8. Common Issues
1. My engine quit in flight
The engine will unexpectedly quit in flight for two main reasons. First, if
you are pulling too much power and keeping manifold pressure above
red-line, the engine can fail and quit. Secondly, if you run out of fuel
(check your fuel gauge), the engine will quit.
Note that holding the engine in the yellow for excessive periods of time
may also lead to engine failure. Keep an eye on your oil and cylinder
head temperatures.
2. I was descending and suddenly fell out of the sky
You most likely encountered vortex ring state. VRS occurs when you
sink into the downwash of your own turbulence. To avoid this, always
keep some forward airspeed in descents. You can break out of VRS if
you have enough altitude by going either forwards or sideways, and
lowering the collective.
3. I can’t turn left
The B-47 is a piston helicopter with limited overall power and tail
authority. If you pull too much collective power, you won’t be able to
turn left at all (and may even slowly turn to the right despite best
efforts). Lower your collective a bit, don’t try to turn climb straight up.
You will be able to turn left in a hover no problem.
