APRIL 2, 2007
K-500 becomes K-650 (Honeywell turbine powered Sherpa) Upgraded
in Gross weight and Honeywell (formerly Garret) power
At
present the Company is in the process of producing 12, Honeywell Powered
K-650, 8-place kits that will be completed under the builder assist
program at the Scappoose, Oregon facility. The estimated gross weight
of the new K650 has been increased to 6500 pounds. The new K650 kit
incorporates the use of a completely new designed wing air foil and
aileron that was displayed at the 2006 Oshkosh event. The new wing has
a fuel storage capacity of 350 gallons of Jet fuel that can effectively
allow 8 hours of flight with the proper power settings. Flight tests
of the new wing have demonstrated spectacular performance figures with
an amazing ability to fly in level flight at extremely slow speeds without
the use of vortex generators or other air foil altering attachments.
The great news is that the cruise speed is expected to increase as well.
The
decision to switch to a Honeywell turbine engine was prompted by the
Honeywell's excellent fuel efficiency and ability to provide instant
power when needed with Honeywell's direct drive power train design.
Originally
it was speculated that the 8-place piston version, K300/C400 and K-500,
would be built so that the Recip powered engine version would be interchangeable
with a Walter or Pratt turbine engine. Subsequent engineering studies
revealed that both the wing and fuselage required significant structural
changes to meet the new targeted gross weight. As a result a complete
redesign of the plans and construction fixtures was undertaken. The
loss of time was regrettable but the improved new Sherpa will be well
worth the wait.
The
company is planning to display the new airframe at the upcoming EAA
fly in at Oshkosh. A new video showing the new wing in action will be
made available by the end of May 2007. Of special note are the many
improvements in construction design and corrosion resistant treated
components.