R44 Camera Mounting

[SEL]

Here is a question I was asked and didn't know the answer.

To fit a camera to the nose of a R44, is it factory fitted or can it be fitted later? If able to fit later, who would take it on?
(Thinking along the lines of G-PIXX and G-OITV)

SEL

[Practice Auto 3,2,1]

98% sure that you wouldn't be able to retro fit the camera and gear to any 'standard' R44 (much like you cant put floats on a non float machine). The amount of wiring, box's of things etc that is in the ENG's is amazing.

Might be able to have it incorporated at a 2200Hr O/H if done at RHC, but I wouldn't have thought so!

[JimBall]

No. The ENG is manufactured with a special "hard nose". There is too much soft material in a standard R44 nose for a gyro mount. It cannot be done at rebuild either.

There are some STC sidemounts around in the US - but they are very restricted field of view. See here (http://www.floridasuncoasthelicopters.com/gallery.asp)

[SEL]

Yep, you're both right. Had a reply from Robinson saying the same thing.

Thanks

[farmpilot]

But the specs for the HD EHG ship will be out in two weeks time and delivery August/September............

[Lord Mount]

There's one ready made for you on ebay.


http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2001-R44-Police-Helicopter_W0QQitemZ150100098734QQcategoryZ63680QQssPageName ZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


LM

[JimBall]

Oh - really nice. Not. NTSC USA analog video with a VHS recorder. Just about up to You Tube standard - but not even digital.

[farmpilot]

That's what I was thinking! I liked the idea of slaving the light to the camera though...........

[JimBall]

It's the power of the 7X zoom that wowed me. Couldn't spot the cup 'n' donut holders.....oops - just noticed that Lord Mount's profile says he is a police officer.

[farmpilot]

Don't tell 'em your name Pike......

[Lord Mount]

Don't hold it against me.

Gotta pay for the flying somehow.

LM