For a few weeks I have been 'occassionally' having vibrations at high speeds, and high power settings.
Sequence of events :
1. Plane flew great all winter.
2. Installed wheel pants when available - picked up speed as indicated. No problems.
3. Weather got warmer ( KEY NOTE ) 'sometimes' would have a vibration in the front, but not always, at higher speeds and RPM's.
This morning, I finally figured out what it was. ( warm today again ) The front wheel bearings are sealed, and in warmer weather ( and wheel pants ), the front wheel was spinning up to high enough RPM's it caused vibration because I had not gotten as good a balance as I needed while I was still building. It was cool then, and the wheel would not self-center the heavy spot on the bottom due to more rolling resistance in the bearings. With the warm weather today, the wheel would let me know exactly where it was heavier. I put on enough weights so I can not find a 'heavy' spot now, and the vibration went away. The tire is still spinning a bunch likely when flying, but not causing vibration. Sorry - long story, but it might save someone else a 'mystery' someday.
John Bender
Sequence of events :
1. Plane flew great all winter.
2. Installed wheel pants when available - picked up speed as indicated. No problems.
3. Weather got warmer ( KEY NOTE ) 'sometimes' would have a vibration in the front, but not always, at higher speeds and RPM's.
This morning, I finally figured out what it was. ( warm today again ) The front wheel bearings are sealed, and in warmer weather ( and wheel pants ), the front wheel was spinning up to high enough RPM's it caused vibration because I had not gotten as good a balance as I needed while I was still building. It was cool then, and the wheel would not self-center the heavy spot on the bottom due to more rolling resistance in the bearings. With the warm weather today, the wheel would let me know exactly where it was heavier. I put on enough weights so I can not find a 'heavy' spot now, and the vibration went away. The tire is still spinning a bunch likely when flying, but not causing vibration. Sorry - long story, but it might save someone else a 'mystery' someday.
John Bender
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