Finally got there.  After the first few 5 second aborted runs correcting the inevitable half dozen 'oops' items (missing plug in unused oil injection passage, etc, etc, etc.) the engine ran fine with no surprises.   There is very little to be learned on a first engine run, it is mainly a ceremonial occasion.  The prop is not on so didn't get to hear what it sounds like under load but the exhaust note is much more mellow at idle than PP exhaust, probably even better than my first impression because this was inside the hangar which amplifies exhaust noise (a lot).

 

The biggest difference was something that did not occur to me until I was walking upstairs after the last engine run of the 'day' (it was 1:30 AM).  I had run the engine inside the hangar with the door closed for several minutes without even noticing much exhaust smell.   I couldn't run my earlier rotaries for more than 30 seconds before my eyes would start watering.   The Renesis must be an order of magnitude cleaner in the exhaust department.

 

Now if these darn hurricanes will un-ass the area, I will flight test this thing.

 

Tracy