Binding clutch
 

Hi,
I had a minor bump with my Powercat (PHT 3 mechanics) a couple of weeks ago when it toppled over onto its side while it was sitting on the ground. Unfortunatly the turbine was running at full speed, I think I stupidly caught the TX stick with my jacket sleeve when I was about to make an adjustment, doh! I managed to turn the turbine off quickly but now the clutch seems to binding slightly, just enough to make the blades turn when at idle speed. I can't see any damage when I look into the clutch. Do you think I need to remove the clutch for inspection and how easy is this to do?

I posted this on another site but I have not had a any replies from there.

Richard

RE: Binding clutch
 

Your clutch ears may be bent out engaging a bit. measure the diameter of the clutch and bell and see how much clearance you have.

RE: Binding clutch
 

Hi,

Thanks for the quick reply. Could a piece of the clutch liner come off when the blades were turning when the heli toppled and stopping the blades turning or should I say smashing the blades to pieces?:)

RE: Binding clutch
 

Not usually, usually since the head stops and the motor still turns the clutch slips inside the bell burning up the lining. When this happens theres extra space for the clutch ears to spead out and bind when it normally wouldn't.... Since you have a pretty high dollar machine I would say replave the clutch and lining or the whole bell.

RE: Binding clutch
 

I have just tried turning the bell and holding the clutch still with a metal rod and the bell turns quite freely, no binding. There would appear to be 0.5mm clearance around the clutch. I will contact jetcat for further advice.

Thanks for your help Evan-RCU

Richard:D