I am very saddened by the demise of Mistral. I believe that there is a good market for a sound Rotary engine conversion. George, I AM listening. In fact I have been researching some net techniques that may make several "wish list" parts possible. First the basics though. We intend to make a good p-port conversion with no epoxy and proper seals on the port insert. (O-rings) The lightweight sideplates/end-housings in steel. But first I need to make a comment that I believe is CRITICAL to success. This is a comment that is the very essence of the reason why many of these ventures fail. Even ones with very good products like Mistral.
The comment is that anyone producing a new or conversion technology engine must absolutely expect it to sell for LESS than a Lycoming or Continental, otherwise there is no REASONABLE EXPECTATION that people will buy it. Some people might be enticed by a new or better technology, but never enough people to make the venture a success. My best estimate is that you will need to be profitable at a price of about 1/2 that of certified aircraft engines.
-----Original Message-----
From: George Lendich <lendich@aanet.com.au>
To: Rotary motors in aircraft <flyrotary@lancaironline.net>
Sent: Thu, Jun 10, 2010 2:54 pm
Subject: [FlyRotary] Re: Not surprised, but still disappointing...Mistral dimise
Now that is bad, not that I could afford Mistral parts
IF they were available, but the exposure of a commercially available certified rotary, would do the a great deal of good, for the rest of us wanting to see further development of the rotary in Aviation.
I guess we will have to rely on people like Bill Jepson and his partner to come up with the goods.
I have suggested to Bill that possibly the rotor weight could be reduced by using the oven brazed technology and chrome molley.
I also believe that a bellhousing could be done in the same way and have it designed to be the engine mount as well - are you listening Bill?
I wish I had an understanding of the processes 10 years ago, when Bill and I started communicating.
George (down under)