Rajun151
Senior Heliman
Location: Houston, Texas
| I have a JR Z230 I recently purchased used and during inspection I came across a loose (?) pinion gear. What I mean by that is that there is a fair amount of "play" between the pinion and the main drive gear.
I don't recall seeing this on any other helicopters that I have owned so it became suspect pretty quick.
I just removed the starter bearing block so I could get a better look. Once I removed it I can see the start shaft is not snug in the pinion gear assembly. There is a pretty good sized gap. I'm not all that well versed in heli building and design but to me it looks like there should be some sort of spacer or ball bearing in there.
I realize that the top of the pinion gear inserts into the lower bearing in the start shaft bearing block, but even when it was, there was quite a bit of play.
Should I be concerned? Is there something that I am missing on the plans or right under my nose? Both of the bearings on the starter block look and feel to be in good condition.
Any info will be appreciated!
Thanks,
David |
