|
|
Here's what I wrote.I was asked to keep the comments short:
Top Seven Reasons to
Consider an Automobile Conversion
- Cost to install. When compared to the cost of a new aircraft
engine, a fully installed and properly functioning automobile engine can
run 25% to 50% of its certified counterpart when compared new-to-new.
- Cost to rebuild. When rebuilding an auto conversion, it can
typically be brought to zero-time with all new parts for what a used yellow-tagged
aircraft crankshaft costs, that’s if your core is serviceable.
- Cost to operate. Most auto conversions can be operated on automobile
fuel, cutting the per-gallon cost nearly in half. Modern auto conversions
have tight tolerances eliminating the need to add oil between changes.
- Cost to maintain. Aircraft spark plugs range from $26 to $60
each. Automobile plugs are one tenth of that and typically require half as
many. The same can be said for virtually every maintenance item.
- Convenience. Nearly every part you might need to repair or maintain
your auto conversion can be purchased from any number of suppliers in your
home town, even on Sunday, or are a short drive from what ever airport you might have landed at.
- Smoothness. Virtually every auto conversion is noticeably smoother
than its aviation counterpart, reducing fatigue on components and
occupants.
- Because you can. Why are we building an airplane in the first
place? If all you are after is the performance offered by homebuilt
aircraft, why not just buy one second hand? Most of us build because we
want to build. There’s a great amount of satisfaction that stems from
standing back and saying, “I built that.” The same applies for an
automobile engine conversion, especially if it’s never been done before.
And remember, there are a lot of experimental aircraft that
were designed (and proven) from the beginning to use an auto conversion, so
many of the points for a certified
engine aren't relevant, and many of the reasons against an auto conversion also
apply to those who would consider installing an aircraft powerplant where an
auto conversion is specified.
|
|