I`ve recently returned to the ranks of helicopter maintenance, and just had my first go at an AS350. The job was the overvoltage mod. I can`t say I`m impressed with the AStar. Some things are good, such as the easy access to the belly, but the manuals and service bulletins are a joke. The pedestal and switches aren`t too swift either. Just my two cents worth, it is a pretty machine, but not the easiest to fix (aside from the big bucks I spent on metric tools). How would you rate it compared to other types?
The joys of the Astar.
- Thread starter avt007
- Start date
ah yes, the great FADEC system and those nice guages. Everyones got them since the helicopter manufacturers buy them from someone else. And I didn''t think this post started as a 407 versus A-Star brawl did it?
The design of the A-Star makes it an open, easy concept for access to maintenance. And since they do require more maintenance, that''s a wise decision. An engine can be removed fairly quickly, removing all cowlings give you ample space and ample light to do whatever you need to do. Head maintenance can be performed on the side of the road doing a piece by piece removal and installation, There are alot of great idea''s incorporated into the aircraft, even from it''s first day. As technology increases, expect even greater advances from every manufacturer. As for the curcuit breaker/switches, yes they suck, but there is something can be done about that now and it''s a good modification.
The design of the A-Star makes it an open, easy concept for access to maintenance. And since they do require more maintenance, that''s a wise decision. An engine can be removed fairly quickly, removing all cowlings give you ample space and ample light to do whatever you need to do. Head maintenance can be performed on the side of the road doing a piece by piece removal and installation, There are alot of great idea''s incorporated into the aircraft, even from it''s first day. As technology increases, expect even greater advances from every manufacturer. As for the curcuit breaker/switches, yes they suck, but there is something can be done about that now and it''s a good modification.
I didnt recall saying anything bad about the Astar. My time spent on it was enjoyable and yes roomy. I didnt even say
what I enjoyed more. Both nice aircraft both have there positives and negatives,
Both had there problems when first brought on line. I would fly either one. Now if I was running my own company. I do know what side I would take.
what I enjoyed more. Both nice aircraft both have there positives and negatives,
Both had there problems when first brought on line. I would fly either one. Now if I was running my own company. I do know what side I would take.
I have some time on the 407 with recon and Dunkly lumber. The fadec is a great thing and the gauges witch I never really thought about. The thing I didn''t like was the interiors being ruined from freight being hauled inside and the lack of space.
The astar is a better bush machine in my books, something Bell dosen''t seem to worry about anymore. They just build machines to haul business people to roof tops is my guess.
We all know the 214 rules though
The astar is a better bush machine in my books, something Bell dosen''t seem to worry about anymore. They just build machines to haul business people to roof tops is my guess.
We all know the 214 rules though
The flat floor and the oodles of baggage space do make the A-Star attractive to many customers. Now don''t even think of bringing up the basket on the side, in the ''other forum'',(which shall remain nameless) this was already discussed and baskets don''t add much asthetic appeal on anything. I also, as a passenger, find the open cockpit concept far more appealing than the boxed in feel in the back of a Bell, and heaven forbid the need to be the poor suckers riding backwards.
Yes, the astar has room in it. yes, it has a big flat floor (Main structure and toughest part of the astar in which you sit on top of). Many customers have not even seen a 407 up close but, once they see its performance and ability love it.
Im flying astars right now and have 407 time and would take the 407 anyday.
Im flying astars right now and have 407 time and would take the 407 anyday.
KYLE: I do believe that given the recent expulsion of other individuals from advertizing on this web site, I do believe that MagSeal should also be excluded or asked to quit his never ending trival on behalf of Eurocopter. Tony Brown of EC is quite capable of selling thier machine.
The only thing that EC hasn''t come up with is getting a free EC in cracker jacks.
I think that any pilot flying today in any make of machine, is damn lucky.
The only thing that EC hasn''t come up with is getting a free EC in cracker jacks.
I think that any pilot flying today in any make of machine, is damn lucky.
Blackmac. You said it perfectly. Any pilot flying today no matter what it is, Is lucky to be where they are.
I have taken out my first comments in this topic due to the soft spor it hit in some.
The battle between the two machines Iam sure will continue for sometime.
I have taken out my first comments in this topic due to the soft spor it hit in some.
Picyourpart; I wouldn''t have a problem with MagSeal''s comments if they were not so biased in favour of EC.
For your information and anybody else''s the best helicopter is the one you are making money with, bar none.
Having worked in every capacity in the helicopter industry that you would only dream of, I can spot a person with a one track mind a mile away.
If MagSeal was working for a company and not a manufacturer, I would pobably have more time for his one sided opinion.
For your information and anybody else''s the best helicopter is the one you are making money with, bar none.
Having worked in every capacity in the helicopter industry that you would only dream of, I can spot a person with a one track mind a mile away.
If MagSeal was working for a company and not a manufacturer, I would pobably have more time for his one sided opinion.
