BarnFind Bensen

[Gyro28866]

In regards to the fuel and primer fuel.
All of us that are flying the Mighty Mac use only 100LL Aviation fuel. I mix 16oz of quality 2 stoke oil in 5 gallons of 100LL, however, I now use 14 oz of Blue Marbles full synthetic in 5 gallons and my CHT run about 25*f cooler.
( with the primer fuel smelling funky, I am willing to bet he used automotive fuel)

 

[Eric S]

I have stared at those photos of the non-standard controls and I don't understand how they work. I see how it works in roll, but how does it change the pitch? It looks like moving the stick fore and aft would just move the rear control horns horizontally which wouldn't raise and lower the control rods like a normal scissor configuration?!?

 

[JEFF TIPTON]

There was a system called the walking stick. Think of it this way. The rod that allows the stick to fore and aft is forward of the tubes going up to the head. This allows as the stick is pulled back the tube connections lever down supplying a down control motion to the tubes which results in the head rotating aft.

 

[Gyro28866]

Eric:
The fore and aft movement on the stick is really a bit more up and down, the control rods are attached behind the pivot point and there fore are pushed up and down together.
This is a one off design to the Bensen Pump handle/stick as I see it.

 

[tecknomage]

Where is this critter at? sounds like a winter project..

 

[Gravityisnotmyfriend]

Where is this critter at? sounds like a winter project..

It's in southern WI - between Platteville and Lancaster.

 

[Charles Mason]

Joined up here to try do learn more about Bensen Gyros. I found one that's been sitting in a barn for 10 years. The owner passed away and his widow would like to get rid of it. I did some searching to see what a fair price might be, but I'm thinking I'd be better off avoiding it all together.

It's got the Mac 4318 engine, which seems to be the least reliable option for a powerplant. That appears to be the biggest downfall. Everything else looks complete and in good shape. It's got a pre-rotor and hand operated rotor brake. Hydraulic disc brakes on the main gear, seat tank (not sure on size) and there is no N-Number, so I'm assuming the previous owner flew it as an ultralight.

I am a fixed wing private pilot, but have no experience with full scale gyros. I had a hard enough time finding a tail dragger instructor - no idea if there are any gyro instructors in central WI. I'd obviously need some seat time in a two place gyro to even consider flying this one.

So, I guess my questions are - is there anything specific I need to look at that would be a deal breaker to buy this? I see a lot of people are in the market for blades on this site - is that something that need to be replaced periodically? Would sitting in a barn for 10 years mean the blades are untrustworthy?

Would I be better off parting it out - rather than going through it and making it airworthy?

Any idea on what a good price would be?

Am I better off to just walk away?!

I'll see if I can post pics up shortly.

I'm interested in purchasing it. 860-510-3830
thanks Chuck