Mike Parker- Bountiful, Utah

[Cobra]

Hi all,
I found this fourm through a web search and really like what Ive seen so far. Ive always been interested in aircraft and aerospace technology, but because of work and the astronomical expenses involved, it has seemed out of reach. I recently decided to take early retirement from my old job, as an engineer at a big aerospace company (Alliant Techsystems/Hercules/Thiokol), to trade stocks. The new job has provided considerable disposable income and more importantly, time to play (highly recommended, btw), so the dream is now possible. Ive been fond of helicopters since Vietnam; Autogyros have had a particular interest/curiosity for me- Ive always wondered why they have not become more popular.

About a month ago, I went to a Sparrowhawk demo at a local airport- Ive known of GBA for years (stock holder). They mentioned the new Sport Pilot program at the demo and got me hooked. Since that time, i've researched the market, as time permits, to learn the basics and to pick my next project. Id like to visit the GBA factory soon, its local.

My particular needs/desires suggest at least 2 enclosed seats, full load of around 600 lbs (2 people + fuel), near jump takeoff capability (I have a cabin near Park City with a big semi private meadow), and Id like to cruise closer to 120 than 80 mph. I realize that these capabilities are beyond the limits of ELSA but Id like to pick a kit plane that can be expanded later after I upgrade to Private Pilot.

What ive found so far: I really like the Cartercopter work, but their kits are not available and probably wont be for quite a while, if ever, and the kit will never fit into the ELSA mold for Sport Pilot. It looks like the Sparrowhawk is the best alternatate, but it is basically a modified RAF2000 of, which I have BIG reservations about. The design is as aerodynamic as a brick/rock, it looks flimsy and weak. The RAF seens to have a lot of design flaws, both mechanical and aerodynamic. that the company refuses to address.

GBA mentioned that they are developing an articulating rotor head during the demo. I wonder how difficult it would be to add a pair of short wings to the Sparowhawk, to provide lift and unload the rotor (reduce drag) at higher speeds. Anyone tried it yet? The engine needs turbocharging to make rated power at higher altitudes. I'll need to figure a way to upgrade the prerotor to jump start. The engine is underpowered at this altitude (7000-8000 ft.). It should be easy to add composite aerodynamic skirts around the engine, suspension, and mast.

BTW, my webname comes from my last project, a twin turbo powered '95 Mustang Cobra @ 450 hp/500 ft/lb torque. Im currently rebuilding an Eclipse GSX (turbocharged all wheel drive). The Mitsi motor ( the Japanese "Hemi") is probably a better choice for turbocharged power than Subi-. 2Liter 4cyl, 200 HP stock and capable of more than 400 when appropriatly built with aftermarket parts and bigger turbo.

[Falcon]

Mike,

Hello, I live in Clearfield and I am taking instruction from Air Gyro in Spanishfork. I have 6 hours now and I am shooting for my Sport pilot as well. If you haven't been up to take a demo flight yet I would highly recomend it. After my first flight I was hooked. There is a web page at lettherebeflight.com tell them Gary sent you. Good luck with your project.

Gary

[Cobra]

Gary,
I'm planning to start a SH kit next summer/fall and will probably start the training in spring if all goes well. I talked with the Spanish Fork guys at the demo in NSL- they are the ones that sold me on the whole idea.

Are you building a kit or know others in the area- Id love to see a work in progress, maybe even lend a hand.

MP

[barnstorm2]

Mike,

Welcome!

I am a fan of hemi's. I had a Dodge Superbee back in 'the day'.

[barnstorm2]

MP,

cool website!

[Falcon]

Mike,

I have a single place Gyro, it is enclosed and called the Falcon. You can see pics of it if you look at my post under single place designs. I also located a new company looking for investors for the Sparrowhawk at the Morgan county airport in Mountain Green. Look in the Big Nickel for there ad.

Gary