, exhaust system, windshield, and some of the side windows.
Some of those things were going to be replaced anyway. In particular,
the radiator, engine mount and exhaust system.  There is some
possibility that the wing torqued the top of the cabins slightly, so
that would have to be checked.  The wing tips were damaged and one
corner of the stabilator was bent.

However, after considering what it will require in time and money, I
have decided that I really can't afford to continue.  I'm going to sell
the FWF less the damaged parts, radios, and some of the prefabricated
components.  The airframe will be scrapped for liability reasons.

I looked at a partnership in a certified airplane, renting, buying
another kit to finish, and even buying another flying BD-4.  At the end
of the day, it all add up to more expense than is comfortable.

I'm still a BD-4 enthusiast and a rotary engine enthusiast.  I plan to
continue making cables for Tracy's hardware and hang around in the
rotary and BD-4 email lists.  

One of the things I consider most unfortunate is that I won't be able
to finish the EWP testing.  I was having pretty good results
considering the poor location of my oil cooler.  On cool (50F) days, in
flight cruise temps were OK, and I could get to pattern altitude at
full power and keep the oil below 220F.  It was obvious that I needed
some improvements.  I only did one full power speed test with the Warp
Drive prop.  I got to 155 mph indicated at 7500 ft and 50F OAT.  The
speed was pretty stable but temps were still climbing. When the Oil got
to 210F I pulled the power back.  I'm going to miss it. 

Bob W.

On Wed, 16 May 2007 18:55:22 -0400
"Ed Anderson" <eanderson@carolina.rr.com> wrote:

> Speaking of your BD-4, what is the prognosis - repairable?  Worth repairing? 
> Sounds like you have it apart.
> 
> Ed

-- 
N93BD - Rotary Powered BD-4 - http://www.bob-white.com
3.8 Hours Total Time and holding
Cables for your rotary installation - http://www.roblinphoto.com/shop/