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Difference between F28C and 280C?


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What is the difference between the F28C and 280C...around the 1978 model years? Also is there a source for information on the Enstroms, an Enstrom club, information website? I have heard nothing but good things about the helicopters and am looking to purchase one in the 65 to 85 thousand dollar range. Thanks
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Mechanically the F28 and the 280C are the same. The 280C was given a more streamlined nose and a different tail design to make it faster. The 280C cabin is a little less roomy than the F28 due to the narrower nose and the vertical fin positioning and size on the 280C can sometimes cause a very slight yawing in flight. It is my understanding that the 280F models were given the same tail design as the F28 to take care of this problem.

   I owned a 280C model for three years and they are great helicopters; but they are very expensive to operate compared to other piston helicopters. Make sure before you buy one that you have an Enstrom service center or an A&P with Enstrom experience nearby. This will save you a lot of frustration (and money) down the road.

    I would be very carefull buying an Enstrom in the price range you mentioned I sold mine six years ago in excellent condition with a low time engine and mid to high time gearboxes for $90,000. I'm sure an equivalent helicopter in todays market would bring $20,000 to $30,000 more.

  If you have any more questions e-mail me and I will answer them the best I can.

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Hi nj,

 

I operate a '75 28A in the UK which was around the same cost as you are contemplating. You wouldn't get a C for that money here. If you do spend that little money on one be prepared to spend quite a lot on renovation as  it is likely to be 'well used'. I spent about £20K on mine to make it right. It has been very reliable for three years and needed almost no out of sync maintenance. I take the position that with an aircraft of this age, if there is any doubt about a componant, change it. It is a pleasure to own and fly and I enjoy lavishing care and money on it. If you take that attitude you wont go wrong. Dont buy an old one to do it on the cheap. That doesnt work.

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