New Stratus Clutch Problem

[rappyripper]

Went out today to maiden my new Stratus but ran into a problem. The clutch is dragging so much when the engine idles that it almost impossible to hold te head. Even with the starter on it and just cranking the engine, the clutch is already dragging quite a lot.
The clutch runs free and smooth when the engine is not running, the main gear runs smooth and the clutchbell spins nice and true, but when you put the starter on it, it drags a lot. Engine alignment is OK too, the gap is nice and even on all sides.
Took it apart to check and can not find any problem. I am pretty sure the clutch is the problem because when I crank it and hold the head, the clutch bell is already getting warm. Looking at the spacing between the liner and the shoes, it appears to be very small but I am not sure how small or big is OK. With only the clucth stack in hand and putting the starter on it, the clutch already engages.
The clutch is the HD clutch and the heli is brand new.

Anybody got any ideas?? I want to fly it badly....

Thanks,

JB

[DavidH]

The OD of the clutch should be about .015 smaller than the ID of the liner in the clutch bell. You might try sanding the liner some and see if that helps.

David

[rappyripper]

David,

The ID of the liner is around 43.35mm (1.706") while the clutch is 42.8mm (1.685") on the smallest spot and 43.28mm ( 1.703") as largest diameter. Gap is in the smallest spots 0.07mm (0.0027") as it is now.
What surprises me is that when I look down on the clutch, the 'grooves' or the cut-outs that separate the clutch shoes from the center of the clutch, are widening towards the outside of the clutch. Not sure if this is normal or not, this is my first MA heli with a clutch....
Picture explains it with less words.
If this looks normal, then I will start sanding and try it again.

I love the way this heli is put together, taking the complete clutch-stack out in less then 10 min.!

Thanks,

JB

[DavidH]

Clutch looks normal to me.

David