Heli Test Stand

[rpd617]

I made this stand to test run my Knight 50.
Has anyone ever tried anything like this?
If they did, did it work?

Thanks
Rick

http://www.helifreak.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=44890&stc=1&d=1207933811

[franky92]

more pics could help to say if it would work

[DrJustice]

Has anyone ever tried anything like this?
If they did, did it work?

Boeing tried. It didn't work too well:

Chinook ground resonance (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RihcJR0zvfM) :shock:

Seriously though, the issue of ground resonance is a real one. There has been some discussion about it here on HF lately. I think the consensus is that you may not want to spool up a strapped down heli.

Edit: YouTube video embedding didn't work it seems.

DJ
--

[WayneBrown]

use that as a workstand, I'd recommend NOT using it to run up your machine..

[JasonJ]

I use my welding table as a test stand. I use 550 cord run through the skids in a manner that allows a little movement. You don't want to lock down the skids. I only do this for tracking and basic run-up tests, and only because I am alone. It really isn't recommended to even strap a helicopter at all, but sometimes you just gotta do it. Besides, it is safer than trying to do tracking and hovering at eye level by yourself...

[Migs]

Friends:

Why is this a bad idea? I mean, if you stand clear of the heli, at least you can see if there isn't a vibration problem, or a communication problem without a crash.

Newbie here, so bear with me OK? -Migs

[JasonJ]

I think a stand or my welding table is okay for a 450 size electrical heli like mine, but running up a nitro on a stand just seems like a bad idea. You could end up with vibration that could cause a harmonic that could end in a massive failure as the helicopter vibrates itself apart, spraying parts all over you and the room that thing is in. Just don't think it is safe for a nitro, but in the end it is your decision...

[Leaf Blower]

MIGS,
I think the idea is that this concept is an accident waiting to happen. That said, if you want to test for vibration and want to reduce the risk- then pull out your training gear and utilize that. Spool up slowly and watch key points such as the blades, tail, skids, etc for signs of vibration.

As far as tracking, a piece of tracking tape, and hover it up to about eye level and look for the tape to determine which one needs to go which way. Been there, done that!

As far as "standing clear", well, take into consideration that if pieces come flying off, the pieces might have some serious momentum behind them. Where they go- or how far they go -- who will know..

[Migs]

Leaf and Jason:
Yeah, you're right. I should have seen this vibration problem. I'm just so glad I'm at the simulator stage and haven't broken anything yet. I'll make sure to ask before I give flight to any "off the beaten path" ideas. Thanks guys, -Migs

[ericus]

Yeah I made one similar but taller, copied it from an American guys site. It's a bit more involved than yours but on the same lines. O.K. for learning to hover but I guess that's 50 per cent of the game for us anyway. Obviously the main benefit is the saving of money and time by not crashing. Well done mate, great minds think alike eh!

[ericus]

To add to my comments earlier I think it's a good idea but for much smaller electrics. I've used mine for 3 months and my pals have also utilised it with no problems. Like I say we use micro's and mini's, electric. It can still give you the willies at first in a garage space, I know I wouldn't like to try with yours though. Best Wishes mate, at least your thinking the game.

[GilUriel]

I'm with the conservatives ... hhhh - the one that shout SAFTY !!!

Yes, I'm using a similar working banch like this table.
It is the best hight for working on a heli and it is easy to place the heli in any needed position.
But -

DO NOT RUN YOUR HELI ON SUCH STANDS !

The major reason: ---- you are too close to it ------

Guys, Look at the thread of safty and injuries.
Most of them were so stupid. careless moments or careless people.......

Enjoy this hobby but do it safe.
(and realy ... go have a look at this thread. It teaches luts of good stuff !!)