01-06-2026, 03:54 PM
@Graeme Smith Are you saying a turboshaft or a reciprocating powerplant with diesel or Jet-A? For reciprocating engines, that will pose a lot of challenges—especially with power to weight ratio. But, I think you have something in mind there already. I wouldn't want a turbine powerplant, the operational cost goes way too high and I'd feel more comfortable flying a certified reciprocating helicopter than an experimental running on an APU at that price point.
Now, would I want to upgrade my rotorway with all of this? Yes, absolutely. But, the question is—at what cost? If it's going to price up to a used Enstrom 280 or a Robinson R22, well.. That makes the decision a little difficult. The major benefit if it did would be the low cost of operation in comparison.
If these modifications are successful (new tunnel-cover TR driveshaft system, gearboxes, reliable powerplant, 3-bladed rotor design, standard CG limits/better cyclic authority), you will essentially have what everyone wishes Rotorways were. Looks great, keep up the great work Graeme!! You should create a thread in the Rotorway Builders forum section "Documentation/Blog" so you can share your progress on this amazing build!
Now, would I want to upgrade my rotorway with all of this? Yes, absolutely. But, the question is—at what cost? If it's going to price up to a used Enstrom 280 or a Robinson R22, well.. That makes the decision a little difficult. The major benefit if it did would be the low cost of operation in comparison.
If these modifications are successful (new tunnel-cover TR driveshaft system, gearboxes, reliable powerplant, 3-bladed rotor design, standard CG limits/better cyclic authority), you will essentially have what everyone wishes Rotorways were. Looks great, keep up the great work Graeme!! You should create a thread in the Rotorway Builders forum section "Documentation/Blog" so you can share your progress on this amazing build!