CUSTOM DIFFERENTIAL – August 16, 2019
Dana Beebe, above, is shown working on the custom differential for the Switchblade for ground use. The differential takes power from the engine and splits it out to each wheel. This relates to flying to some degree, as we will be eventually using the wheels to get the Switchblade up to take-off speed faster than using the prop alone.
We plan to disconnect the differential from the wheels after take-off so that when you again touch down, the force from the wheel spin-up can’t put stress on engine and transmission. Dana is measuring the bearings after pressing the bearings into the case to check that the shaft going through them can still fit.