Wren 44 Gold Helicopter Owners Manual
Page 19
sudden movement rearwards will at least be limited by the tail rotor. The area sideways on
and to the front of the helicopter is potentially the most dangerous area due to the rotating
rotor and you will have little notice if the heli suddenly starts to tilt towards you. In certain
light a turning rotor blade can become almost invisible – add some colour to the rotor tips if
you notice this with yours.
Do not
start the engine in a pit area as safety distances are difficult to maintain and passers-
by can appear without warning and once the rotors are turning fast you cannot stop them
quickly if you needed to. (In a recent incident, a dog ran up to a heli in the pit area almost at
take-off rpms – tried to sniff the end of fast spinning tail rotor…)
The helicopter should be placed at the take-off point where the start and take-off may be
done safely, away from onlookers where you are between the heli and any onlookers. This
way you as the operator have plenty of space to stand well clear and can step in any
direction without falling over someone. Never allow someone to hold onto the model while
you start the engine, always stand well clear.
Accordingly, NEVER ever attempt to start or run an installed heli engine in an enclosed
space such as a garage, workshop or small back yard. Quite apart from the exhaust
dangers, it is not possible or safe to attempt to restrain the heli safely and if anything
happens you may not be able to get clear quickly enough.
Keep any helper close to you and brief them fully on their duties before starting the engine.
One helper should carry out the role of fireman and ideally as caller, to watch for other
models or flying activity beyond your vision. Ensure they are aware of what to do in event of
emergency and where to position the extinguisher if required. Ensure they are briefed NOT
to attempt to approach the heli if the rotors are turning, whatever the incident.
Never attempt to alter the starting characteristics of the engine by spraying ignition agents
into the intake, as used for gasoline and diesel engines. A dangerous fire and flashback may
result.
Please note, the exhaust of a gas turbine has a pleasing smell to enthusiasts of gas turbines
but others may find it offensive. Please have consideration for others when running your
engine in their proximity.
