Hummingbird Update-The Thunderbolt Engine

[@foesfly3047]

You are such a soldier, to be filming one day before a significant surgery. I have no doubt, you’ll be active again, sooner than average humans 😃 That engine is a beauty to behold 🤩

[@3dogman311]

Every time I view your videos, I learn a thing or two. Thank you..!

[@kentcolgan6139]

Interesting project! Thank you for your many contributions to experimental aviation. Best of luck with your surgery.

[@keithblackmon2199]

Enjoy your videotaped. Good luck with your surgery and hoping you’ll have a speedy recovery.

[@johnfitzpatrick2469]

I pray that the op went well with the Gaul bladder, which produces bile acids into the small intestine, and breaks down fatty acids. No half inch of fat down the edge of a rump for you! Thanks for explaining the special oil requirements for the Lycoming "Thunderbolt" that's a first for me. 🥃🤔💡

[@crufflerdoug]

Really love these vids. Good luck with the docs!!

[@gilkennedy7638]

I alway learn watching your video

[@savagecub]

It just amazes me all the little tweaks that you make that the kit manufacturer hasn't thought to add - like the sump drain and the rotor brake. You think maybe they'll update the assembly manual to reflect some of your good ideas ?

[@Agwings1960]

The main rotor hub design is similar to the Sikorsky S-55 and S-58 machines

[@baselegaviation1614]

The Hummingbird is basically a Sikorsky S-52.

[@akschu1]

What is this snorkel fitting you speak of for draining fuel? I've never seen that and I'm about to mount an IO-540 on my bearhawk.

[@baselegaviation1614]

The snorkel fitting is a one way valve. It allows fuel to drain when the engine is shut down, and has a little ball in it that closes the valve when the engine is running due to the vaccum in the sump. I think the part number from lycoming is 75444.

[@akschu1]

@@baselegaviation1614 appreciate the reply. Do you run a hose from that fitting out through the bottom of the cowl?

[@baselegaviation1614]

@@akschu1 yes.