Since I am likely about to replace my apex seals, at least in my rear rotor, I was surfing around the net looking at options regarding apex seals, O-rings, gaskets etc. The reality is, I will probably use Tracy's seals, however, while on Mazdatrix looking
at stuff, I once again noticed the ceramic apex seals available there and their $300.00 price for EACH one, thus costing $1800.00 for a set. YIKES. I am pretty certain we have all looked at these and wondered about them. Personally I pretty much dismissed
them as not enough of a balance for what ya get. Then I realized that I am not really certain what that $1800 buys.
Also, I noticed the steel apex seals and the carbon. What, in a nutshell, are the differences? Are we paying more for negligible improvement or just a difference? While I understand we want solid reliability for our aviation use I want to make those choices
based on knowledge and not speculation. Or, the "it is more expensive so it must be better" way of thinking...and I gotta spend more to get the best in my airplane.... Dollars does not always equal reliable, best, safe etc...otherwise
we would likely not be choosing to try to use the rotary.
On a related note, since Apex seals for rotaries is a very limited market, how many companies can actually make seals. I wonder since Mazdatrix sells each seal for $300.00. However, Red Tail Racing sells a complete set
with springs for only $500.00. http://www.redtail-racing.com/
Red Tail states they have successfully used the seals in bridge ported applications in race applications. They say the seals for made for the Mazda in industrial commercial use...I believe for natural gas applications.
No, I do not intend to jump on the cheap ceramic seal wagon, however, with such a limited market it makes me wonder who make the seals Mazdatrix sells and the ones sold by Red Tail. Like some alternators that are used in both cars and planes
coming off the same assemble line, but with a significant price difference, I am curious about various pedigrees.
I mentioned this a while back on the other list, but, IIRC, it got lost in the theory.
I am wanting to expand my knowledge base so ya'll's opinions are sought.
Thanks guys and gals.
Chris Barber
Houston