The Airframe Returns:

It was certainly enjoyable to bolt my nice, clean, painted airframe together; knowing that we had previously fitted and drilled all the parts. All nuts that were permanent were torque sealed at the time, so that any future movement could be monitored. I should mention that, as this is an American helicopter; all measures are in Imperial units. Suits me fine, as I grew up under that system and can tell the difference between a 3/16" and 1/4" drill much more easily than I can with millimetres !

The rotor head is installed at this time and then we start the fitting of body panels. All of them are curved but there is a logical sequence to it. We start with the seat back, then move forward via the floor, tub, windscreen, door posts; moving back to the doghouse on top and the rear panels. Some panels need cutting and all is held together with cleco bolts. There is some sanding and filling to get the shape right and Kevin's workshop nouse is always at the fore. He uses cotton flox in the epoxy for anything that needs strength and automotive type body filler for simpler jobs, as it dries quickly and is easy to sand. During this process, the tail boom is added and the whole machine starts to look like a helicopter.

Any rare mistake Kevin should make is referred to as "an error of judgment" but you will see from the photos that my numerous errors are not so kindly described !!
It was certainly rewarding to sit in what resembled the shell of a helicopter, in the knowledge that one day soon, it would evolve into the real thing. Then we took it all apart again, to begin installing the machinery.

During this building period, I have started my flying training with Helibiz, here at the local airport. I don't have a helicopter licence, so am enjoying learning to fly the Robinson R22 Beta 2 ; similar to the Rotorway but not as forgiving in many ways, which makes it an ideal trainer. It's a lot of fun learning to fly -- a helicopter is just so much more exciting than the fixed wing aircraft at my aero club. A helicopter can do a bewildering number of manoeuvres -- quick stops, hovering in tailwind and all sorts of things that are impossible for fixed wing aircraft.

So -- installing the engine comes next !

The Airframe returns.

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Section 2
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Section 5