Mailing List flyrotary@lancaironline.net Message #35400
From: Bob White <rlwhite@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [FlyRotary] Re: sensors
Date: Fri, 9 Feb 2007 21:51:26 -0700
To: Rotary motors in aircraft <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>
On Fri, 9 Feb 2007 20:21:29 -0800
"Todd Bartrim" <bartrim@gmail.com> wrote:

.  I did connect the oil level sensor in the pan to an LED
> on the panel.  I sort of assume that if it ever comes on I will need to
> replace the engine.  :-)
> > Bob W.
> Hi Bob;
I did the same thing and have had it come on a few times. I was
originally using the stock oil injection configuration from the engine sump,
but I also ran the oil sump vent to the air filter housing. The negative
pressure seemed to draw of a lot of oil mist (probably kept my turbo
compressor well lubricated) and this combined with the oil injection to have
high oil consumption. I did a few flights in excess of 4 hours and near the
end of these flights my low-oil LED would begin to flicker in some
attitudes. On one of the last of these extended flights the light was on
steady by the time I landed (by this time I'd realized that I had a
comfortable reserve... however it was still uncomfortable to have the light
on). IIRC, it was only 2 litres low when the light is on steady. When you do your next oil change, you should leave the power on to
power this warning, then have an assistant let you know when it comes on, as
you slowly drain the oil, then drain the remaining oil into a measuring
container.

S. Todd Bartrim
C-FSTB
Turbo 13B RV9
http://www3.telus.net/haywire/RV-9/C-FSTB.htm
http://members.cox.net/rogersda/rotary/configs.htm#C-FSTB




That's a good idea Todd.  I am glad to hear that the oil isn't so low
that the engine self destructs if the light comes on.  I do know from
adding oil that it takes a little time for the oil to actuate the
float.  I added a quart and the light was still on, but after a short
delay, the light went out.  So I think the "slowly" part is important.
So far I haven't run the vent tube to anything.  It's just open to the
atmosphere.  I haven't seen any oily residue in that area.

I have a Jerry Hey oil pan for use when I redo my motor mount so I will
be loosing that functionality one of these days anyway.

Bob W.

--
N93BD - Rotary Powered BD-4 - http://www.bob-white.com
First Flight:  11/23/2006 7:50AM - 2.4 Hours Total Time
Cables for your rotary installation - http://www.roblinphoto.com/shop/
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