RCU Forums - View Single Post - CHRISTEN EAGLE ENGINE AND FIREWALL EXPLODED
Old 08-02-2007 | 06:44 PM
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Tired Old Man
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Default RE: CHRISTEN EAGLE ENGINE AND FIREWALL EXPLODED

The problem with this is that the same type of damage could easily happen on a good ground loop. Say it landed too fast, wing still generating lift, improper control input, plane lifts back up and stalls to left, pivots on left wing tip, bashes nose into the tarmac, sets down hard on wheels, and drops front of the plane with the engine.

The manufacturer has to see that as well, then decide which cause could be true, then determine if the engine used met the size noted with the models instructions. If there's any room for error, then the customer will not prevail.

Lesson here is to periodically inspect the aircraft looking for stress indicators at various critical locations. Especially so when using a gas engine on a plane originally designed to accept a glow engine. Should there be indications of impending failure take the steps necessary to structurally reinforce those areas where failure is likely, and to provide additional spport on a new plane designed for glow that's being equipped with a gasser.

None of the above is intended to argue what happed to the plane, but indicates a viewpoint that I'm reasonably certain will be inferred by the manufacturer when presented with a claim and photographic evidence..