Sender: <marv@lancaironline.net> (Marvin Kaye)
To: lml
Date: Sun, 19 Jan 2003 19:19:47 -0500
Message-ID: <redirect-1992843@logan.com>
From: Newlan2dl@aol.com
Subject: Re: [LML] Theilert Centurion 4.0 Engines For Lancairs?
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Hi Valen

I haven't seen the Thielert engine but I have flown in the SMA engine powered 
C182 and have some data that is pertinent.  One is that so far, all of the 
diesel powered planes will be turbo'd (great news!) but if you have an engine 
out above 15,000', they can't restart if they get cold.  Remember that they 
are compression ignition systems and without enough air to compress at higher 
altitude, no ignition.  All are working on solutions so don't be too worried 
yet.  The other thing (at least told to me by SMA), is that they require a 
LOT more air to cool them than do gasoline engines.  The C!82 had a new LARGE 
intake that was BUTT UGLY!!!  It doubled the intake size and if this has to 
be done on the gorgeous lines of my Lancair, I'll take gasoline.  But this 
too may be solved elsewhere.

On the plus side, it was no noisier inside than the typical Witchita Spam can 
and outside with a 2200 RPM rotational speed, the prop was quieter and more 
efficient...once the correct prop was tweeked.  Note that a new prop will 
have to be designed for it because the lower RPM and superior efficiencies 
won't be realized until the correct prop is on it.

All the stuff you mentioned is correct.  I did some calculations 
extrapolatiing given data from the HP and speed for the ES and Super ES and 
given HP reduction at altitude.  If the turbo is capable of giving 300 HP at 
10,000' (an increase of 34% over the IO-550), the plane should realize just 
under a 10% increase in speed.  That is it should cruise at almost 210 kts.  
The range at economy cruise should be close to 2000 miles with extended range 
tanks.  Of course you also need to consider that Jet A is much heavier than 
gasoline so you may loose some payload with full tanks.

Dan Newland
Super ES