Mike,
I have several years of real world experience with a 1997 Geo Metro with a 1.3L engine.
This is a very robust engine.
I have found that the engine develops its best torque between 1500-2500 RPM with the sweet spot being about 2000.
This engine would be a great candidate for a direct drive prop in you are only looking for around 50 HP.
The 1.3L is rated from the factory at 70 HP at peak RPM but I would not recommend running it at that rate for any length of time because it would reduce its reliability.
If I were to use this engine in an aircraft configuration I would set it up to cruise in the
2500-3500 RPM range.
The engine can hum along at this rate pulling a 2000 lb vehicle all day provided if has adequate cooling.
If you can cruise at 65MPH or faster at ~3000RPM you will be getting about 45MPG.
This is where this engine really shines.
You won't find too many engines that will operate in cruise at a bit over 1 gallon/hour.
Good luck with your project and keep us posted.
Jim
--- On Wed, 5/6/09, Mike Fontenot <mikef@apexconsultingservices.com> wrote:
From: Mike Fontenot <mikef@apexconsultingservices.com>
Subject: [FlyRotary] Re: Initial Engine start
To: "Rotary motors in aircraft" <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>
Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2009, 4:35 PM
Jim,
The engine has a PSRU attached, approx 2.5:1 reduction to a 3 bladed Koolprop. Engine (1999 GEO/Suzuki G13BB - 4 cylinder 1.3L) reportedly gives 80 to 85 HP in my configuration. Weight wet is around 210 lb.
--
Mike
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Mike Fontenot
Apex Consulting & Services LLC
Lakewood, Colorado
303 / 731-6645
mikef AT apexconsultingservices DOT com
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