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Recent VR Forum Posts
Friday, August 1, 2025

I ran across an advert that stated a "TRGB Overhaul" was required on a 269A project. The only thing I can find that's a direct match is ""Turbine Reduction Gear Box", which makes me think they might have their terminology mixed up with something else (or I could just be a noob). I assume this is the transfer clutch for the rotor system, right? (picture of the clutch system condition included; appears to be in rough shape) How much does something like that cost (and, yes, I'm asking a very nebulous question with lots of variables that could add anywhere from two to five digits to the price)? TT on the airframe is over 2000 hours, but the engine low time since overhaul.

Sunday, July 27, 2025

Talk to your fire department first. Have them come out and check it out. They are always the ones that set up the LZ's. You can have the greatest LZ in the world, but if they need to be aware of it first. The fire department may then be able to go to nearby EMS bases to discuss the suitability. An area in the middle with gravel would be nice. Forget about a fence.

Friday, July 25, 2025

Do you have an EMS station near by? I would suggest contacting them for advice specific to your region. I wouldn't worry about radio contact, EMS/fire/law enforcement and other agencies involved will almost always have established communication, often encrypted. I won't land in an LZ without some contact with ground, even if it's only somebody trained to give useful, intelligible hand signals. Some suggestions from my experience flying HEMS for 17 years: Flat, level and open area 100 feet by 100 feet, no stumps or rocks higher than your ankles in the center. Some operators allow smaller, but 100 foot square area is a good ball park. A paved pad isn't generally necessary, at least where I've operated. While a 20 x 20 foot paved pad and access makes everything easier, firm ground works as long as it stands up to weather. Allowing the ambulance to get as close as possible to the pad is enormously helpful. 300+ pound patients are not exceptional, add all the medical gear often hooked up to the patient and it's a challenge in the best of circumstances. The medical types will want to be able to maintain some level of care between the bus and the bird, paved access makes that easier. If at all possible, I (pilot) would walk the LZ with a strong flashlight searching for problems I couldn't see from the cockpit. A fence to keep the "lookie lous" out of the mix is really really helpful. Your neighbors need to be in on the plan as well.

Monday, July 21, 2025

Northern Maine, Very Rural area, no 24-hour medical facility for lifelong Epileptic. I want to lay down something Life Flight can use. At least in Summer/Fall. How much space to keep clear and how big the pad needs to be? NOT a heliport by any stretch. Also, what type of radio would I use if they need to contact us?

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Hello I am looking to purchase a part 133, 135 and 137 certified company I currently have aircraft’s but would rather avoid the hassle of applying for a new one. Does anyone know someone selling?

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Hey Gideon I was hoping you could email me your essay if possible. Eliknight24@gmail.com thank you

Monday, July 14, 2025

Army aviation is being impacted across the board. I’m sure you’ve graduated by now, but hopefully you were able to get some legitimate answers. I know young pilots fresh out of flight school or ones that have less than 500 hours under their belt, are being asked to find something else to do within the Army. It’s an absolute mess right now. You can always look into the national guard to become a pilot, but you’re limited to the state you’re in. If you’re already in the Army, find a career counselor for future guidance. They’re being briefed on aviation changes. Good luck!

Sunday, July 13, 2025

Done.

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Hi Spike! new on this awesome forum! Could you please send me the article to my email? brunoberretta96@gmail.com I'm new on the line! and i'm looking forward for all the info i can get haha. Greetings from Argentina!

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Hi Judas, Don't overthink it. The idling engine is still providing input to the transmission by sort of "loosening up" the N2 turbine wheels and making the freewheel unit turn a bit easier. Just a bit, and if it was not present then the descent would be a bit different. Shaun was a great source of info, had a lovely lunch with him back in 2003, and he is a great loss to the industry. His book Cyclic and Collective is also worth having, peppered with humorous anecdotes.