More Robinson R22 Pilot Notes, Hints & Tips

Power settings

R22B with 0-320-B2C engine                                                                               

Lycoming specs:

Engine max power (15^oC/1013/S-level 29 MAP) 160 BHP at 2700 RPM (105% on R22B Tacho)

R22B - 5 minute take off rating (15^oC/1013/S-level 25.2 MAP)  131 BHP at 2652 RPM (104%)

R22B - Max. Continuous power  (15^oC/1013/S-level 24.2 MAP)  124 BHP at 2652 RPM (104%)

The 5-minute max takeoff MAP for your local environment is determined from the placard in cockpit or Flight manual. NB: (This saves DA calculations)

Max continuous power is determined by subtracting 1 in. MAP from Take off Power (use chart)

The yellow arc on the MAP gauge between 21.0 & 25.2 is a reminder to check your MAP/DA placard. (Meaning that in certain conditions (cold OAT) you may not be able to pull 21 in or more MAP.)

Handy Rule of thumbs:

1)- For every 1in. MAP reduction @104% you loose approx. 7 BHP

2)- For every 1000-ft. climb or descent your engine looses or gains 1in. of MAP

3)- Coastal flying SE Qld, Australia, is usually 22ins.- 23ins. MAP (2 crew + 70 litres fuel load)

4)- FLAT PITCH POWER CHECK:  see TC's notes.  Use a trend monitor such as the following:  (First start of the day, cold engine - same pressure altitude) 

Carb heat on for start up                                                                      

Start up as per checklist                                                    

Warm engine at req. temp. for Mag. (check only with Carb heat  off)                                                                 

Engine at 104% governor. on. (consistent ERPM)  - Collective still full down                                                             

Read MAP (note it down to check for future Reading should be 12.5 - 13.5 ins. MAP @ std day/S/L 

If the MAP reading goes higher, then there is an indication of 'drag' in the system & extra HP is being required to drive the system. Faults could be in the engine, MR/TR blade profile, drive system, or associated systems etc. (remember that reading may trend lower with altitude)

Recommended cruise speed:

83 Kts using up to max continuous power (usually weight dependant) - see TC's Note - "parameters" -for more info on cruise speeds.

(If unable to obtain 83 Kts with max cont power, reduce airspeed – not power.)

Carburettor Ice:

Important: Be familiar with Robinson Safety Note SN-25.

Cold climate start:

For safety and also to lessen engine wear due to slow circulating cold oil, the following start up procedure is also recommended:

First start of the day or moist conditions (High Humidity) & OAT 20⁰C or lower

 Select Carb heat On after you select mixture full rich. 

Retain Carb Heat On until the engine warms up sufficiently and you run up to check mags at 100%.

Select carb heat OFF before proceeding with magneto check.

(On first start or cold oil conditions, the heated intake air flowing thru the intake tubes IN the oil sump help bring the oil temperature up to operating temperature quicker. The R22 Carb heat air is filtered)