How to Build Your Own Bensen Gyrocopter with Plans PDF
How to Build Your Own Bensen Gyrocopter with Plans PDF
If you are looking for a fun and affordable way to experience the thrill of flying, you might want to consider building your own Bensen gyrocopter. A gyrocopter, also known as a gyroplane or autogyro, is a type of rotorcraft that uses an unpowered rotor to create lift and a powered propeller to provide thrust. Unlike a helicopter, the rotor of a gyrocopter is not driven by an engine, but rather by the airflow that results from the forward motion of the aircraft.
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One of the most popular and simple designs for a homebuilt gyrocopter is the Bensen B-8, created by Igor Bensen in 1954. The Bensen B-8 is a single-seat, open-frame gyrocopter that can be built from a kit or from plans. The original version of the B-8 was a gyroglider, which means it had no engine and relied on a tow vehicle to get airborne. The movement of air through the rotor disc caused the blades to autorotate, which provided lift. Later versions of the B-8 were powered by various engines, such as a flat four McCulloch 4318 or a 1600cc Volkswagen engine.
The Bensen B-8 has a lightweight tubular aluminum structure with a fin and rudder in plywood. The rotor blade is made of laminated plywood and is tilted by a stick to control the direction of flight. The Bensen B-8 has a length of 3.45m, a rotor diameter of 6.10m, a height of 1.9m, and an empty weight of 58kg. The Bensen B-8 can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h and has a range of about 240 km.
If you want to build your own Bensen gyrocopter, you will need to get the plans PDF from a reliable source. One such source is Build A Gyrocopter, which offers the original Bensen B-8 gyroglider plans for only $1.95. These plans include detailed drawings, specifications, instructions, and photos to help you construct your own gyrocopter. You will also need to acquire the necessary materials, tools, and skills to complete the project.
Building your own Bensen gyrocopter can be a rewarding and exciting hobby that will allow you to enjoy the freedom and adventure of flying. However, you should also be aware of the risks and challenges involved in this endeavor. You will need to follow the plans carefully and adhere to the safety standards and regulations for your country. You will also need to obtain proper training and licensing before you can fly your gyrocopter legally and safely.
If you are ready to take on this challenge, you can start by downloading the bensen gyrocopter plans pdf from Build A Gyrocopter today and begin your journey into the world of gyrocopters.
How to Fly Your Bensen Gyrocopter
Once you have built your Bensen gyrocopter, you will need to learn how to fly it. Flying a gyrocopter is different from flying a fixed-wing aircraft or a helicopter, and requires specific skills and knowledge. Here are some basic steps to help you get started:
Before you fly, you should always perform a pre-flight inspection of your gyrocopter, checking the condition and functionality of the rotor, engine, propeller, controls, instruments, fuel, and other components. You should also check the weather conditions and plan your flight accordingly.
To start the engine, you will need to manually spin the rotor blades until they reach a certain speed. This can be done by hand or by using a rope or a starter motor. Once the rotor is spinning fast enough, you can turn on the ignition and throttle up the engine.
To take off, you will need to accelerate along a runway or a flat surface until you reach the lift-off speed. This will depend on the weight and design of your gyrocopter, but it is usually around 60 km/h. As you gain speed, you will feel the rotor lifting the gyrocopter off the ground. You can then use the stick to control the pitch and roll of the gyrocopter, and the rudder pedals to control the yaw.
To fly, you will need to maintain a constant speed and altitude by adjusting the throttle and the stick. You can also use the trim lever to reduce the pressure on the stick. You should avoid flying too fast or too slow, as this can cause instability or loss of control. You should also avoid flying too high or too low, as this can expose you to hazards such as power lines, trees, buildings, or birds.
To land, you will need to reduce the throttle and approach the landing area at a shallow angle. You should aim for a smooth touchdown at a low speed. You should also be prepared to use the brakes and steer the gyrocopter to a stop.
Flying a gyrocopter can be a lot of fun and exhilaration, but it also requires practice and caution. You should always follow the rules and regulations for your country and airspace, and respect the rights and safety of other pilots and people on the ground. You should also seek professional guidance and training from a qualified instructor before you attempt to fly your gyrocopter solo. 0efd9a6b88