Hi All -

I too have been following Theilert since late 2001. Here's what I know:

The Centurion 4.0 is a V8 not a six cylinder.

The base engines are Mercedes.

TCM doesn't make a liquid cooled 550, only a 520.

Theilert had expected to have a flying prototype by the end of 2002. So far
as I know the 4.0 engine hasn't left the test stand.

Theilert is not planning to sell any uncertificated engines. Their
representative told me that since they have German aviation authority
approval, getting FAA approval would be a simple matter. WRONG. Theilert is
painfully finding out it is not so simple. At their request I sent them
information about others who had modifications and alterations performed in
Europe (typically on private turbine aircraft) and the resultant headaches
when those aircraft returned to the U.S. Since I sent them the info I
haven't heard a peep from them.

I suspect they will eventually succeed in gaining FAA approval but given the
larger market outside the U.S. they may not put much effort into it. On the
other hand Diamond may pressure them to proceed. Their initial sales plans
call for selling the first 100 or so units in Europe to allow close
monitoring of engines in service.

I think Theilert or Diamond (with their new diesel twin) will have some kind
of representation at Sun 'n Fun this year.

If you look at what they've already done in terms of putting a 1.7L engine
(135hp) into a Piper Warrior (PA28-161) and getting performance equal to or
better than the stock Lycoming O-360 (160hp) then a little quick math
suggests that the thrust from a 310hp diesel might be about equal to the
thrust of  370hp in gasoline. Now THAT would be way cool.

I do hope that succeed in building a viable engine for our Lancair four
place aircraft. Time will tell.

Ted Stanley